YFS
South West Region Archive (508)
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View Photo Gallery The game kicked off under a glorious Ayrshire sun and the first ten minutes showed a sign of things to come as proceedings remained tight and fairly even. The away side had the first real sight of goal when Jamie Hamilton came close from inside the six yard box following a cross from the right, but the Galston defence snuffed out the danger. Clear cut chances were rare throughout the first half as both teams struggled to cut open their opponent's defences. Bonnyton's Blair Kennedy was busy man-marking Galston's skillful playmaker Kieran Boylan and on Galston's right wing Greg Hampshire was looking ever-ready to exploit any laziness or drop in concentration from Thistle full back Lewis McCabe. Likewise, Galston's towering centre half Craig Roney was winning the tussle between himself and Hamilton after the scare in the opening exchanges. Bonnyton had enjoyed more possession than Galston in the opening half hour although both teams had spent the same amount of time in and around their opponent's penalty area, although perhaps Galston were looking more likely to score when the likes of Boylan found time on the ball. Bonnyton's neat passing play was undone however and it was in the right wing area where Hampshire was able to lose his marker and break free down the line. He sprinted towards goal before opening the scoring with a terrific finish that sailed over Lewis Campbell and hit the roof of the net. The winger was subsequently mobbed by his team-mates and with the goal coming so close to half time, Galston were able to hold on and go in at the break 1-0 up. Half Time: Galston YFC 1-0 Bonnyton Thistle There were few chances of note for the next 15 minutes, with the exception of Galston substitute Findlay Holding's driving run and shot which bounced inches wide of Lewis Campbell's goal following a counter atack. Bonnyton continued to have more of the possession but were having trouble making it count as Galston hounded the away side at every turn and hassled their opponents every time they had the ball. Galston knew that if Bonnyton scored not only would the scores be level, but momentum would be with Bonnyton. And despite their pressure, there was nothing any of the home side could do to stop Neilson's hot on 55 minutes. Fortunately for the boys in blue and white however - the woodwork could. Stewart Masterton won the ball 30 yards from the Galston goal and slipped in the attacker on the edge of the area. Neilson freed up some space and shaped to shoot but a slight bobble on the 18-yard line sent his shot higher than expected. It looked like glory for Bonnyton as the coaches rose to celebrate only to see the ball crack off the woodwork and away from danger. The danger wasn't over through for Galston and Masterton and Neilson would team up once more to try and level the tie heading into the last 10 minutes. Masterton picked the ball up infield in similar territory to before and turned his man before laying a through ball into Neilson's path. Neilson advanced into the box and battled with the centre back and the pressure from the defender tamed his left-footed shot which was caught well by the Robertson from seven yards. Galston would make their opponents pay and their cutting edge showed as they extended their lead by two in the next few minutes. In similar fashion to his earlier run, substitute Holding surged his way down the left-hand side before making his way into the box. He beat multiple defenders with ease during the run and he was able to beat Lewis Campbell in goal too, slotting past him from an angle nine yards out. Within a few moments Galston all but sealed the tie with a killer counter-attacking goal. A long ball in behind again found HOlding who advanced into the box and sent a cheeky lob over Campbell and into the path of the on-running Hampshire who volleyed home his second of the day on the line. With only seven minutes left, Bonnyton had it all to do and subsequently put more men up front. However, the switch came too late to cause Galston any real problems despite the away side keeping Galston under the cosh in their own half. When the whistle blew the boys in blue and white were ecstatic as they not only advanced to the next round, but also won their first game of the season. Bonnyton played well and had the mistakes or the chances they made had different outcomes, this could have went the other way. Galston thoroughly deserved their win and their physical standing will serve them well in the nex round along with the talents of Hampshire, Boylan and Holding.
Full Time: Galston YFC 3-0 Bonnyton Thistle
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Ayrshire schools defeat Grange in eight goal thriller
Written by Kyle Brown
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Grange Academy
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Ayrshire Schools FA
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Senior Friendly
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Grange Academy
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27 September 2013
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Author: Kyle Brown
Eight goals, three penalties and the return of a YFS reporter to the playing field ensured that the school friendly between Grange Academy and the Ayrshire School's district won't be a friendly either team will forget in a hurry. The District won by five goals to three, but it was a tight affair throughout.
