Dalkeith Thistle FC 1-2 Haddington Athletic
Scottish Cup, Saturday 22 August 2026

Haddington Athletic came from behind to edge a competitive Scottish Cup first-round tie against a stubborn Dalkeith Thistle side at King’s Park. The East of Scotland League visitors showed their quality in the second half to overturn an early deficit and book their place in the next round.

Dalkeith, who started brightly on home soil, took a deserved lead midway through the first half when a corner was only half-cleared and the ball was forced home from close range. The goal lifted the home support, but Haddington responded well and began to dominate possession without finding the equaliser before the interval.

Second-half turnaround

The visitors came out with renewed purpose after the break. Their pressure finally told when a well-worked move down the right flank ended with a composed finish across goal. With extra time looming, Haddington found a winner late on, converting from the penalty spot after a handball in the box. The final whistle confirmed a 2-1 away victory and sent the Haddington players through to the next stage of the competition.

For Dalkeith Thistle, it was a gallant effort against higher-level opposition, but they will rue missed chances in the first half. Haddington Athletic, meanwhile, will take confidence from their resilient display as the Scottish Cup campaign continues.