Gordonians Under-17 Boys rounded off an excellent season with a memorable trip to Edinburgh on Saturday 6th June, where they defeated Watsonians 3-2 in a fiercely contested friendly at Meggetland.

Firstly, huge thanks must go to Watsonians for their outstanding hospitality throughout the day and for hosting the boys so well at Meggetland.

Before the match, the squad enjoyed an incredible experience as Scotland Men’s National Coach Neil Allan delivered a special training session alongside current Scotland internationals Jamie Croll and Jamie Golden. Golden, widely regarded as one of the world’s finest drag flickers, left the boys in awe with the speed, power and accuracy of his flicking ability. It was remarkable to witness first-hand, although young goalkeeper Alan Younger may not entirely agree after bravely facing several efforts! To his credit, Alan managed to save one — a moment he will no doubt remember for years to come. Huge thanks to Neil, Jamie and Jamie for giving up their time before heading to South Africa the following day for the FIH Nations Cup.

The match itself showcased tremendous character, determination and togetherness from the Gordonians boys. With injuries mounting throughout the game and only one substitute available, the team ran themselves into the ground to secure a deserved victory.

Watsonians started brightly and took an early lead before Gordonians battled their way back into the contest. Alan Younger produced an excellent save to keep the deficit at one before a swift counterattack saw Brody Morrice equalise with a composed finish after an impressive display up front all afternoon.

Defensively, Wade and Juan were outstanding in the centre, organising superbly and standing firm under pressure. Max Forsyth-Grant and Leo Wishart were exceptional in the full-back areas, with Wishart producing several marauding runs as the game opened up in the later stages. Will Donaldson also impressed early on before unfortunately being forced off through injury.

Watsonians regained the lead, but Gordonians continued to battle. Evan produced a clinical finish to level matters once more, while Max Steele and Peter Fish worked tirelessly in midfield against a talented Watsonians side. As injuries accumulated and the team reshuffled, Eli Clark dropped deeper into midfield and the midfield trio showed tremendous composure and work-rate throughout.

Aleks Rennie remained a constant attacking threat with his direct and pacey running causing problems all afternoon, while Gordonians produced some of their best hockey during an excellent third quarter. The winning goal eventually arrived through Eli Clark, who fired a brilliant reverse-stick strike from the top of the circle into the bottom corner.

Clearly exhausted in the final quarter, the boys dug deep and defended superbly to hold on for an outstanding 3-2 victory and end a fantastic trip to the capital city in style.

A well-earned McDonald’s stop on the journey home capped off a tremendous day and an excellent season for the squad. Thanks also to all the parents and supporters who travelled down, to Kenny Steele for coaching, and Rae Younger for driving and helping make the trip possible.

( Our thanks go to Alan Clark, U-17 Boys Team Manager, for this excellent report)

Photo: Our U17 Boys with Scotland Coach Neil Allan flanked by Scotland players Jamie Croll (left) and Jamie Golden (right).