Published on:
07
April 2009
This year's Central & West Lothian Schools Cup saw 9 teams competing for glory. The format was slightly different this season with three groups of three teams playing a round robin. Alva Academy played Balfron in the cup final.
With both teams flying out of the blocks, the early exchanges saw Alva being held back by Balfron with some hard tackling. With some excellent play, fast hands and strong defence Alva made up the ground pushing Balfron back into their 22. There was an outstanding display by hooker Gregor Macintosh who was prominent in both lose and open play.
The first half was marred by injury to the referee with a replacement having to be brought in at half-time.
The second half brought much the same kind of action as the first with Alva starting to dominate. Alva kept strong field position with controlled attacks and strong runs by Robbie Hogg causing all sorts of problems for Balfrons 1st XV. Alva's line was breached with 15 minutes to go but solid performances from Adam Ash helped Alva seal off Balfrons hopes of a fight back. Alva running out well deserved winners in the end 27 - 12.
A mention must also go to what was a promising Alloa/Lornshill side who qualified for the shield final to play Wallace High. Unfortunately Allloa/Lornshill were up against a strong Wallace side which in the end they were defeated by. Lornshill/Alloa have a number of new players in their side who all contributed to the team's performance, this bodes well for their future development.