Mid Calder Blacks 9 vs 1 Livingston Whites

Mid Calder Blacks welcomed Livingston Whites to James Young High School on 20 February 2026 for a 7-a-side friendly match that kicked off promptly at 6:00pm. The match lasted 50 minutes plus added time, with Mid Calder Blacks emphatically securing a 9-1 victory over their visitors.

Mid Calder Blacks lined up in a 2-3-1 formation, deploying two central defenders, three midfielders across the right, centre and left, and a lone striker up front. Harvey Imarhiagbe took his place between the sticks as goalkeeper, with Caleb Reid and Oscar Ramsay anchoring the defence centrally. The midfield trio consisted of Caileb Lewis on the right, Lockie Wilson centrally, and Ruaridh Lamont on the left, tasked with both defensive duties and supporting the attack. Leading the line was striker Amir Darwish, expected to convert chances created by the midfield. Ben Purcell was named as the substitute for the Blacks.

From the outset, Mid Calder Blacks imposed their rhythm on the game, utilising their midfield strength to dominate possession and create numerous chances. The two central defenders, Reid and Ramsay, provided a solid foundation at the back, effectively neutralising any threat from Livingston Whites’ forwards.

Caileb Lewis, operating on the right midfield, was particularly influential throughout the match, combining defensive work with incisive forward runs and key passes. His performance earned him the player of the match accolade, reflecting his pivotal role in Mid Calder Blacks’ attacking and defensive phases.

Lockie Wilson and Ruaridh Lamont complemented Lewis well, maintaining control in the middle of the park and linking play between defence and attack. Their work rate and vision allowed Amir Darwish to receive service in dangerous areas, where he was clinical in front of goal.

The solitary striker, Darwish, capitalised on the supply from the midfield, contributing significantly to the impressive tally of nine goals. The fluidity of the 2-3-1 formation was evident as the midfielders frequently supported the striker, creating an overwhelming offensive presence.

At half-time, with the scoreline already heavily in favour of Mid Calder Blacks, the team maintained their intensity and focus. The defensive duo of Reid and Ramsay continued to thwart Livingston Whites’ limited attacking efforts, allowing only a single goal against their side.

The second half saw Mid Calder Blacks continue to press and extend their lead, with the midfield trio orchestrating play and the striker finishing chances with composure. The substitute, Ben Purcell, was available to provide fresh legs if required, though the starting seven largely controlled the game from start to finish.

Overall, Mid Calder Blacks delivered a commanding performance in this friendly encounter, demonstrating effective teamwork, tactical discipline, and clinical finishing. Their 9-1 victory over Livingston Whites at James Young High School was a comprehensive display of their superiority on the night.