Haddington secure the Paladin Cup after 2-1 victory over Ancrum

Played at a frantic, end-to-end pace throughout, the final demanded resilience, discipline and togetherness from both sides in gruelling conditions.

Ancrum started the stronger and Haddington goalkeeper Austin was called into action early with a number of important saves, while a superb goal-line block from Alex prevented the Borders side from taking the lead.

Haddington gradually grew into the contest and opened the scoring through Alex after an excellent free-kick from Ollie fell kindly into the path of the centre back.

Ollie’s swerving effort was brilliantly tipped onto the crossbar by the Ancrum goalkeeper before Alex reacted quickest to force the ball home from close range.

Despite Ancrum enjoying large spells of possession, Haddington defended superbly as a unit, limiting clear opportunities and taking a deserved 1-0 lead into half-time.

The second half became an attritional battle in the intense heat, with tired legs, frantic transitions and chances appearing at both ends.

Ancrum eventually equalised midway through the half, but Haddington’s response summed up the character shown throughout their cup run.

After Danny saw an effort cleared off the line, Lucas produced the defining moment of the final.

Breaking clear down the right-hand side with only minutes remaining, he showed composure beyond his years to calmly finish into the far corner and secure the trophy.

It was a first trophy for a talented Haddington group who perhaps now realise just how good they can become.

Squad: Austin, Riley, Brendan, Alex, Aiden, Ally, Eoin, Ollie, Liam, Joe, Gabriel, Reuben, Alexander, Lucas, Kielan, Fraser, Danny