Strathearn match of champions

Jun 8 2012 by Lynn Duke, Strathearn Herald

Strathearn Grove 4

Comrie 4

Comrie won 4-2 on penalties

STRATHEARN's two champion sides preceded their respective league presentations last Satruday with a friendly game for the Padder Reilly Memorial Trophy.

With the weather providing a good day for football there was a large crowd who were treated to a entertaining game.

Unfortunately, due to other commitments both sides fielded teams containing a number of guest players leaving both sides bearing little resemblance to the side who played in their last league game.

The first half saw Comrie create the greater chances but some solid defending and a number of outstanding saves from Stuart Young kept the score level until Andy Kirkcaldy scored a tap in after the ball was played across the goal by Shaun Ward.

Comrie equalised just before halftime when James Scott headed home from a corner.

The second half saw Comrie take the lead when a scramble in the box was eventually put away by the first division’s top scorer Billy Carle who went on to prove even the best can miss the easy ones when he blasted over from four yards.

Grove then equalised when Shaun Ward beat keeper Dewar in a challenge to head home. Gary McGlashan, playing well at centre half for the Grove, then put his side in front when he hit a low drive from the edge of the box which beat the outstretched dive from the Comrie keeper.

A change saw Gav Jack join the impressive Jamie Henry in the centre for Comrie and their running from midfield caused problems for the Grove, eventually winning a free kick.

From 25 yards it was taken left footed and executed by John Gibson giving the wall and keeper no chance.

The game continued to be played end to end and when Kev Porter’s long ball to the back post deceived the keeper and landed in the back of the net Grove were back in front.

With five minutes left Comrie were throwing all into attack and a shot on target from 10 yards saw the ball blocked on the line by what appeared to be the thigh of Graeme Walker but the referee saw it differently and awarded a penalty for hand ball.

Noddy Cruickshanks stepped up to play the ball down the centre and score to see the game end in a draw.

The cup was decided on penalties which Comrie won 4-2.

A competitive and entertaining game which although not entirely recognisable Grove and Comrie sides was a fitting game to end a successful season for both clubs.

Both teams would like to thank sponsors Carole-Ann Hopkins and Bob Russell of the Meadow Inn and Caledonian Bar.