Two quality Conference league teams went head to head Saturday and what we witnessed was just a fantastic game of football.

The Conference league has been highly competitive this season so far and this game would further highlight the quality that we have within the division.

Westhill United AFC v Cathcart AFC

Westhill United AFC secured a vital three points in the league yesterday, surviving a late scare to defeat a stubborn Cathcart side 4-3 in an absolute goal-fest. The victory confirms Westhill’s attacking prowess but highlights defensive frailties that kept the match on a knife-edge until the final whistle.

Hat-Trick Hero: MacDonald Lights Up First Half

The game started at a blistering pace, with Westhill appearing determined to settle the score early. Kyle MacDonald opened the scoring after capitalising on a rebound from a blocked shot.

Cathcart quickly equalized, but Westhill’s response was immediate. The Westhill ‘big striker’ restored the lead, quickly followed by MacDonald’s second, giving the home side a commanding 3-1 lead at the break. Despite the scoreline, Westhill’s manager will be frustrated that a host of gilt-edged chances were squandered, keeping Cathcart in touching distance.

Controversial Call Ignites Cathcart Comeback

The second half began with Cathcart showing newfound vigour. They pulled a goal back to make it 3-2, catching Westhill flat-footed.

However, the connection between Sean McBride and MacDonald proved too strong. McBride slotted a tidy ball behind the defence, allowing MacDonald to calmly complete his hat-trick and restore the two-goal cushion at 4-2.

The drama intensified when Cathcart won a contentious free-kick on the edge of the box. The resulting set-piece was struck beautifully, leaving the Westhill keeper with no chance and making the score 4-3.

With Cathcart pressing desperately for an equalizer, Westhill finally put the game to bed. In a swift counter-attack, MacDonald turned provider, rolling the ball across the box for McBride to slot home and secure the 4-3 win.

Westhill United AFC 4 – 3 Cathcart

Thoughts from Westhill

“We made it incredibly tough for ourselves today with some wasted chances, but the three points is the most important thing. We battled and we found a way to win, and that’s the classic Westhill way.” – Westhill Spokesperson

Final Thoughts

This game was a great advertisement for the Conference League, A seven goal thriller and a hat trick hero. If you were a neutral then you will not have arrived home dissatisfied at what you have just seen.