Of course, said YFS reporter was yours truly. I did not even know I was playing, merely just reporting, but alas, the man in charge Charlie Adams gave me a spot on the bench. Out I went, stripped, with only astro trainers and borrowed shin pads, not to mention my extreme lack of fitness since hanging up my boots! Oh how my teammates would be filled up with confidence!
The game started and Grange went 1-0 up without the District touching the ball! Blaine Swift received the ball from Aaron Clancy and proceeded to run through four men and blast home from outside the area, giving goalkeeper Craig Spiers no chance.
Grange were almost two up less than three minutes later! Scott Cowie picked out wide man Adam Wales who passed past the post when he should have scored. Soon after, the Grange were in again. That man Blaine Swift dribbled through on goal and played a slack pass that eventually went went well wide of its receiver; he should have just pulled the trigger and he would likely have scored. Seconds thereafter, Kyle Shankland - Grange's left back but today switching allegiance - charged forward and Rory Jamieson defended it well, but his back pass was slack, and his goalkeeper Shaun Newman had to be alert to clear. However, the big Goalie was hurt in the process and never recovered, going off at half time.
Grange still looked more likely to score though, and Jamie McNair must have thought he'd bagged a goal when his deflected strike hit the side netting, which did deceive some spectators!
However, the game was very open. Both teams had spells of excellent passing, and then had scrappy play as well. A piece of the latter had Grant Forbes - another Grange player on the District's side - having an excellent strike blocked by Jamieson, and Craig McKenzie blocked the follow up.
Five minutes later, the Grange were 2-0 up. Cowie drove into the box, and was pulled down by Grant Forbes. Clearly, he wanted to help his school out too! Swift stepped up, and was coolness personified with a low pass straight down the middle whilst sending Spiers wide left.
Moments after, Blair McKie - the third and final Grange player on the District - fired wide from a cutback. It looked like it was going to be 2-1, but in the end, it was a poor shot that went well wide. McNair then almost made it 3-1. He ran through two defenders, sent Spiers to the ground and then fired wide. A glaring miss from the winger, but his footwork was to be admired in the build up. It was 2-1 thought moments after. Forbes made amends for himself and after a driving run and shot, and the District number 14 turned the ball in.
As the teams were only playing 35 minutes a half, that brought about half time. It was an entertaining game so far, with the better side leading. It should have been more, as the District had looked shaky, and got their goal against the run of play in the first half as a whole.
Half Time: Grange Academy 2-0 Ayrshire Schools District
Three injuries to the Grange resulted in Sean 'Pablo' Partner and Cammy Elliot and coming on for Craig McKenzie and Aaron Clancy, whilst Craig Spiers played in goals for the Grange in the second half. The Kilmarnock trialist and current Southside number 1 was excellent in the second half, so he'll have done his chances of nailing down the District place no harm.
He made his first save after thirty seconds, saving from Andrew Sibbald in a one on one scenario; although Sibbald was foiled here, the half time substitute changed the game himself, scoring a brace and setting up the fourth goal in the second half, as well as being an all round menace to the Grange defence with his clever runs and pace. The Grange then had the ball in the net moments after. However, in true Martin Atkinson fashion, referee Thomas Alldridge blowing his whistle for a foul on Mikey Stewart too early , even though the striker ran on and lobbed the District keeper superbly.
Probably fresh in the referee's mind, he awarded the Grange their second penalty of the afternoon. Adventurous left back Kieran McMaster ran forward, and his cross struck the outstretched arm of the District defender from close range. It was a penalty in my eyes, despite District protests. Swift, on a hat trick, decided not to take two penalties in one afternoon. He left the responsibility with McNair, and the striker's venomous strike gave the keeper no chance. 3-1 to the Grange.
The District then went up the park and won a penalty of their own, the ball striking Jamieson on the hand. However, unlike the Grange penalty, his hand was at his body and their was nothing he could do about it, so I disagree with that call. With the utmost confidence, Sibbald stepped up and dispatched a well taken penalty, Spiers guessing the correct way but given no chance. 3-2.
The remaining twenty-five minutes saw the game swing significantly. The District went to a 4-3-3 and totally bosses the game. The Grange seem to tire, and looked lost in midfield. Iain Samson, deputising for the awol Mr Adams, changed their formation to a 4-5-1 but it did nothing to help the wave of District attacks, and Stewart was often isolated alone up top, chasing down lost causes whilst the rest of his team were pinned back deep in their own half.
