3 days ago
Wallace High girls team aim to follow senior glory in showpiece cup final
The school's under-15 girls side are in action for the Scottish Shield final tonight at the Falkirk Stadium - with the aim of following in the seniors' footsteps.
Wallace High's under-15 girls' side are hoping to make it an extra-special season for the school's footballers in their national final this evening.
The school's youngsters will take on a team from Braidhurst High in Motherwell in the final of the Scottish Shield at the Falkirk Stadium with an 8pm kick-off.
The under-15 side have already the league and league cup, but are hoping to make it a treble and go one step further in the Shield having finished as runners-up in 2023.
The Falkirk surface has already seen Wallace success with the senior girls' squad defending their national crown with a resounding 11-1 sin over Grove Academy from Dundee - with five of that squad also eligible for the U15s.
Head coach Rachel Whillans is Principal Teacher at Wallace High's School of Sport.
She said: 'I am so proud of the girls, who have shown an amazing work ethic and commitment all year.
'Most of these girls have been together for three years and their journey and progress has been incredible. They began as S1s in the School of Football programme and have stuck together and worked so hard to get to the level they are at today.
'Hours of training, numerous games and a togetherness like I have never seen before has allowed this talented group to reach a Scottish Cup Final.
'Inspired by the older girls, who won the U18s Shield, the girls have been desperate to emulate this. We have one more game, one more challenge and one more big night at Falkirk Stadium ahead. I know the girls will be ready and give it their all.'
The U15s secured their spot in the showpiece occasion with a dramatic penalty shootout win in the semi-finals over Turnbull High after a 2-2 draw in the regular period of play.
Their run has also seen them defeat James Young High, Portobello High, Bathgate Academy and Carnoustie - scoring nine goals in each of those matches.
Whillans added: 'It has been a tough run, facing some excellent opposition but this is a special group of players, who I have every confidence in.
'The semi-final epitomised their spirit. They have one final match to go and we will prepare correctly and give it everything on the night. I am so proud and can't wait to see them walk out in front of the whole school community, who have been so supportive all the way.
'Thank you to our parents, carers, staff and friends and to the girls for their effort, passion and belief.'
Wallace head teacher Scott Pennock said: 'One of the great privileges of my job has been spending quality time over the past 12 and a half years cheering from the touchlines and watching a range of our young people across sports realise significant team and personal milestones as they have worked together to grow, progress and achieve.
'Our senior girls, with some of this team part of that squad, have done amazingly well in reaching three finals in a row and winning two years in succession.
'Our juniors are the future in following on from them and I know their legacy is in safe hands.
'I don't know what the final score will be, but I do know that whatever it is, I will feel nothing but pride as I cheer you on, watching you give your best with a passionate Wallace community behind you.
'Drink in the occasion and atmosphere, and enjoy every minute – your achievements this season have been outstanding and we are all so proud of you.'
Lord Provost Elaine Watterson said: 'The senior girls' achievements in the competition last month inspired us all. It would be incredible if the U15 side makes their own mark in the competition and brings even more pride to the Wallace High community.
'The cup final will be a great occasion for both schools, so please come along to the Falkirk Stadium and show your support for these incredible young women.'
