Gretna restore their image

GRETNA 2008 lifted their first major trophy since joining the East Senior ranks last season when they defeated Vale of Leithen 2-0 in the Image Printers Cup Final at Albert Park in Hawick.

It proved to be a highly-charged affair and at one stage during the second half referee Paul Hanlon delayed restarting the game after a free-kick because of a disgruntled Gretna fan who was trying to force himself towards the Vale technical area. The incident fizzled out quickly although it seemed to affect the flow of the Vale team. Gretna faced a stiff wind in the first half and they took the game to Vale with recent signing Andy Hardman having three good efforts including a goal-line clearance from Gavin Tainsh. Vale gained confidence in the second half and did not allow Gretna any further opportunities until a throw-in from Ryan Errington in the 80th minute found substitute Daniel Jeffrey who turned and flicked the ball into the far corner from eight yards. With five minutes left Mark Wilson fumbled an Alan Ingles corner and John Jardine headed in the loose ball.

Stuart Rome, the Gretna manager, said: "We played really well and totally deserved our win against a very good Vale team."

Rab Paget, the Vale boss, said: "The first half was as poor as we have played all season although I have to say that Gretna thoroughly deserved their win."

Vale of Leithen: Wilson, Tainsh, Hall (Munro 46), Stewart, Thomson, Greenhill (Burke 84), Martin, Gillon (Dongo, 75), Moffat, Shortreed, Somerville. Subs: Rossi, Walker.

Gretna 2008: Mitchell, Rea (Nugent 85), Wood, Jardine, Ingles, Rudd, Errington, Rayson (Nicholson), Hardman, Seggie (Jeffrey 60), Carmichael. Subs: McMath, Trestianu.