Partick Thistle triumph over Ayr United
Partick Thistle edged Ayr United 2-1 in a keenly contested clash that kept the outcome in doubt until the final whistle. Goals from Logan Chalmers and Alex Samuel gave the hosts a commanding lead, with Curtis Main pulling one back late on to set up a tense finish at Firhill.
First-half action
The match opened at a high tempo as both sides looked to stamp their authority early. Thistle took the initiative, pressing high and forcing Ayr into several defensive errors. A well-worked move on the right culminated in Chalmers drilling a precise strike past the Ayr keeper to put the home side ahead. The goal was a testament to Thistle’s increasing chemistry under Mark Wilson, as the midfielders linked with the in-form forward line to create chances consistently.
Second-half surge and late drama
Ayr United regrouped at the interval and emerged with renewed vigor. They found their equaliser just after the hour mark through a composed finish from Curtis Main, which lifted the visitors and injected life into what had been a tight affair. The goal sparked a frantic spell, with both sides trading chances as the clock ticked down.
Thistle responded positively, and their perseverance paid off when Alex Samuel grabbed the decisive moment, firing home from the edge of the box to restore the lead. The strike showcased Samuel’s clinical instinct in front of goal, sealing what could prove to be a pivotal three points in a tight league race.
Key moments
- Chalmers opens the scoring with a low drive after a well-timed pass into the box.
- Main’s equaliser arrives from close range following a quick counter in the 60th minute.
- Samuel’s late winner cements Thistle’s advantage and dampens Ayr’s hopes of a late comeback.
Post-match thoughts
For Partick Thistle, the victory strengthens their position in the league table and adds momentum to their campaign at Firhill. Manager Mark Wilson will be encouraged by the level of control shown in midfield and the resilience demonstrated by the defense after going behind. Ayr United, meanwhile, can take positives from a competitive display that kept them in contention for most of the match, but the decisive moments went the hosts’ way.
What it means for the race
This result tightens the battle at the top of the division, with Thistle collecting valuable points against a direct rival. Both teams will be back in action soon, and this clash may be remembered for the tension it produced in the closing stages as visitors pressed for an equaliser.
