YFS
Aberdeen clinched their first SSFA Senior National Cup, since 1993, with a fine performance against West Lothian at Station Park. The first half was a well-fought encounter, between both teams, and they went into the half time break level at 1-1, following an early opener from Matthew Wallace and a later reply from Nathan Donnelly Kay.
However, Aberdeen’s impressive second half showing, where they netted three times through Lachie MacLeod, Euan Johnson and Michael Philipson, turned the final in their favour. It was a performance truly worthy of a trophy winning side.
Both teams created some early half chances but it was Aberdeen who took the lead in the ninth minute of the game. Wallace displayed some fine footwork on the edge of the box as he beat his marker before firing a powerful shot into the bottom corner of the net. It was a fine goal to bring the cup final to life.
In the 16th minute MacLeod almost extended Aberdeen’s lead as he latched onto a loose ball in the penalty area. Andrew Wilson, in goal for West Lothian, had to be alert to keep out the number nine’s shot.
Soon afterwards, Aberdeen’s goalkeeper Keller Elmsie also had to spring into action. He executed an exquisite diving save to tip a shot, from Kay, over the bar and preserve his side’s lead.
As the game approached the half hour mark West Lothian grabbed their equaliser – and what a delightful goal it was. Kay controlled a headed knock down, from Adam Kennedy, with his chest and volleyed the ball straight into the back of the net. With the scores now level it was all to play for.
Eight minutes later West Lothian came inches away from taking the lead as Dean McConnell leapt like a salmon to head towards goal, from a corner kick. Unfortunately, for him, the woodwork came into play as he saw his effort rebound off the post and away.
