Kyles Athletic juniors clinched the 2021 Bullough Cup Final after a thrilling game which ended in a penalty shootout after their 3-3 draw at the Playing Fields in Tighnabruiach denying Lochside Rovers a hat-trick of consecutive success in the competition.
It was Lochside who started the quickest creating a few early chances before breaking the deadlock on the 6th minute with a fine strike by Innes Jackson. This sparked what turned out to be a final that will last long in the memory of all in attendance, a great tussle ensued before Finnan Kennedy equalized on the 43rd minute with the half ending 1-1.
The 2nd half started the same with end to end shinty and individual battles all over the pitch with both sides creating chances. 12 minutes into the 2nd half David Cameron put Lochside ahead with Finnan Kennedy again equalizing 3 minutes later. It was on the 87th minute Lochside looked to have retained the cup through Lewis Buchanan, but that wasn’t to be – Luke Thornton equalized on the 90th minute.
The dreaded penalty shoot-out followed a nervy affair for all but it was Kyles who were to win 3-1 – their second penalty shootout triumph in a final against Oban Camanachd that month.
Both teams were congratulated by former Vice-Chieftain Alec MacNaughton and CA Director Roderick McCuish who conducted the cup presentation.
