Late Broxburn Athletic winner highlights dramatic weekend as West Lothian clubs get season underway

Broxburn Athletic got their season up and running in style thanks to a late winner over Glenrothes.

Athletic, who are the only West Lothian side in this term’s East of Scotland Premier Division, picked up the three points at Albyn Park thanks to Darren Downie’s calm finish in the closing moments to secure a 2-1 win.

Errol Douglas opened the scoring midway through the second-half only for the away side to answer back through Charlie Denton.

But Downie was on-hand to turn one point into three as he slotted past Brandon Conor in the 89th minute.

The Devine brothers were on top form on the opening day as Laurie bagged himself a hat-trick in Blackburn United’s 5-2 home win over Arniston Rangers in the First Division, while Jordan notched a brace as Bathgate Thistle got their Third Division season started with a 4-2 derby win over Fauldhouse United.

Kyle Mooney and an own goal were the other Bathgate scorers while Reece Lowden and Ryan Donnelly were on target for the Hoose.

Coming off back-to-back promotions, Whitburbn made light work of their First Division debut with a commanding 4-1 win over Oakley United at Central Park. Harrison Edwards netted twice for Darren Wilson’s side with Ross Crawford opening his account early on while Andy Johnston also got his name on the scoresheet.

Colin Strickland started his managerial career with a 2-2 draw as Armadale Thistle were held at home to Edinburgh South in the Second Division with Robbie Feeney and Chris Donnelly the Dale scorers.

Kevin Kalala netted the only goal as Harthill Royal started their season with a remarkable East of Scotland Qualifying Cup upset, downing Edinburgh University - four leagues above the Royal - 1-0 at Gibbshill Park.

In the East of Scotland Third Division,