Classy champions kick Carradale out of Challenge Shield
CARRADALE’S season came to a disappointing end as their quest to reach the Challenge Shield final fell at the last hurdle.
Facing a strong league and double cup-winning Duntocher Hibs side, Dale did well to reach half time level but lost two goals early on in the second half which quashed their hopes.
The Andrew Smith and Sons-sponsored side made their way to the neutral venue at the Ropework in Lochgilphead last Saturday.
Despite facing such a formidable team, Dale more than matched their opponents in the first half, with keeper Neil McMillan only having to make one meaningful save in the opening 45 minutes.
The Kintyre men nearly opened the scoring just before half time, when Cammy Maguire’s clever first time flick put Daniel Docherty through on goal. His first time strike just cleared the bar.
Carradale stuck to their 4-5-1 formation in the second half in a bid to stifle their opponents, but just six minutes in Duntocher took the lead.
Dale were caught in possession on the right, and a cross led to a shot which McMillan initially saved.
A stramash ensued, with a Duntocher forward firing in the opener.
The strike opened up the game, with Dale knowing they had to be more expansive to try to snatch a leveller.
Duntocher took advantage of this and struck just five minutes later, again working a goal from the right hand side.
Maguire almost pulled one back from a free-kick, which sailed over the wall and crashed off the inside of the post, unfortunately bouncing straight into the keeper’s arms.
He did manage to pull one back just after though from the penalty spot, as substitute Adam Graham was brought down inside the box after cutting in from the wing.
Spot-kick specialist Maguire converted low to the keeper’s left.
Dale continued to chase the game but Duntocher proved their worth when they scored an impressive third with 10 minutes to go after fine work through the middle.
They added further gloss to the scoreline with a fourth, the last kick of the game from the penalty spot.
Man of the match was awarded to Daniel Docherty.
Carradale wish to thank Archie McKeller for sponsoring the bus, Bill and May from The Glen for the ball and all others who have sponsored the team throughout the season, especially the KB for their home game hospitality.