Match Report - WEST PARK - 29 May 2021

Grahamston reached the League Cup final the hard way with a dogged performance before securing a spot in the final after a dramatic penalty shootout win.

The boys got off to the unluckiest of starts on the 13th minutes as West Park United took the lead. They struggled to settle early doors with nerves showing but soon had themselves level on 25 minutes as Caleb bulleted home a Jaden corner and only 5 minutes later Connor S swung in a freekick from the right wing that evaded everyone and nestled in the back of the net. Things were to take a turn for the worse for the away team as United drew level before half time.

As the second half started Grahamston again looked sluggish and gave away a series of corners and when the third one come into the box it bounced in the six yard box before Jaden handballed and gave away the penalty. West Park took full advantage and restored their lead. Grahamston then went on the attack but were finding West Park hard to break down. Captain Ciaran eventually had Grahamston level on 62 minutes as got to Warrens cross before the onrushing Keeper. The tide was in Grahamstons favour but we did have a scare as the West Park striker broke free with only minutes on the clock Kyie saved the day with an outstanding tackle in the box.

Penalties it was then to decide who would go onto meet Camelon in the final. With nerves all round the pitch it was the Grahamston players who looked calmest with all 5 takers, Warren, Euan, Aiden D, Ciaran and Jude with the winning penalty. A big moment in the shoot out was at 1-1 when Rowan pulled off a magnificent save to give his team the advantage. He almost got to another of the West Park penalties as he saved it with his foot it bounced up and hit the bar before crossing the line.

Onto next week as Grahamston reach the League Cup final for a second season running.