East of Scotland league football: Stirling to defend cup against Gretna in final

Stirling University, the current holders of the Alex Jack Cup, progressed to this season’s final with a 2-0 victory against Lothian Thistle. The students took the lead when Jason Atkins scored from close range and they sealed their place when Chris Geddes volleyed home near the end to make it 15 consecutive wins for Stirling University.

Their opponents in the final will be Gretna 2008 who, despite having four players suspended, beat Leith Athletic 3-1 away from home. Ryan Coates opened the scoring for Gretna then Phil Storey increased their advantage with a 20-yard shot. Jack Combe reduced the deficit although Gretna confirmed their place in the final with a penalty converted by Daniel Rayson.

In the Central Taxis Premier Division, Civil Service Strollers moved into the top half of the table with a 1-0 win against Edinburgh University, the goal being scored by Scott Gormley in the opening ten minutes.

In the First Division, Preston Athletic extended their lead at the top of the table with a 3-0 win against second-placed Craigroyston. Sean Martin headed Preston into the lead before Bryan Wilson volleyed in Preston’s second. Grant Meaney confirmed the visitors’ victory with a stoppage-time goal.

Eyemouth United moved into third spot with a 2-2 draw against Berwick Rangers Reserves, Easthouses Lily drew 2-2 with Heriot Watt University and Coldstream defeated Kelso United 5-4.