Anderson is the City hero at both ends

Stirling City came out on top after penalties in a thrilling derby match against Riverside on Saturday in the FVFDA Under 17 Challenge Cup.

In a tight first half, the best opportunities arrived for Riverside when Jordan White’s header was well saved by home keeper Chris Nairn, while Adam Sharp and Llewis Houston set up a chance for Kobe Furzer.

City took a foothold in the game until half-time with Louie Beausang, Layton Wardrop and Neil Anderson orchestrating proceedings until half-time. However the Riverside defence held firm with Ryan Morrison and Kenny Allan handling anything thrown at them.

Riverside pressed from the start of the second half and it came as no surprise when they took the lead. Furzer stole the ball from a City defender, played Sharp through and the big striker opened the scoring.

In 68 minutes Harry Thomson set up Sharp who knocked the ball past Nairn but the referee pulled the play back for a free-kick to Riverside rather than playing advantage.

Ten minutes before the end City were reduced to 10 men when one of their players received a second yellow for dissent but City dug in and forced extra time when Beausang netted.

They went ahead when Anderson scored but Alan McLagan replied for Riverside to take it to penalties.

In the aftermath of the equaliser, McLagan and Nairn had to leave the pitch after a clash and goalscorer Anderson replaced Nairn in goal.

He proved to be the hero, making a fine save as City won 5-3 on penalties.

GDWM Man of the Match for Riverside was skipper Jordan White.