Drumpellier lose out in Mathieson final

Cumbernauld-based Drumpellier Thistle lost out to Stenhousemuir in the final of Mathieson Memorial Trophy in this Friday evening game at Camelon Juniors Park.

However, Stenhousemuir had to recover from a 2-0 half-time deficit as they were caught out by a Drumpellier team who belied their mid table second division position with some good football in the first half.

Stenhousemuir had the ball in the net with their first attack but it was ruled offside. Some stout defending denied Stenhousemuir and as the half progressed Drumpellier grew in confidence. With 10 minutes of the half remaining Some great play from Drumpellier saw Harris hook the ball home from the edge of the box. Worse was to follow minutes later as McLean conceded a penalty and Hamill scored from the spot. Stenhousemuir were rattled and could have conceded again as Drumpellier missed another chance to extend their lead.

It was a different Stenhousemuir that emerged after half time and began to put Shaw in the Drumpellier goal under some pressure. After 54 minutes he tipped an effort over, from the corner Fleming sent a downward header into the corner of the net. Drumpellier’s Gordon Angus had an opportunity to extend the lead but his effort flew across goal.

With 10 minutes remaining Brotton latched onto a through ball to slot home the equaliser.

Stenhousemuir pushed forward and as extra time loomed Fleming scored from close range after a scramble in front of goal.

This was an excellent final, with Drumpellier playing their part having enjoyed an excellent second half of the season, more consistency will surely see them pushing for a promotion place next season. Stenhousemuir have some crucial games remaining as they are still invoved in the title race and the David MacKinnon Cup.

RESULTS

Wednesday, May 29th: JF Colley Cup final – Stenhousemuir 1, Carronshore 3. Premier Division – Kirkintilloch MW 4, AFC Milton 1. First Division – Tillicoultry 2, Slamannan 3; Barrhill 4, Bannockburn 3. Second Division – Drumpellier Th 0, Fallin 3; Stirling Boys’ Club 2, Gormac Th 3; Cumbernauld 2, Sunnyside 2.

Friday, May 31: Mathieson Challenge Trophy final – Stenhousemuir 3, Drumpellier Th 2. First Division – Slamannan 3, Barrhill 2; Bannockburn 3, Milton FC 3; Dunblane 7, Loganlea 3; Greenhill 2, Stirling Boys’ Club 1. Second Division – Sunnyside 1, Independent FC 1.

FIXTURES

Wednesday, June 5: Premier Division – Camelon Albion v Stenhousemuir (prov). First Division – Maddiston v Slamannan; California v Barrhill (prov). David McKinnon, semi-finals – KMW or Dunipace v Barrhill or Drumpellier; Carronshore or Stenhousemuir v Bannockburn.

Friday, June 7: Premier Division – Carronshore v Bonnybridge (prov); Camelon Albion v Stenhousemuir (prov). First Division – Tullibody v Slamannan, California v Barhill (prov). David McKinnon final at Dunipace Juniors.

Monday, June 10: Premier Division - KMW v Stenhousemuir. First Division – Slamannan v Zetland; California v Barrhill (prov).

Wednesday, June 12: Premier Division – Camelon Albion v Stenhousemuir (prov); Carronshore v Bonnybridge YFP (prov)

First Division play-offs (relegation) all at Hawes Park, Bridge of Allan. If draw at end of 90 minutes, penalties to be taken, rules as league cup: Friday, June 7 – Redbrae v Dunblane. Monday, June 10 – Tillicoultry v Dunblane. Wednesday, June 12 – Tillicoultry v Redbrae.