Connor Smith opened his Airdrieonians account with a hat-trick in a 7-1 demolition of Berwick Rangers in the KDM Evolution Trophy. The emphatic win on Saturday at the Albert Bartlett Stadium secured the Diamonds' place in the knockout round and extended their recent goal spree to 13 in two matches.
Ewan Simpson and Cole McKinnon struck early, both set up by Lewis Gibson, to put Airdrieonians two goals ahead inside nine minutes. Smith added the third just before half-time, and Gavin Gallagher made it four shortly after the restart. Berwick's Michael Mbewe pulled one back on 56 minutes, but Airdrieonians finished with a flurry. Kian Taylor scored on 79 minutes before Smith completed his treble with goals at 80 and 82 minutes, both assisted by Berwick's Matty Yates.
Selection and form
Manager Rhys McCabe made four changes from the previous outing, with Jamie Sneddon, Dylan MacDonald, McKinnon and Smith replacing Ruairidh Adams, Craig Ross, Declan Gallagher and AJ Bridge. Ross and Evan Easton missed out with training ground knocks. The victory follows a 6-1 win over Bonnyrigg Rose, giving Airdrieonians two wins in their last five matches overall. The team's recent scoring run now stands at 13 goals in just two games.
He added that the team's focus on quick starts was evident from the opening goal in the 5th minute.
The result eliminated Berwick Rangers from the competition and leaves Airdrieonians looking ahead to their next League One fixture. They host Montrose at the Excelsior Stadium on Saturday, 3 October. Check the latest squad availability on our injuries page before the match.
The report in full is at Berwick Rangers Football Club
The club's official match data confirms Connor Smith's hat-trick included a goal in the 44th minute. Gavin Gallagher scored in the 53rd minute. The 7-1 win over Berwick Rangers on September 26 is the team's second victory in their last five matches. Their recent form is two wins and three losses from the last five.
