Junior Football Round-up ’Hill take derby win from Shotts
Clydesdalecup finalmoved
The Clydesdale Challenge Cup final between Lesmahagow and Forth Wanderers will take place tonight (Thursday) at Craighead Park, with a 7pm kick-off.
The final was switched from the scheduled Monday date as ’Gow had previously agreed a friendly at Stirling University for Tuesday night.
Manager Robert Irving said: “I spoke with Forth manager Jamie Mckenzie after taking in the second semi-final last week, and I’m most grateful to him for agreeing to the suggested switch.” Bellshill beat Shotts Bon Accord 2-1 in the only derby friendly at the weekend.
The visitors looked to be the sharper side in the first half, with the wind behind them, and in 11 minutes Richard Kane cashed in on a breakaway to slide the ball into the net for the opener.
Shotts replied through Kit Cummings, who had an effort parried by the trialist goalkeeper, and a Glenn Eadie header that hit the crossbar, but Dylan Bradley notched a second, four minutes before the break.
Skipper Ally Martin tried his luck with a 35-yarder as Shotts reshuffled their pack, with three substitutes, in an effort to get back into the game.
Although they went close through Andy Scott and Greg Miller, Bellshill held out for the win.
Bellshill manager Robert Sneddon said: “It was a good wee run-out for the lads.
“Last week at Blantyre we had 21 players available, this week we had seven on holiday.
“I was pleased with the way the guys worked as well, keeping the ball well.
“There were a lot of positives to take from the game, so I’m happy enough.”
Shotts boss Kieran Mcguinness said: “It was a good work-out, with several guys still on holiday.
“The result was disappointing, but the way we scored our goal was encouraging.
“We have brought in a couple of strikers and a couple of midfielders, and they’re just trying each other’s game.
“We had six or seven new guys out there, and they’re still getting to know each other, but they’ve been working hard at the training ground on fitness, their shape, and proving they’re ready for games.” to get to know