ARDENCAPLE FC’s 2006 team saw their fantastic run in the West Regional Cup ended at the semi-final stage on Saturday after a 2-0 defeat against Linwood Rangers.

Despite a battling performance Caple’s youngsters had no breaks in front of goal – but they can still be proud of their efforts both in the semi-final and throughout the run which took the team to the tournament’s last four.

Caple suffered a setback before kick-off with Lewis Sharp calling off, forcing a reshuffle in the ranks – and Linwood dealt another blow when their right-winger slotted home from a tight angle to give his team an early lead.

Facing a stiff breeze in the first half, Ardencaple caused their opponents a few problems, but were unable to create more than a couple of half chances against a well-organised Linwood defence.

And a fine finish into the top corner after 25 minutes gave Linwood a two goal lead and left Caple facing a real uphill task.

With the wind at their backs in the second half, Caple did most of the pressing after the break, striking the Linwood post and having two good chances to score, with the visiting keeper twice caught in no-man’s land after failing to clear his lines – but each time Ardencaple’s efforts were blocked by a defender on the line.

Caple battled on until the final whistle, but it wasn’t to be; Murray, playing in defence rather than attack, had a fine game, but was missed up front, though every player gave their all.

Ardencaple are at home to Renfrew on Tuesday, April 23, kicking off at 7.15pm. They hope to have a strong finish to the season with a dozen league games still to be played.