Shetland retain ScottishPower Highlands & Islands League Cup in close final
An 85th minute moment of composure from Rhea Nicholson was the difference in an exciting ScottishPower Highlands and Islands League Cup Final which saw Shetland Women retain their inaugural silverware against a solid Caithness Ladies in Elgin.
Shetland started the brighter, displaying good width and first to second balls, but Caithness were resolute and organised throughout the first half, Kara Sutherland producing some superbly timed tackles at the feet of Shetland attackers.
Shetland’s pace on the wings meant there was plenty of flow to the game, and Nicholson twice met a good cross only to put it over the bar. Caithness goalkeeper Heidi Anderson kept the score level at the break with a great save just before half time.
The second half began in similar fashion, but Caithness battled their way into more control of the game thanks to winning some midfield contests and strong centre forward play from Shannon Campbell. On 70 minutes she latched onto a diagonal pass and fired a fierce low shot into the near corner which Shetland keeper Jessica Laurenson did brilliantly to scramble to control. Then coming in from the other side, Campbell shot just over with another stinging shot, and Caithness were knocking on the door.
Shetland remained quick on the break however, Nicholson firing just wide, but a lack of gametime for Shetland players perhaps contributed to some signs of cramp as the game was stretched. Campbell had further opportunities, including a powerful shot which edged just wide with around ten minutes remaining and Shetland changed shape to try and contain her. Laurenson had to come out bravely to clear with her feet as the ball broke to Madison Jozwik and she prepared to shoot.
It was Nicholson who showed the composure required to break the deadlock with just five left as she collected the ball in the box and turned quickly to fire low to Anderson’s left and secure the silverware.
Rossvale have gone top of the Barclays Championship after coming from behind to beat Forfar Farmington 3-2 in Angus. Stirling University leapfrogged Dryburgh Athletic into second after beating them 3-1 in Dundee and Stenhousemuir moved into third with an impressive 4-2 home win against promoted Elgin City.
Bishopton continued imperious form in Barclays League One with a 12-0 victory over Westdyke, while Dunfermline Athletic remain second with a 2-0 home win against Airdrie CC. Inverurie Locos dominated the northeast derby with a 7-0 win in Huntly.
