Caple club's new chapter

David Christie 1563 - 1563 • Published 12 Jun 2008 09:00 0 Comments

Share this

Ardencaple U13s 2 - Giffnock Swifts 1

CAPLE under 13s created their very own piece of history at Petershill Park last weekend.

Ardencaple Boys Club was formed back in 1968 by lifelong pals John McGinley and Wallace Murdoch and has enjoyed a successful four decades, winning league titles, cups and trophies.

But the club had never managed to extend its triumphs beyond the area to a regional level - until now.

Victory in the West Region Challenge Cup is even sweeter, achieved by a side undertaking its first competitive season, and in the year when the club celebrates its 40th anniversary.

The road to the final began last Autumn, consisting of around 100 teams stretching from Oban in the North West to Greater Glasgow and Lanarkshire.

Caple"s side comprises mostly Helensburgh based players as well as some boys from Clydebank, Dumbarton, the Vale and even Cairndow on Loch Fyne.

After high scoring victories in the early rounds, they recorded a 4-2 Quarter Final win over eventual SYCA League Champions Rossvale.

In the Semi-Final, they made good use of fortress Rhu, defeating Erskine Youth FC, champions from the Paisley and District League, 3-0 with all goals scored in the first half.

On the morning of the final, the side left Helensburgh by bus with players sharing the seats with supporters and cheerleaders all proudly bedecked in the red, black and white club colours.

Giffnock took the lead early on, their big burly striker proving a handful for the Caple defence, but they responded well and drew level before half-time when Craig Callander"s free-kick picked out Aarnon Shannon who calmly lifted the ball beyond the Giffnock keeeper.

With 20 minutes left, Andrew Laing scored the winner, bursting past two defenders before smashing home.

Caple coach Craig Holborn said: 'The boys have done themselves, their families and the club proud.

'The final was always going to be a tense affair but we seized our opportunity and are worthy winners.'

The under 13s now look forward to the Ardencaple BC gala day this Saturday and a 5-a-side bash on Sunday June 22 at Loch Lomond.

This article appeared in Helensburgh Advertiser 12 Jun 08

Follow @helensburghadv

Return to the main index, get more from this section or browse our Sport archives.