29-04-2025
Thrilling match between Castle Douglas and Dalbeattie schools went to a penalty shoot out
Two Stewartry teams competed in the D&GSFA Small Schools Final at Queen of the South Arena in Dumfries recently. Dalbeattie High School Under 16s took on local rivals, Castle Douglas High School Under 16s on Queens 4G pitch, with both teams showcasing their talents in what turned out to be a thrilling contest. Both sets of players adapted well to the quick and large playing surface and the first half saw chances created by both teams but excellent goalkeeping and stout defending kept the match scoreless at half-time. The two coaches, Mr Mein and McNay, asked for more directness in the second half, and it was not long before David Perez latched on to a long ball from defence, nipping in and around the Dalbeattie goalkeeper, slotting the ball home for Castle Douglas' opening goal. For the remainder of the match, play and chances were fairly even, but the last five minutes saw Dalbeattie throw everything forward, and with 25 seconds to go, a fine build up put through Robbie Wykes, who composed himself, to equalise in the dying seconds. It has been agreed with Mr McGuffie, the official, that the match would proceed straight to penalties. Castle Douglas converted all of their efforts, whilst Dalbeattie found the Castle Douglas netminder in fine form. Castle Douglas edged the drama 4-2 and lifted the trophy in a thrilling affair. Well done to all players, coaches and fans for participating in a great final. Many thanks to QOS for their hospitality.