Straight after the penalty, Spiers made two great one on one stops. The first was from Jonathon Pirrie, who looked certain to score, and the next from the Sibbald.
On the 55 minute mark, the District got the equaliser their play deserved. Sibbald expertly taking down a cross before calmly sending Spiers onto the turf and chipping it in, mirroring Amalfitano's goal at Old Trafford for West Brom. It appeared though in the build up, Shaun Laverry had handballed it though, and the Grange on the receiving end of two bad handball decisions.
Right back Laverry hit the post soon after, the adventurous right back storming forward and his cracking effort beat Spiers, but not the frame of the goal.
However, the District were leading with ten minutes to go. A long ball forward from Shankland suddenly had the Grange defence outnumbered by 3:5 and Sibbald's cut back found Jonathon Pirrie who had a tap in.
The District's fifth and final goal came from some criminal defending, from myself included. The ball was needlessly cleared for a throw in, and their was not one but two flick ons not dealt with before the ball came to sibbald, whom I was man marking. He turned well, and somehow snaked a weak cut back to the penalty spot, where number 8 was not tracked and he had all the time in the world to easily slot home. Questions will be asked about the defending of that goal in general, I myself disappointed - even after a slight slip it seems I had done the hard bit and won the goal kick, only for sibbald to just get his left boot to the ball. However, not to worry, this was only a friendly and the Grange had performed well against the best in Ayrshire, with pro youth and three Grange stalwarts in their artillery.
The Grange had one final flurry forward in the dying embers of the game. A neat interchange between myself, Swift and McKenzie resulted in the latter finding th tireless run of McMaster, his would be cross taken away from the head of Stewart by the goalie and as Partner went to follow up the rebound play was pulled back, as - correctly - McMaster had ever just run the ball out of play. And that concluded the action of this thrilling friendly.
Full Time: Grange Academy 3-5 Ayrshire Schools District
A game of two halves, . It was a close affair for the most part, and the Grange must be wondering how they had not won the game by half time. On the other hand, the District had most of the play in the second half, and deserved the win in the end.
What's next for both teams?
Well, I think the Grange will have a good chance of a cup title this year. They will be boosted by the return of McKie, Shankland and Forbes, who helped the District massively today. Moreover, their was no shortage of pro youth in the District's team, so a valiant performance indeed.
The District will also have a good chance at glory this year. They will have to improve on this performance, but as this was the first time they played together (with some boys evidently not knowing others names) this was a great performance. Once this team gel, they will be a formidable opponent to the other Regional School District teams.
Man of the Match: Craig Spiers. The Southside and Kilmarnock keeper was excellent for both teams today. The Kilmarnock Academy pupil also must be applauded for filling in for the injured Shaun Newman and playing for a different school team.
Grange Player of the Match: Blaine Swift. The midfielder was excellent in the first half, and whilst the Grange faded completely in the second, he still showed some good touches. It was a magnificent first goal he scored, and I am left scratching my head as to why he didn't take the penalty to complete his hat trick.
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Galston bag victory against battling Crosshouse
Written by Kyle Brown
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Crosshouse and Galston 2001s served up a five goal thriller at Crosshouse's Lindsay Park. Sam Nelson's fabulous strike from out with the area had Crosshouse 1-0 up inside two minutes, and even after a great save from a penalty by Crosshouse keeper Ross Sharp, Galston won it by four goals to one after some clinical finishing.
Even though Crosshouse scored in the opening two minutes, it was actually Galston who created the first chance - with left midfielder Alasdair Wood (or Woody as he likes to be known) playing through lone striker Ben Wilson whose shot was well held by Sharp. However, the young goalkeeper punted a long ball which deflected into the path of onrushing winger Sam Nelson, and he duly plucked the ball out of the air before unleashing a marvellous strike from just outside the box in off the post - leaving Galston keeper Regan Menzies no chance at all. 1-0 to the home side.
The game was a great affair in the first half, and totally end to end. Only three minutes after Crosshouse opened the scoring, Galston had a great chance to level from the penalty spot. A defence splitting through ball from Lyon Kerr found the excellent Dylan Johnston and the small centre midfielder was pushed down. It probably was a foul, however, as Crosshouse argued, their defender was bigger and it appeared the slight Johnston was merely brushed over.
Wilson stepped up, and blasted it straight down the middle, but Sharp - already diving to his right - somehow got strong hands to the ball and put it over the bar! A wonderful stop by the young goalkeeper.
