31/05/2026
Rothes Juniors Yellows 2013s 3–6 Cupar Colts 2013s
After the dramatic 5-5 draw between these sides earlier in the season, where Rothes found themselves 3-0 down inside the opening 15 minutes, the message before kick-off was simple: keep things tight from the start and give ourselves a platform to build from.
The game exploded into life from the first whistle, with both teams playing at a blistering pace. Strong defending and attacking play at either end meant chances were limited early on, and it took a slice of fortune for Cupar to break the deadlock after 10 minutes. A mix-up in the Rothes defence allowed Cupar to capitalise and take a 1-0 lead.
To their credit, Rothes responded superbly. They began creating a succession of chances and putting the Cupar defence under increasing pressure. Eventually the breakthrough came when Rhuaridh caused all sorts of problems at the back before firing beyond the goalkeeper to level the scores at 1-1.
With momentum swinging in Rothes' favour, they continued to push forward, but football can be cruel at times. Cupar struck again against the run of play and, as Rothes tried to regroup before half-time, Cupar nicked a third to make it 3-1 at the break. There was almost a lifeline before the interval when Tyler came close to getting on the end of a wonderful chipped free-kick from Cian.
The second half started positively for Rothes as they looked to get themselves back into the contest. Unfortunately, Cupar's pace in behind proved effective and two quick through balls saw them extend their lead to 5-1 with around 20 minutes remaining.
Despite the scoreline, Rothes continued to battle. Cian rattled the post with a superb left-footed effort, while Euan produced a brilliant run that left the Cupar defence trailing in his wake.
A special mention must also go to Toby in goal. While the scoreline suggests a comfortable afternoon for Cupar, the reality was very different. Toby produced a string of outstanding saves throughout the match to keep Rothes in the contest, showing bravery, sharp reactions and excellent handling. His highlight came in the second half when he somehow pulled off a remarkable double save, denying Cupar twice in quick succession and earning deserved praise from teammates and spectators alike.
Then came the spark that reignited the game.
Cian timed his run perfectly before calmly slotting a left-foot finish beyond the Cupar goalkeeper like a seasoned striker to make it 5-2. Moments later, Euan burst through with blistering pace and finished confidently to reduce the deficit further to 5-3.
Game on.
Rothes sensed an opportunity and almost found another. A 4-v-1 breakaway looked certain to make it 5-4, but a slight mix-up in communication saw the chance drift wide. Shortly afterwards, Cian stepped up for a free-kick from a range that looked perfect for him. His effort was magnificent, clipping the crossbar with the goalkeeper beaten.
As Rothes pushed forward searching for a dramatic comeback, Cupar found space on the counter attack and capitalised on another defensive mix-up. Their forward showed great composure to finish well and make it 6-3.
That proved to be the final action of an entertaining and hard-fought contest, with Cupar running out 6-3 winners.
Man of the Match: Cian, whose all-action display included a goal, a post, a crossbar and several moments of real quality throughout the game.
Special Mention: Toby, whose outstanding goalkeeping display and string of excellent saves — including a brilliant double save in the second half — ensured Rothes remained competitive throughout the match.
As has been said many times this season, the level of effort, commitment and determination shown by this group of players has been remarkable. Every player gave everything for the team once again and they should all hold their heads high.
