I HAVE HAD SOME CUPS AND DOWNS

GOODBYE Junior Cup. I never got close to catching a hold of you but boy did I enjoy the thrill of the chase.

After a decade going after the Holy Grail of junior football as a player it’s time to admit defeat.

However, cherished memories of trips to the likes of Saltcoats, Lochgelly, Bonnyrigg and Aberdeen will live long in the memory.

It’s in those away days – win, lose or draw – that friendships are forged for life among team-mates and supporters.

And even though this washed-up keeper has never held on to the trophy itself the nights out after dumping Superleague sides and so-called big guns while being underdogs made us feel like champions.

That’s what this tournament is all about. Villages and towns coming alive to celebrate a wee bit of local pride.

Which brings us to tomorrow’s final between two sides split by not more than 11 miles of A76 Tarmac.

Two villages decked out in colour – Auchinleck in the gold and black and Hurlford in their red and white. It’s a stunning scene.

Two wee dots on the Ayrshire map that are set to be deserted tomorrow afternoon but one of which is sure to be absolutely bouncing by sunset.

I’ll be at Rugby Park tomorrow with my journalist hat on. It’s sure to be a great occasion.

Just not as special to me as those trips to Saltcoats, Aberdeen and the rest.