Clydebank see off ten-man Lasswade to reach SYFA U16 Cup Final

Clydebank beat ten-man Lasswade Thistle 2-0 to progress through the semi-final of the SYFA Cup.

Ryan Shiels broke the deadlock in the first half, and Matthew Monaghan completed the scoring after the break to secure his side’s place in the final.

Lasswade started the match on the front foot. Gregor Reid burst into the penalty area with real intent, but Logan Bryce in the Clydebank goal was quick off his line to deny him. This was followed by an impressive spell of Lasswade possession that showed their composure as a unit.

Clydebank came back with an attack of their own and the ball fell to Shiels who made no mistake in dispatching emphatically to give his team the lead and send the home support into raptures.

The goal scorer was in the thick of all the play, and could have had another when he found some space in the final third to send a lobbed effort towards goal. His attempt was met by Jude Anderson who produced an outstanding goal line clearance to keep the deficit to one.

After half-time Thistle pushed in search of an equaliser. They looked dangerous with their attackers making arrowing runs for their midfield to find but the home defence did exceptionally well to keep them at bay.

Bryce was called upon despite the good work of his defence. First, he saved Sam Buchanan’s shot in a one-on-one, and then got down well to stop Mason Beattie’s free kick from nestling in the bottom corner.

A pitch side altercation led to Lasswade finding themselves down a man, but they still fought for a potential equaliser.

Clydebank would score the crucial next goal though, as Monaghan made a run out of defence, and found himself in behind. He rounded off an excellent performance with a confident finish into the bottom corner.

The away side pushed hard in the final 20 minutes but Clydebank saw the game out to secure a place in the final.

They will play Hillwood FC at Airdrie’s Excelsior Stadium in what is sure to be an enthralling contest.

Clydebank Man of the Match: Matthew Monaghan

Monaghan was outstanding in defence, making some crucial interceptions and stepping into midfield to give Clydebank a foothold in the possession battle. His goal was the cherry on top of an excellent all round performance.

Lasswade Thistle Man of the Match: Daniel Dobbie

Dobbie imposed himself from the first whistle with his mazy dribbling and intelligent runs. A consistently good performance throughout the whole match.

Clydebank Magic Moment: Fancy Footwork

Logan Bryce Calmly showed outstanding footwork to keep the ball under pressure in his own box then played a lovely pass to kick-start a fast Clydebank counter.

Lasswade Thistle Magic Moment: Goal-Saving Block

Jude Anderson showed great awareness to run toward the goal line before a shot was even taken and save his side from a certain goal.