Crosshouse then had the next chance, Kyle Horner's hopeful long ball finding its way to the goalscorer Nelson, but, in the exact same position he had scored in just eight minutes before, his tame shot was held easily by Menzies.
Menzies’ resulting throw out found its way to Kyle Lennon, and the pacy winger played a great through ball to Wilson but Sharp was quick off his line to smother his second touch just as he was about to pull the trigger.
Galston were beginning to dominate and it looked likely they would score soon. However, Crosshouse’s defence were holding firm so far, and they never looked like crumbling either. It was just a matter of whether Galston could find a breakthrough or not.
Lennon then again created danger by weaving in between a host of defenders and cutting it back expertly, but the ball evaded everyone. However, it was 1-1 just seconds thereafter; Wilson scooped a pass brilliantly to the onrushing Dylan Johnston who beat the offside trap and fired into the bottom left corner from the Penalty Box D.
Galston created a few more chances in a couple of minutes. Declan Murdoch was one on one following a ricochet but a great slide tackle from backtracking Ryan Turkington prevented a certain goal. Kyle Lennon then fired a stinging shot just wide after blasting across the keeper from afar, having Sharp well beat. Then Woody was played in and hit a looping strike just over - with his boot coming flying off in the process!
It was 2-1 just moments after. Lennon received the ball in his own half, and Wilson timed his run perfectly to meet Lennon's pinpoint through ball and the big striker ran on to finish.
The only other action in the first half was Galston captain Jamie Young putting the ball out for a corner under pressure, and from the resulting corner, Ben Collitian managed to kick the corner flag out of his position - rather than the actual ball!
So anyway, 2-1 to Galston and the first half was a real open game. You felt that either team could have won it here, and the next goal was vital.
In truth, the second half was a considerably duller affair. The play stopped being as end to end, and both keeper were not worked that much in the second half; Regan Menzies was practically a spectator. The game was played in the midfield more as both teams tried to push for a winner. In the end Galston defended well enough whilst also getting the two goals that finished the game off.
It didn't start a midfield battle though. A ricochet about the Crosshouse box resulted in Lennon having a snap shot from point blank range, but Sharp's legs were to the rescue. Credit to the small goalie, he had had an excellent game so far.
Owen Ross was next to try his luck, controlling the airborne ball well, and sending a looping shot from thirty yards into the Sharp’s gloves.
It was over fifteen minutes later that the next piece of real action occurred. Galston substitute Luke Ballantine picking the ball up far out, and his tame effort seemed easy enough to defend, but a slight mix up resulted in it going into the back of the net, rather than to safety.
At 3-1 though, the game certainly wasn't stone dead. Galston coaches, players and parents alike were left wondering "Could Crosshouse most a comeback here?” The answer would have been yes, but the game truly did become over as a tie four minutes later.
Crosshouse won a foul ten yards into their half. Galston set an offside trap on the half way line. The bizarre and unorthodox high line looked like it could end in catastrophe, but alas it was obviously well trained upon; Ballantine cleared the loose ball then Declan Murdoch won a fifty-fifty and raced through on goal, side stepping Findlay Cairns superbly before blasting a great finish home.
The game wasn't quite over yet though. First, Lennon's superb cross met Dylan Johnston's head only a few yards out, but it was somehow blocked.
Then a great one-two between Woody and Johnston resulted in the former cracking a drive off the inside of the post.
On the stroke of the final whistle, the superb Lyon Kerr drove in on goal. He opted to go alone and ultimately fired wide when a cutback was on - however, he could argue that his dominant display merited him to go for glory!
So, an entertaining affair ultimately ending with the dominant side mounting a good comeback. However, Crosshouse's valiant effort was to be admired, and had they finished a few more half chances they may have won the game.
Full Time: Crosshouse BC 1-4 Galston YFC
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Hearts remained on track for their second successive 13's SWF Youth Cup final after seeing off a spirited fight from Forfar Farmington Eagles. A first half goal spree saw the Lothians outfit open the scoring through Jennifer Dodds, before Allanis Hutchison and Naomi Welch both scored twice to open up a five goal margin. A resolute Forfar side kept a clean sheet in the second half, but it was Hearts who advanced to the final four of the national cup competition.
