Montrose can call themselves Jim Duffy Cup champions after a well fought final against DUSC at North End Park. Kai Henderson put the boys in blue 1-0 up just a couple of minutes before the half time break. The number 14 then doubled his tally, and his team’s lead, in the 43rd minute and leaving them in a strong position. With full time closing in DUSC rallied the troops and grabbed one goal back in the 70th through Kieren Barron. With just injury time remaining they were unable to find a second for themselves and Montrose held out to secure the win and the silverware.
Montrose began the game strongly with Henderson and Calum Bisset looking particularly threatening. The first golden opportunity arose in the 8th minute as Henderson latched onto a stray back pass. The Montrose forward turned the oncoming ‘keeper and took a shot at goal. He was denied from opening the scoring, however, by some superb last-ditch defending from Kane Hynes, who was on hand to head clear off the line.
The game then began to settle down as both teams tussled for full control, a sign of how well matched the sides are.
The next clear chance fell the way of Montrose. Henderson displayed some great hold up play, waiting for his teammates to join him in attack. He then laid the ball off to Bisset who fired a shot at goal. Leighton Quinn, in goal for the Tangerines, expertly saved and held the shot to keep his side from falling behind.
With four minutes remaining of the first half DUSC came close to opening the scoring themselves after being awarded a free kick within shooting range. Rory Jagusinski, taking the kick, successfully lifted the ball over the wall but just past the post.
Two minutes later the game witnessed its first goal. Henderson latched onto a free kick delivered long into DUSC’s penalty area and, with a neat one touch finish, lifted the ball over the on rushing goalie and into the net. Montrose grabbed their 1-0 advantage at a perfect time.