Hugh Dunnit — Premier League Cup Quarter-Final

Glasgow Island 4–2 Corinthians

Eight teams started the weekend with hopes of reaching the Premier League Cup semi-finals. By the end of a compelling quarter-final at Scotstoun, Glasgow Island had secured their place in the final four with a 4–2 victory over Corinthians.

The scoreline tells one story, but the game itself highlighted exactly why the GCFA Premier League continues to produce some of the strongest amateur football in the city.

Corinthians struck first and showed from the opening minutes that they were more than capable of competing with one of the league’s in-form sides. Glasgow Island responded well, however, turning the match around before half-time to lead 3–1.

A key moment late in the first half saw Island extend their lead from a corner after what had already been an open and entertaining contest.

Corinthians never stopped competing. They struck the woodwork during the game, and Tom in the Corinthians goal produced an outstanding double save earlier in the match to keep the scoreline close at a key moment.

Island added a fourth goal in the second half, but Corinthians continued to attack and pulled one back late on to make it 4–2.

Even in the closing minutes the visitors kept pushing forward, showing the kind of fighting spirit that reflects well on the standard and competitiveness of the Premier Division Cup.

There were also moments that summed up the respect within the game. After a minor scuffle in the second half, a couple of players clapped hands together before Corinthians returned the ball to the opposition at the restart of play — a gesture appreciated by those around the pitch.

Referee Jim McNeil, one of the league’s more experienced officials, handled the match well throughout, including managing a few brief flare-ups involving players and sidelines during the second half.

By full time Glasgow Island had done enough to progress, but the contest itself served as another reminder of the level of football being played across the GCFA Premier League.

The result sends Island into the semi-finals, while Corinthians leave the competition after a competitive and spirited performance.

Footy Focus will also bring reaction from:

• The Glasgow Island camp after reaching the semi-finals

• Referee Jim McNeil on managing the quarter-final contest

• A Corinthians perspective, with a representative reflecting on the match and the strength of the GCFA Premier League