A journey that begins in April and ends with a showpiece match at Toryglen in November, the SWF Youth Cup is the pinnacle of the domestic calendar for girls teams across Scotland. Both of these quarter finalists were given a first round bye, putting them straight into the last thirty-two of the competition. Forfar Farmington progressed with a 4-1 victory over Bayside, whereas Hearts edged out Rangers 3-2. Round three again saw Forfar triumph against Fife opposition, 6-3 winners away to East Fife violets. Hearts on the other hand had no problems seeing off FC Kilmarnock by a convincing margin.
The sun shone down on an excellent playing surface at Meadowmill Sports Centre in East Lothian, as the game got underway. Hearts didn't waste much time in taking control of the match, firing a couple of warnings, before taking the lead in the 6th minute. A fantastic turn on the right wing sent Allanis Hutchison clear of her marker. The cross eluded attackers and defenders inside the area, but was met by Jennifer Dodds at the back post, who made no mistake with the finish.
Following the early strike the game developed into a pattern, with Hearts enjoying more of the ball and hitting their visitors with wave after wave of attack. However, Forfar stuck to their defensive guns admirably, mopped things up, and looked dangerous on the counter. The first chance of note for the Angus side came when a speedy break worked the ball to the feet of Chloe Rielly, who cut inside and shot, but couldn't find the power to trouble Lee McColl in the Hearts goal.
Hutchison was having a lot of joy on the wing, causing problems for Forfar with her pace and tricky. Another well executed cross found Naomi Welch, who couldn't steer the ball into the net at the front post. However, a minute later, Hutchison herself drilled the ball into the right hand corner from 15 yards to double her side's advantage.
Five minutes later Hearts were firmly in the driving seat, thanks to goal number three. This time the left wing was the source, as Dodds beat her marker before picking out Welch inside the area. The forward spun her marker expertly before tucking the ball into the bottom left hand corner.
Despite most of their attention being focused on stifling Hearts' attacking prowess, Forfar were still determined to find a way onto the scoresheet themselves. Cali Roberts was the latest to go close, showing fantastic footwork and deception to cut in from the left corner flag and whistle a shot inches past the right hand post. With the half in its latter stages, Hearts went in for the kill. Welch latched onto a through pass, goal side of her marker, and was floored after a tangle of legs - which resulted in the award of a penalty kick. Welch stepped up herself and although Holly Milne was able to block the shot, the Hearts forward followed up and blasted the ball into the net for her second of the match.
One final attack for the girls in maroon lead to the final goal of the half. Another smart finish from Hutchison left Milne with no chance and gave the home side a comfortable lead going into the break.
Half Time: Hearts Girls 5-0 Forfar Farmington Eagles
At the heart of the Forfar resurgence was the defensive display of Jessica McGregor. The centre half was in inspired form - winning tackles, making interceptions and driving her team forward into the Hearts half.
Roberts remained an exciting prospect for Forfar, and possibly their best source of a goal. The skillful forward wasn't shy to shoot either, forcing McColl to pull off a full stretch diving save to prevent the ball from sneaking into the bottom right hand corner.
At the other end, Hearts were still a threat, although Farmington's solid defensive unit were forcing them to try their luck from distance. It was a challenge the Hearts girls relished, with Sophie Mauriello driving a powerful effort narrowly over the crossbar. Welch got in on the act too, executing another exquisite turn, before clipping the bar with a shot which had Milne rooted to the spot.
Another of the second half's star performers was Milne. The Forfar goalkeeper had been given little chance by Hearts in the first half, with one deadly finish after another. However after the break Milne came into her own, commanding her box well and pulling off half a dozen solid saves.
Both sides continued to create chances and battle for every ball until the final whistle, but the clocked ticked away and the second half finished scoreless. It was to Forfar's credit that they stemmed the tide, however the scoreline offered a fair reflection on the match as a whole, with Hearts deserved winners.
Forfar Farmington Eagles return to league action, hoping to finish the season strongly in the SWF East Region's Angus/Dundee section. For Hearts, their dream of a return to Toryglen and retaining the South East league and cup double remains alive. An exciting couple of months lie ahead for the members of the talented team from Edinburgh and the Lothians.
Full Time: Hearts Girls 5-0 Forfar Farmington Eagles
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Glenafton Athletic
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Heston Rovers
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U17 Scottish Youth FA Cup - R1
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Glenafton
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01 September 2013
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Heston Rovers Under 17's travelled to Glenafton in wet and windy conditions on Sunday, competing in their first Scottish Cup tie. Traditionally Dumfries & Galloway YFDA teams rarely enter the national cup competition, so the Dumfries outfit were out to put their league on the map.
