Report by Adam Ingoe
The 1st Cloud Arena proudly hosted the Open Age Cup Final, which saw the Northern Irish Police Service take on the Scotland West Police team in what was a brilliant display of football. Both sides demonstrated great drive and determination in their pursuit of the trophy.
The early stages of the game were evenly balanced with both Northern Ireland and Scotland creating promising chances. In the 2nd minute, Northern Ireland came close to opening the scoring with a free kick taken by Joel Richardson but the ball sailed just inches wide, keeping the score level.
Scotland responded with a similar opportunity in the 6th minute, as they were awarded a free kick just outside the penalty area. The effort narrowly missed the target, flying over the crossbar by mere inches.
The first half continued to deliver a host of chances for both sides, each eager to break the deadlock. However, the half concluded in a goalless stalemate.
The second half began with a more aggressive approach from Northern Ireland, who nearly found the net in the 46th minute. Aaron Dunlop met a well-placed cross and struck the ball first-time, but his shot was swiftly deflected by Scotland defender Liam Musket.
Northern Ireland finally broke the deadlock in the 49th minute. A through ball into Scotland’s box found Stevie Gordon, who calmly tapped it past goalkeeper Andrew Sheridan and into the back of the net, putting Northern Ireland 1–0 ahead.
Scotland almost responded immediately in the 51st minute. A long ball forward found striker Gary Arbuckle, whose attempt struck the crossbar, narrowly denying an equaliser. Moments later, Michael Williams made a well-timed run and managed a shot on target, but it was comfortably dealt with by goalkeeper Chris Rice.
Northern Ireland doubled their lead in the 65th minute when Aaron Dunlop weaved through the Scottish defence and slotted the ball into the bottom right corner, making it 2–0.
The scoreline was sealed in the 78th minute, when Ethan Taggart received a pass inside the Scottish penalty area and blasted the ball into the top right corner, securing a commanding 3–0 lead for Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland’s Nathan riddle sealed the outcome of the game on the 90+1st minute, when a brilliant pass from just outside the box landed at the feet of Riddle, who took it home for Northern Ireland and ended the score at 4-0
Despite the best efforts of Scotland throughout the second half to bounce back, it was Northern Ireland who claimed victory and lifted the trophy.
NP_1902_PSUK Cup Final 2025 – Programme – LowRes