An all-Premiership Champions Cup tie between Pollokshields and Barrhead Utd finished level after 90 minutes before being decided on penalties.

From the middle was Gary Coupe, an experienced official trusted with high-pressure fixtures. After the match, he reflected on how the game unfolded, the importance of communication, and the referee’s role when tension rises and a cup tie goes the distance.

Match: Pollokshields vs Barrhead United

Competition: GDSFC Champions Cup

From a referee’s point of view, how did you experience the match overall?

I thought it was a very competitive game and, for the most part, it was played in a good spirit. There was a lot of respect shown by the players — both for each other and for me.

What moment best summed up the game for you — whether that was a passage of play, a decision, or how players and benches reacted?

The fact the game went to penalties really summed it up. It showed just how competitive the match was.

How important is communication in a game like this — especially when emotions rise and both sidelines are invested?

I’ve been a referee for over 40 years and I’ve always felt communication is the most important thing. It stops players misinterpreting what’s happening. I tend to talk all through the game.

When a match goes to penalties, what’s your focus as a referee in those moments to keep everything calm and controlled?

My focus is on the goalkeeper and the kicker, as they’re the stars during a shoot-out. I rely on the coaching staff to manage their players on the halfway line.

Keep an eye out for our roving reporter at a future fixture — he’ll be on the touchline, and if there’s a moment, he’ll always try to say hello.