The visitors started strongly and came close on many occasions. Glenafton had the first real chance when forced a smart double save from the Heston keeper Ryan Cochrane.
Rovers took the lead shortly after when Fraser Scott pounced on hesitation in the Glenafton defence to poke home from a couple of yards.
Minutes later Craig Campbell scored from inside the box after Fraser Scott's determination kept in an Alex Barron cross.
Half Time: Glenafton Athlertic 0-2 Heston Rovers
After the break the Glenafton keeper could only parry an Alex Barron free kick and Fraser Scott was there to chip the goalkeeper from six yards out.
Glenafton pulled a goal back after a rare mix up in the Heston defence but it was a mere consolation.
Fraser Scott grabbed his third after the Glenafton once again spilled the ball from a free kick, poking the ball home from a yard out.
Minutes later it was 5-1 after good work from Cammie Finnie on the wing and a fine cross found Chris Lumb, who took one touch before finishing neatly into the bottom corner.
With the final whistle approaching, Heston scored goal number six, when Ellis McLachen cheekily converted with a back heel after quick feet and a good cross from Chris Lumb into the centre. This was the final nail in the coffin for Glenafton as they looked deflated and exhausted by an energetic Heston side who ran them ragged for ninety minutes. A well deserved victory for an underrated Heston team.
Full Time: Glenafton Athletic 1-6 Heston Rovers
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Bonnyton Thistle 2002s had their Player of the Year Presentation on Friday 21st June at the Park Hotel, Kilmarnock. 6 lucky stand-outs scooped the main awards but the coaches were keen to ensure everyone involved received recognition; all players were rewarded wih a medal and few kind words at the ceremony.
Coach Liam Dickson introduced the evening with some thankful words towards the players, parents and other coaches before he handed over to his co-coach Kenny Henderson. Henderson spoke of his involvement with the day-to-day runnings of the team and how it has affected him, and the development of the players and the team as a whole and received applause.
Dickson then took over to hand over to Bonnyton supremo Ian Higgins. Before Higgins said a few words in recognition of the efforts of the players and coaches and chiefly the coaches, Dickson referred to one day in May when he contacted Higgins via text;
D: "I sent Ian a text in regard to something totally unrelated to the matter before saying, 'Some of the boys on Twitter have said you're in line for the Man United job. To be fair you've won more trophies than Davie Moyes!'"
Higgins modestly replied: "Mate, I've probably won more trophies than Sir Alex Ferguson".
Higgins then presented all of the medals to all players.
Dickson then handed over to Ross Hume to read out the winners of the Blues awards'. Ben Mitchell - who had played both outfield and in goal over the season - picked up the Supporters' Player of the Year. 'Wing king' Lee MacDonald scooped the Players' Player of the Year while John Sockell won the Player of the Year.
Kenny Henderson read out the winners for the Reds. Mitchell Hill won the Supporters' Player of the Year and Luke Dickson grabbed the Players' Player of the Year by 1 vote - it was still well deserved though. Captain and 'Mr Consistency' Findlay Kerr won the Player of the Year award.
All in all a fantastic evening in recognition of the players' efforts over the year and well rounded-off with a few drinks at the bar. All that awaits now is pre-season and the prospect of 11-a-sides!
Players and parents can still buy copies of the boys' trip to the Bellfield Tournament at the price of £5 with ALL proceeds going to the club. Contact Ryan Rowe: 07450919772 or Kenny Henderson.
Thistle edge Burntisland to boost chances
Written by Rob Wilson/Garry Evans
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View Photo Gallery | Discuss the Match | Buy Exclusive Tournament Souvenir DVD
After their earlier defeat in game one, Tass required a positive result and they managed to grab all three points defeating Burntisland Shipyard 1-0. Yet, in the first half it was Burntisland who appeared stronger and livelier. From 30 yards Ryan Stewart went for goal but his shot went over the bar. |
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Discuss the Match | Buy Photos and Souvenirs
Half Time: Hamiton Academical 3-0 Tass Thistle Full Time: Hamiton Academical 4-0 Tass Thistle
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The KSC girls had to get used to an unfamiliar 9 a side format which showed in their first game when they lost 3-0 to a very strong Levante side. A 1-1 draw with Nimes followed and two commanding wins against Aussonne and Comminges saw them qualify for the latter stages on the Sunday.
