Cup football in the GDSFC rarely follows a script — and this Champions Cup tie was a reminder of why the competition continues to stand up as a proper test.

Pollokshields United against Barrhead United brought together two Premiership sides with contrasting moments in their seasons, but the same appetite to compete. One went ahead. The other had to respond. What followed was a game shaped by belief, patience, and decisions under pressure — the kind of contest that explains why the GDSFC keeps producing fixtures worth watching.

From the sideline, Pollokshields manager Nim saw a group tested early, steadied through the middle of the game, and ultimately backed themselves when it mattered most.

Name: Nim
Match: Pollokshields Utd v Barrhead Utd
Competition: Champions Cup

You went behind against a strong side and had to find a way back — what did you see change in the team as the game went on?

We spoke in dressing room about this being last opportunity of our season so message was all let’s work hard today, work for
Each other. And if we go behind believe in each other. Got good football players in there

The equaliser works you back into the tie, but it still takes patience to get to penalties — what did you like about how the players managed that spell after getting level?

The belief in the team was there, before I asked who wanted to be considered 5 said I’m up for one. So that spoke volumes and we went with it

From your position on the sideline, what stood out most about the effort to stay in the game before it went to spot-kicks?

As said above the fight for each other. Been a bit indifferent season and big change at shields and I think that fight for each other was brilliant to see as recent weeks hadn’t gone well and felt when heads went down it showed on park but Sunday was different. I knew we’d get back In it, was hoping didn’t have to go to penalties but we take it haha

Penalty shoot-outs are as much about mindset as technique — how did the group look to you once it went to penalties?

We went out the Sunday Trophy on penalties which was disappointing so it’s about giving the players the confidence, belief and then let them be in their own zone. And then be together as a team to support regardless of outcome but the 4 penalties were very good and confident strikes

Looking back now, does this feel more like a result built on resilience or on game management?

Bit of both. Second half we put the press higher and tried to use pace outside in behind the full back and was giving us some joy.

This Inside Verdict isn’t about one kick or one moment — it’s about the standards underneath it.

Two Premiership teams pushing each other, responding to setbacks, and seeing a cup tie through the hardest way possible. From the saves before the winner, to the referee’s view from the middle, to the decisions made on the sideline, this was a fixture that showed the depth, edge, and quality that still define the GDSFC.

No shortcuts. No easy routes. Just Sunday football asking serious questions — and players answering them.