Stirling University’s men’s football team have capped an incredible season by winning their third title of an outstanding eight-competition campaign in dramatic fashion.
In their 71st – and final – match of the season, the students won the East of Scotland Qualifying Cup for the first time ever, with an extra-time winner against an impressive Sauchie Juniors.
The 3-2 victory sealed a hat-trick of trophies for Chris Geddes’ side in 2022/23 – following title wins in the British and Universities Colleges Sport (BUCS) Premier North Division and the Queen’s Park Shield.
The successful campaign also saw the team make history in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup, playing Dundee United at Tannadice with the support of football legends Sir Alex Ferguson and Lilian Thuram; secure a brilliant fourth-place finish in the highly competitive Lowland League; and narrowly miss out on the BUCS National Championship title.
The curtain was brought down on the memorable campaign with a close encounter against Sauchie Juniors in the 114th final of the East of Scotland Qualifying Cup in front of a 500-strong crowd at Armadale’s Volunteer Park on Sunday afternoon.
Stirling struck twice in the first period – through forward Cameron McKinley and midfielder Ben Heal – giving them a 2-0 lead at the break. However, a dominant second half performance from their opponents saw Sauchie draw level in injury time.
But it was Stirling striker Ben Maciver-Redwood who settled the encounter in extra time – heading home with 99 minutes on the clock.
Club captain James Berry – who is set to graduate this summer – finished the season the club’s top scorer with 23 goals from midfield. Speaking after his final match, he said: “I didn’t think we were at our best today – and I have to say fair play to Sauchie because they made it really difficult for us to do what we’re good at – but in cup finals it’s all about the end result. I’m absolutely delighted that we managed to get over the line.”
He continued: “In terms of the season overall, it’s personally been the most enjoyable that I’ve ever had – and I’m sure all the boys would echo that. We’ve had some incredible experiences – like the Scottish Cup games – and made memories for life, so it’ll be sad to move on.
“I’d like to thank all the coaches and people behind the scenes for all their hard work, as our success this season wouldn’t have been possible without them.”
Student’s boss, Chris Geddes, hailed his side, saying: “To say I’m proud of our performance today – and over the course of the entire season – is an understatement.
“It is a superb end to a special season – one in which we’ve had lots of ups, and a few downs. Not many teams can claim to play more than 70 matches in a season – and this group of players have given me everything and I thank them.”