Despite controlling their ¼ final against Haute Garonne, the game finished goal-less and the dreaded penalties were required. Two saves from keeper Molly Mackenzie were enough to see the girls through.
The semi final against Toulouse was settled with a Charis Fenney penalty following a trip on Abby Robinson, a deserved result after some fine possession play which kept the French side camped in their own half.
The final was a rematch with Levante who had sailed through the tournament without losing a single goal. KSC started well and created two clear chances but the Levante goalkeeper showed why she had kept so many clean sheets with some great saves. Deadlock was broken when Jordan Mclintock nodded home from a corner kick to put KSC ahead. Levante then upped their game and pressed KSC into their own half, they put plenty of pressure on the KSC back line but the girls stood fast denying the Spanish side any clear chances. The final whistle finally arrived and the celebrations started.
KSC's goalscorers were: Abby Robinson – 4, Jordan Mclintock – 4, Paige Henry – 4 and Charis Fenney – 3. Mclintock was also awarded a trophy for Best Attacker of Tournament.
Fantastic effort from all concerned at KSC. Special thanks to Agnes and the team at St Simon. Their hard work and hospitality was far more than we expected and helped make the weekend an unforgettable experience.
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Discuss the Match | Buy Photos and Souvenirs
Galston Boys Club rounded off a season to remember with a stunning 5-2 victory over Scottish Cup veterans Clydebank FC in the CYP Cup Final this Sunday; the match was an exact repeat of last year's final but a total turnaround in the score. Clydebank were perhaps suffering having played (and lost) in a final on Friday and having a number of injuries to contend with but nonetheless, Galston produced an inspired performance.
Half Time: Clydebank 0-3 Galston |
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| Clydebank FC 17s | Galston BC 17s | ||||||
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Brilliant day at Bellfield tourament for unbeaten Bonnyton
Written by Ryan Rowe
Bonnyton Thistle’s 2002s made the short trip over to Bellfield in Kilmarnock in the scorching sun to take part in a tournament celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Club. The team arrived in high spirits and had high hopes for a fun day – and they would go on to match this with their results!Bonnyton’s first game was against Rosebank United and the boys in red and black kicked off in style with a 2-0 win. Midfielder Taylor Smyth had the first shot with a rasping free-kick that just skimmed the bar before defender and Captain Stuart Thomson nodded home from John Sockell’s cross to make it 1-0.
Bonnyton continued to dominate throughout the match and it was winger Lee MacDonald who sealed the victory, stroking the ball home with the inside of his foot from Jamie Hill and John Sockell.
The game never really looked in doubt and John Sockell, Jamie Hill and Mason Raeside were all key performers but man of the match in this game goes to Stuart Thomson; fantastic in defence and scoring the crucial opening goal, the Captain led by example and put in lots of good tackles.
For the second game Bonnyton faced strong Ayrshire rivals Galston in what would prove a tight and physical encounter. Nonetheless, Bonnyton kept things simple and a stunning performance from Adam Devine sealed the win.
Bonnyton had a couple of early shots on the Galston goal before Lewis Grant had to make a terrific save from a long range shot, tipping it over the bar.
Bonnyton did grab the goal midway through the game when Adam Devine went on the latest in a line of dribbles and found the time and space to slot home coolly past the goalkeeper. Devine hit the bar moments later but the one goal would be enough as Grant made another good save following a Galston counter attack.
For this game, man of the match goes to Adam Devine. Lewis Grant could have easily got it for a number of good saves but Devine was unstoppable in the middle of the park. Findlay Kerr also played well. After the game defender Luke Dickson said one of the main reasons his team were able to win the game was the fact they “kept their discipline” throughout the match.
A derby against local rivals Crosshouse was the next in line for Bonnyton, looking to keep up their 100% winning record. In a game where Bonnyton showed their class, they won once more and by the biggest margin yet of 3 goals to nil.
Adam Devine kept up his impressive from the previous game and grabbed his second goal of the tournament early on in the game with a composed finish.
Bonnyton were on top and continuing to press and John Sockell was unlucky not to double the lead after a nice turn on the right set him free to sprint down the line and advance towards goal. His shot to the near post was powerful but well saved. Mason Raeside had a long range shot at goal soon after but nothing came of it.
