Tranent Juniors vs Stirling Albion

Tranent, managed by Robbie Horn, took the lead in the 25th minute through right-back Guy McGarry. The defender found the net to put the Lowland League side ahead at Foresters Park.

Five minutes later, new signing Tiwi Daramola doubled the advantage with a spectacular strike from distance. Tranent FC described it on social media as "What. A. Strike!" — a rocket that left the Stirling Albion goalkeeper with no chance.

That 2-0 scoreline held through to half-time. Despite Stirling Albion enjoying more possession in the second period, according to match observer accounts, they failed to create clear-cut chances, and Tranent's defence held firm to secure a clean sheet in their first outing of the summer.

Daramola's 30th-minute goal effectively ended the contest. With Tranent already 1-0 up from McGarry's opener, the striker's long-range strike — the second goal in a five-minute burst — gave the hosts a commanding two-goal cushion before half-time. Stirling Albion, managed by former Scotland international Steven Whittaker, never recovered.

• Guy McGarry — Scored the opening goal and was named Sponsors Man of the Match by Tranent FC. The right-back also contributed to a clean sheet at the other end.
• Tiwi Daramola — The new signing announced his arrival with a stunning long-range strike, doubling Tranent's lead in emphatic fashion.
• Alex Glasgow — Made his first appearance for Tranent, a milestone moment for the young player as the Belters secured the win.

Player of the Match: Guy McGarry (Tranent Juniors)

The match was defined by efficiency in front of goal. Tranent scored with both of their notable first-half efforts, while Stirling Albion — despite enjoying spells of possession, particularly in the second half — failed to test the home goalkeeper meaningfully. The 0-0 second half told the story of a Stirling side lacking sharpness in the final third, a common theme in early pre-season. Tranent's clean sheet against a team from a division above them (League Two vs Lowland League) was the standout defensive takeaway.

For Tranent, it is the perfect start to pre-season under Robbie Horn. The Belters have six more scheduled friendlies ahead of the 2026/27 Lowland League campaign, with the result showing they can compete with full-time SPFL opposition.

For Stirling Albion, this was their final pre-season warm-up before competitive action begins. The Binos face Dundee United at Forthbank in the Premier Sports Cup Group E — a match that will be broadcast live on Premier Sports. Whittaker will want to see more attacking incision from his side when the real action starts.

A composed and professional pre-season performance from Tranent, who took their chances clinically and defended resolutely. Stirling Albion will be unconcerned by the result — pre-season fitness is the priority — but Whittaker's side will need to show more attacking invention when the Premier Sports Cup campaign begins.