Stenhousemuir delivered a powerful second-half performance to beat Berwick Rangers 4-1 in the Scottish Bells Challenge Cup, turning a competitive cup tie at Ochilview Park into a clear and deserved victory. The home side’s sharper finishing and greater intensity after the break proved decisive, sending them into the next round with confidence and a welcome attacking statement.

Match overview

The contest began with Berwick Rangers looking organised and compact, determined to frustrate a Stenhousemuir side eager to impose itself in front of its own supporters. Stenhousemuir controlled most of the early possession, moving the ball quickly through midfield and looking to stretch the visitors with width. The breakthrough arrived midway through the first half when Ross MacLean found space on the edge of the box and guided a low effort into the corner.

Berwick responded well and equalised before the interval through Jamie Stevenson, whose close-range finish capped a rare but well-executed attacking move. That goal gave the visitors something to protect, but it also seemed to sharpen Stenhousemuir’s sense of urgency. The second half was a different story altogether, with the home team raising the tempo and repeatedly finding gaps in the Berwick defence.

Key moments

• 18th minute: Ross MacLean opens the scoring for Stenhousemuir with a composed finish from the edge of the area.
• 34th minute: Berwick Rangers equalise through Jamie Stevenson after a quick break and a neat exchange in the final third.
• 52nd minute: Euan O’Reilly restores Stenhousemuir’s lead, converting a cut-back after a driving run down the right.
• 67th minute: Kieran Anderson makes it 3-1 with a header from a well-delivered corner.
• 84th minute: Matty Yates seals the win, finishing calmly after being played through on goal.

Tactical story

Stenhousemuir’s victory was built on a purposeful high press and intelligent use of the flanks. In the first half, Berwick’s defensive shape held firm for long spells, but the home side’s willingness to switch play and attack the back post created repeated problems. After the interval, Stenhousemuir pushed its full-backs higher and committed more bodies into the box, forcing Berwick into hurried clearances and defensive errors.

Berwick Rangers had moments of promise on the counter-attack, particularly in the first half, but the visitors struggled to sustain pressure once Stenhousemuir increased the pace of the game. The midfield battle tilted decisively in the home team’s favour after the break, and the fourth goal was a fitting reward for a side that kept creating chances until the final whistle.

Standout players

Ross MacLean was the central figure for Stenhousemuir, combining leadership with a constant attacking threat. His opening goal settled the home side, and his movement between the lines repeatedly pulled Berwick’s midfield out of position. Kieran Anderson also made a significant impact from midfield, adding energy and a goal, while Matty Yates capped a lively display with the fourth goal.

For Berwick Rangers, Jamie Stevenson took his equaliser well and worked tirelessly in difficult circumstances. Goalkeeper Ryan Marshall made several saves to keep the scoreline respectable, but the visitors were ultimately overwhelmed by Stenhousemuir’s second-half surge.

Season impact

The 4-1 result gives Stenhousemuir momentum in the Scottish Bells Challenge Cup and reinforces the belief that the squad can compete on multiple fronts. For Berwick Rangers, the defeat is a reminder of the fine margins in cup football, especially against opponents capable of raising their level after half-time. Stenhousemuir now look forward to the next round with attacking confidence, while Berwick will turn their attention back to league form and the task of responding quickly.