The second match on the sunny Sunday finals day was to prove a treat. Both sides brought a sizable and enthusiastic backing to Ochilview Park, which added excitement to the occasion and helped to keep this reporter on the edge of his seat.

 

In a game of two polar opposite halves, the gritty refusal from both sides to quit highlights the potential character building rewards of football on young players. The first half was the better half for Torrance, who were able to settle into their rhythm much quicker and take a 2-0 lead over the Eastend Colts.

 

The second half saw a complete turnaround from the Colts who were able to create an effective barrier in midfield, which allowed Torrance few chances to add to their goal tally. More importantly their attacking potential came through, which saw them eventually take a one goal lead. This finally tally of 3-2 is an adequate reflection of a game which appeared one-sided at times but was, in reality, a hard won effort.

 

After a tentative start in which both sides struggled to find their rhythm, Torrance took the lead after a superb setup by Sonny Campbell put Jordan Greenhill through for the opening goal.

 

As the half progressed Torrance were able to put together the better passing moves on the field. Their play was rewarded by a second goal, this time coming from some persistent play on the left by Campbell who then slotted it through. However, the final moments of the half would be a preview of what was to come.

 

The final decisive play of the half saw Colts striker Kian Donaghy score from a precise right side cross. The score might have been level were it not for several saves from Torrance goalkeeper Fraser Trearty.

From the start of the second half the Colts kept up the attacking momentum with Torrance receiving little breathing space.

 

The equaliser came as Donaghy scored his second goal, an accurate slot into the bottom right hand corner with three defenders closing on him.

 

The comeback was finally completed by the Colts as captain Lee Singleton scored with a powerful header from a corner.

 

Their lead could have been extended were it not due to an offside call and a continued display of confident goalkeeping from Fraser Trearty, who made four stops in the remainder of the match.

 

Although Torrance were able to regain some of the offensive momentum shown in the first half, they could not breach the Colts tightly knit defence. At the final whistle, amongst the conflicting emotions, there was a sense that both sets of players had been part of a classic match.