Braves XI triumph as youth academy celebrates first trophy

Caledonian Braves U19s saw off Blantyre Soccer Academy, to get their hands on the Central Scotland FA League A Divisional Cup.

The match took place in the professional setting of Stenhousemuir FC's Ochilview Park, as part of a three weekend long group of 21 finals across the age groups. 

Going in to the final Braves had been unbeaten and were full of confidence. However, their opposition on the day were equally impressive, coming in the form of a very strong and powerful Blantyre Soccer Academy side.

Due to work commitments and injuries the young Braves had only 11 available players. However, that didn't dampen spirits, as the limited squad set about the task at hand.

The game started with Braves dominating the play with some nice free-flowing football on show. The lead arrived in the 37th minute, with a goal from the talented Oscar Ferguson.

Into the second half and the injury problems continued as Braves winger Scotty Martin suffered a knock. Despite struggling to move freely, he soldiered on, with no substitute available.  

Blantyre took advantage of this and started to smell blood and after all the pressure deservedly scored an equaliser on the 79th minute mark.

With the young Braves under major pressure and with only 40 seconds to go a piece of cup final magic arrived. Braves full-back Cammy Millar beat three men as he raced down the right wing, crossing to the unmarked and hobbling Scotty Martin, to head home a fantastic winner.

A great cup win for the Braves squad, including those who were unable to make it on the day and the coaching team of Stevie Collins, Connor Stewart, Rick Eardly.