Two top amateur sides went head-to-head in the Super Cup. Here’s what the man in the middle Kevin O’Neill had to say.

With two sides like Castlemilk and Todholm—full of experience and respect—did your role shift more toward guiding the rhythm of the final rather than controlling the tempo?

Absolutely. With two well-organised teams like Castlemilk Community and Todholm who been there before and understand the game, it becomes more about game management and controlling the game with a light touch, allowing the match to flow while stepping in only when needed. The admiration both teams have for each other and the game helped that massively. Was fantastic having such experienced match officials in Referees Andy Seymour and Colin McGarry in attendance supporting me throughout also helped.

There was a calm authority in how you used players’ names consistently through the game—do you see that as key to building trust on the pitch?

Yes, 100%. Using names adds a human side to the officiating, it’s not just a guy with a whistle and a ref shirt on. I think it helps defuse tension, builds mutual respect, and shows you’re paying attention to individuals, not just decisions. I feel as an ex Player, players tend to respond better when they know you’re engaged in that way.

Cup finals bring big moments & this final had many — was there one where you thought, “This is why I love officiating”?

Definitely. There was one moment after a strong tackle, firm but fair, right in front of me proper 50/50, both lads fully committed. They both just got up, gave each other a nod, and got on with it. No moaning, no handbags, just respect and real football. That’s why I love officiating. This is the closest thing to being in the thick of it again. You get to be part of those moments where the game speaks for itself.

How do matches like Sunday’s final showcase the spirit of Scottish Sunday league football & in particular GDSFC at its best?

Sunday’s final was a perfect advert for our League. Two quality sides going at it with intensity but also respect. The sidelines were buzzing, the atmosphere was positive, and it was competitive without being toxic. GDSFC thrives on that kind of spirit, it’s Sunday Amateur Football at its best with pride, passion, and a good bit of banter, but still played in the right way.

When the final whistle went, what did you feel first—satisfaction, relief, or a quiet pride in how both teams carried themselves with your help?

A bit of all three to be honest, Satisfaction that the game was played in the right spirit, Relief that the big decisions we made were handled fairly, and Pride in how both teams represented themselves and GDSFC league. It’s never easy refereeing, football is a passionate game , emotions can run high, but when players buy into the occasion and respect all of the officials, it makes a massive difference.

I felt honoured to have been trusted with such an opportunity

“A big thanks to Kevin for giving us their time and insight – a brilliant glimpse into the vital role referees play in the heart of grassroots football.