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The annual Scotland v England New Year’s Day football match took place at Awali Football Club with Scotland securing a hard-fought 4-1 victory. The teams, which were competing for the John Kerr Memorial Quaich, comprised of Awali Football Club members from all over the island.
The match was a keenly-contested affair with the first real chance falling for England when Grant Goulden was brought down in the box for a penalty. Paul Linton’s effort was well saved by Petri Kettunen.
As the match progressed, Scotland’s midfield took control and strikes either side of half time by Mohammed Faoury and Gareth Jones gave the Jocks a two-goal cushion.
England responded strongly and pulled a goal back when Linton atoned for his earlier miss with a neat finish past the onrushing Kettunen. However, the comeback was shortlived as Faoury and Jones bagged their braces to effectively seal the tie. Scotland’s strong defence worked tirelessly to ensure the score line remained at 4-1 until the final whistle when the celebrations began.
The prize-giving ceremony took place at Awali Football Club where Scotland lifted the trophy for the first time since 2002.
Special mentions were given to Scotland’s Owen Jones and England’s Peter Hughes for their man-of-the-match performances.
A club spokesman said: “Awali Football Club would like to extend its gratitude to referee Nick Davis for his effort and support. In addition, the club would like to thank Aggreko and the Awali Caledonian Society for their continued support of this fantastic event.”
