Published: Wednesday, 26th November, 2008 2:13pm

Final date for Lochside United

HALDANE 3 LOCHSIDE UTD 6

LOCHSIDE Utd 16s chose the semi-final of the DFDL Challenge Cup to record their first win of the season.

With the folding of other sides in this age group from the Helensburgh area, Lochside have taken on a number of new players who have added some guile and muscle to the team. Recent results have been improving but without achieving that magic first win.

Fortunate to get a bye to this round, the boys went to Haldane and achieved a thrilling victory in an excellent advert for youth football at this level.

After twice being behind, half-time saw the match level at 2-2, the Lochsiders" goals coming from Ireland and Dixon.

Just after half-time, Lochside went ahead through McGourlay, only to be pegged back to 3-3 mid-way through the second period.

In an end-to-end final quarter, Lochside captain Bayliss sealed the victory with two splendid long-range strikes.

Kris Milne, the Lochside coach, was ecstatic. He said: 'I"m really pleased that the enthusiasm and spirit of these boys has at last got them a reward. We"ve had some thumpings this season, but they"ve kept going and now know they can play.

'It"s too early to say we"ve turned a corner, but it"s a great moment for a team in its first competitive season."