Queen of the South U16s Girls won the South West League Cup Final at the weekend.
The girls travelled up to Townhead Park, the home of Cumnock Juniors to play Ardrossan with one of the youngest squads in the league (all first year U16s or U14s).
The first half started at a frantic pace with Queens taking an early lead through Gracie after eight minutes (1-0). Ardrossan hit back with two goals their own (1-2). Queens never let their heads drop with both teams continued trying to play good football and 10 minutes before half time Zara scored a vital equaliser to make it 2-2.
The next goal was going to be crucial and Queens got it on 62 minutes through a well worked goal by Isla (3-2). The game was still in the balance and nerves were being tested. The game got a bit scrappy with Queens battling against an Ardrossan onslaught. The Ardrossan equaliser finally came on 71 minutes (3-3). It was now all about holding on for Queens. The game finished 3-3 in normal time. Extra time and penalties loomed.
Queens recomposed themselves and pushed to take the lead, which they did very quickly off the restart. Marcie started the scoring by smashing the ball past the keeper and in off the post (4-3). Siân then quickly followed that up with a fine goal of her own (5-3). QoS now had control with Ardrossan heads starting to drop.
The second half of extra time started with Queens still in control and a further three goals from Charlie (2) and Siân scoring her brace saw the game out 8-3.
It’s fair to say that the scoreline did not reflect the game and credit should go to the Ardrossan team and coaches for their play and sportsmanship right to the end.
The coaches would like to congratulate the Queens girls for never giving up and playing their hearts out, leaving everything on the pitch. Thanks also to the parents, without whom their success would not be possible.