Barry McMillan’s successful conversion in a penalty shootout captured the Jean Pierre Babin Trophy for Fairmuir under 15’s at the expense of Ferry Athletic. In what was a dramatic final held at North End Park, penalty kicks were required to settle the contest after Fairmuir came from behind twice in the second half.

Only four places separate the finalists in the G Taylor League and, as expected, the opening period was a tight affair with limited chances for either side.  Despite both teams enjoying spells of possession the respective goalkeepers were largely untroubled, partly explained by the impressive defensive marshalling of Ferry Athletic’s James Lawrie and Fairmuir’s Liam Courtney.

Quick movement between Jude Hugh and Matt McKinnon almost carved out the first opportunities for Ferry and they were unlucky to be halted by an offside flag on two separate occasions.  

Fairmuir responded well and could have been ahead moments later, Kai Buchan‘s low drive flashing just wide of Robert Black’s left hand post.  As the half drew to a close Vincent Edmunds won a free kick for the eventual victors with Buchan’s effort  crashing off the wall, ensuring it would remaining goalless at the break.

Ferry began the second half brightly with McKinnon again heavily involved, creating a yard of space to fashion a shot which drifted off target.  The attacker’s endeavour would be rewarded shortly with the opening goal in the 43rd minute, displaying good composure to slot past the 'keeper after controlling a ball from deep.

After going behind Fairmuir began to press and a Buchan header from Cameron Meldrum’s corner almost restored parity.  With numbers committed forward in search of an equaliser Fairmuir created a further chance with Kieran McWilliams powerful effort striking the bar.  Eventually the pressure paid off and the sides were level in the 60th minute, a good run by Steven Abbot created space for Buchan to divert the ball into the bottom corner.

Despite the setback of conceding Ferry Athletic continued to play good football and restored their lead in the 66th minute through McKinnon’s second of the afternoon, the number 10 displaying good feet to round the keeper and stab into the empty net.

Similarly to earlier in the contest Fairmuir reacted well to going behind with Buchan and Abbot both having good chances.

Just as it looked as if the drama of penalty kicks would be avoided, Jay Taylor knocked the ball over the line from Meldrum’s free kick two minutes from time.