Woodbank showed grit and determination in Ayrshire, pulling off one of their best results of the season so far. Missing eight players and with preparation far from ideal, the squad had to take risks and lean on experience — but it paid off. The class of Darren Connell and his long-time teammate Stephen McFall proved decisive, reminding everyone of the quality Woodbank can call upon when it matters most.

#GCFAAlive #WestCup

📋 Post match Quickfire Questions

Was there a turning point in the game that, in your eyes, swung it your way?

The turning point for us happened before a ball was kicked when we had 8 players missing and we had to gamble on the fitness of Darren Connell who I know had the talent to play at a much higher level.

#SaturdayMorningFootball

Which player or moment really stood out as the difference today?

As above the sheer quality a player like Dazza brings to the squad is a game changer when he links up with Stephen Mcfall who have played together since youth football at 10 years of age.

How did you prepare the team for a fixture of this size, and did the lads deliver what you asked of them?

Preparation this week has been all over the place if we are honest. Injuries and work commitments have decimated the squad so it was more about getting the belief into the available players that’s they could go out and perform. I think we under performed in all honesty as there are levels to go up with this group of players.

Looking at your season so far, what does this result mean for your season ambitions?

So far this season it has been a bit stop start for us due to the cup games so we haven’t really got started but overall the season so far has been a success and the result today shows the boys can go into these games with a belief they belong here and can go on and have a great season

#GCFAAlive #WestCup

This win was about more than progression — it was about belief. Even when stretched, Woodbank showed they can rise to the occasion. If they can carry that spirit into the league and beyond, their season could be shaping up for something special.

Our sometimes controversial, straight-talking Hugh Dunnit messaged his thoughts after hearing about this huge result:

Eight missing? Preparation in bits? Doesn’t matter. GCFA side Woodbank turned up and showed Drongan — and the rest of Scotland — exactly what this league is about. The GCFA isn’t just surviving, it’s thriving. History, hunger, and quality every Saturday morning. GCFA football doesn’t play second fiddle to anyone.