Connor's class helps Elgin go top
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ST Johnstone loan signing Connor McLaren was Elgin City’s star turn in Saturday’s 4-1 win against Berwick Rangers.
The 18-year-old scored the opener in his home debut as City went back to the top of League 2.
City’s assistant boss Gavin Price believes McLaren has what it takes to thrill the Borough Briggs support.
“He will be another crowd pleaser for the Elgin City fans,” Price said. “It’s an entertainment business as well and I’m sure they are enjoying watching players like that.
“He’s another one from St Johnstone who’s performing well, along with the other loanees Mark (Hurst) and Liam (Gordon) who did well today.
“But Connor stole the show with the opening goal and I thought he put in a few really good crosses and looked very composed and good on the ball.”
McLaren won the sponsors' man of the match for his display on City's right side of midfield.
Elgin’s sparkling second half performance won the day, a return to form after two defeats and a fortunate win in their last three league outings.
Berwick were on top in the first half hour, hitting the post through Blair Henderson before McLaren nodded the home side in front from a Matthew Cooper cross.
McLaren later admitted he seldom scores headed goals so his first Elgin strike was a real collectors’ item.
City’s lead lasted just five minutes as Berwick full back Ewan McNeil netted with a brilliant 35 yard strike.
But the Black and Whites came good after the break, helped by two goals in a four minute spell.
A Ross Drummond own goal from a Brian Cameron shot made it 2-1 on 52 minutes and Craig Gunn’s seventh of the season quickly added to the home lead.
City boss Jim Weir handed a debut to new signing Thomas Reilly as a second half sub and he was involved in the move which led to Mark Nicolson curling in a sweet 20 yarder for the game’s final goal.
The win put Elgin top ahead of Clyde on goal difference, and they are now in the road in their next two games at Queen’s Park and Annan.