As the game began to move towards its end, Crosshouse started to edge their way into the game more. However, they couldn’t make their possession count and Jamie Hill was in the right place at the right time to score and seal the victory.
Hill could have had a hat-trick in this game; he was a real handful and unlucky to only finish with one. The Crosshouse goalkeeper made a great save form his next shot but with Hill made up for it when he tapped home after the goalkeeper parried Sockell’s shot.
John Sockell was again very good but man of the match goes to double-scorer Jamie Hill who was full of running and was a predator in the box. Mitchell Hill also played very well out wide.
Three games, three wins, none conceded: A brilliant start to the day for Bonnyton, with the added factor of a decent average of two goals a game. Next up in the penultimate was a clash against what would be a tough AC Irvine side but one the boys would be capable of winning. However, it was not to be.
Bonnyton were obviously keen to keep up their impressive record of scoring in every game and went ahead after only two minutes but Irvine came close straight after when one of their midfielders shot wide.
Bonnyton’s Taylor Smyth was trying to pull the strings in the middle of the park and playing well but a harsh lesson was learned near the end of the match when Bonnyton conceded a penalty. The Irvine player scored brilliantly from the spot to make it 1-1.
Irvine continued to pile on the pressure towards the end and could have won the game but Bonnyton did just enough to earn a draw. Taylor Smyth was man of the match.
So, Bonnyton’s first game without a win and the boys were clearly disappointed at losing their 100% record. They still headed into the final game unbeaten however and that was a bonus. Coach Liam Dickson said after the game in his team-talk that there were “A couple of mistakes, but we win as a team and lose as a team” and that “it was no-one’s fault” for the disappointing result. The fact the players were disappointed in the draw shows how well they had played up to this point and how determined their mentality was.
Bonnyton looked to pick themselves up from that game and faced off against Ayr Boswell in their final game. Bonnyton had an unbeaten record to maintain and they did so in excellent fashion with a 3-0 win.
It was John Sockell who opened the scoring and he did so early on, giving him his first goal of the tournament and it was well deserved. A Pele-esque dummy (meant or not!) fooled the Boswell goalie and allowed Sockell to latch onto the loose ball and slot home with ease.
The game continued in end-to-end fashion with lots of long shots from both teams. The next goal would be crucial and it fell Bonnyton’s way thanks to a brilliant solo goal from Devine. He dribbled his way past two players into space to shoot and shot high into the net with unstoppable force.
As the game neared a close it was 3-0. The scorer was Smyth, tapping home from on the line.
Bonnyton were still attacking right up until the whistle and were given the basis to do so thanks to the foundations of a solid defence. The back-line was very reliable and made lots of good tackles, interceptions and passes and always cleared their lines well.
The importance of a good goalkeeper on top of a good defence was shown when Lewis Grant made another important save to maintain Bonnyton record of four clean sheets with a quick reaction save from a Boswell striker’s header.
The horn blew for the end of the match and the end of the tournament and rounded off a thoroughly entertaining and worthwhile morning of football – especially for Bonnyton. Man of the match for the final game was Luke Dickson who was the star in defence. He played nice passes from the back, broke forward well when appropriate and won all of his headers, tackles and interceptions.
So: Five games, four wins, 1 draw and 10 goals scored with only 1 conceded. A fantastic day! Bonnyton thoroughly deserved their medal at the end and the boys were all stand-outs on the day and one of the more exciting sides to watch thanks to their attractive brand of football.
Video highlights and some high quality photos will be available soon and a DVD of the day will be on sale at Bonnyton’s Player of the Year presentation.
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Discuss the Match | Buy Photos and Souvenirs
After a long, hard season both teams playing in today’s final were looking to earn some silverware for their efforts over the year. It was Tass who went home the happier of the two sides as they won in a game which they controlled for the majority of. |
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| Tass Thistle | KSC Phoenix | ||||||
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View Photo Gallery (Courtesy of Kevin Thorne)
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| Kingswell FC | Irvine Thistle | ||||||
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After two unspectacular seasons, Kingswell and Irvine Thistle met in an end-of-season cup put in place by a sponsor. In a rather one-sided game, Irvine won the cup with a comfortable scoreline.
Kingswell came out for the second half and got on the front foot straight away. Jamie Agnew played a nice one-two with Rory McAughtrie down the right wing. Agnew was forced to the by-line where he got a cross away, his cross though nearly went in, finishing just over the bar, but Dylan Greer in the Irvine net was worried.