For the third consecutive year, Braidhurst’s Scottish Cup heroes lifted the Scottish Cup, this time at under-15 level. Having previously won at under-13 and under-14 level, the boys were favourites to lift the trophy at Airdrie’s Excelsior Stadium, the venue of last year’s triumph. In their way was a strong Strathaven Academy outfit, who, from the off, presented Braidhurst with more than a few difficulties.

The cup final atmosphere was building as a light warm-up was followed by a team photo for the debut of Braidhurst’s extravagant new pink outfit. Both teams had brought a strong travelling support, adding to the sense of tension at kick-off.

Soon Strathaven were taking advantage of an enforced injury replacement when Braidhurst captain Rico Quitongo hobbled off after a fifty-fifty challenge. As Braidhurst were reorganising their defence, a Strathaven forward pounced on a defensive mix-up between goalkeeper Adam Sinnett and substitute Darren Wilson to open the scoring.

However, Braidhurst’s continual pressing paid dividends just before half-time when, from a Dylan Falconer corner, Jake Hastie volleyed in an equaliser.

The second half proved to be a more cagey affair, before an inspired substitution by the Braidhurst coaches, Madill and Brandon, sent Deryn Lang on to replace the leg-weary Ryan Watt. Within minutes, the excellent Falconer turned provider again, with a chipped pass over the defence for Lang to run onto and finish with aplomb.

Despite a few scares, including a disallowed Strathaven goal for offside, and some good saves by substitute keeper, Sharkey, Braidhurst held on, to record another memorable victory. The team celebrated by wearing their Scottish Cup winners’ shirts to receive their medals and the Shield. Winning the Scottish Cup is always a great achievement, but for this team, winning has become a habit and their three consecutive victories really is something special.