The Cup Final we have all been waiting for is finally here and weeks of tension and build up is now in the rear view mirror as these two fantastic clubs go head to head.

Joe Noons Championship stars Busby AFC take on Conner Moffat’s rising ballers Westhill United who come from the Conference league one division below.

The Report ⬇️

A wet Wednesday evening in Rutherglen provided the backdrop for a memorable Jim Harvey Cup Final as Busby AFC battled back from behind to defeat Westhill United 2-1 in front of a fantastic capacity crowd at the Hamish B. Allan Stadium.

With silverware on the line, both sides began cautiously, fully aware of the occasion. Chances were few and far between in a tense opening period, although there were half opportunities at both ends as the teams searched for an early breakthrough.

It was Westhill who struck first, with Kyle McDonald showing great composure to fire his side into the lead after a well-worked move. The goal lifted Westhill and they almost doubled their advantage shortly afterwards, only for Busby to remain in the contest.

Westhill goalkeeper Kelly produced a superb save to preserve his side’s lead, while at the other end Busby came close when a shot drifted narrowly past the post. A succession of Busby corners piled pressure on the Westhill defence, but the back line stood firm with some outstanding defending.

Westhill continued to threaten. McBride tested Busby goalkeeper Simba with a dangerous cross-cum-shot before later unleashing a long-range effort that flew just over the crossbar. Busby responded through Black, whose inviting cross was met with a header that flashed narrowly wide.

Just as it looked as though Westhill would carry their advantage into the break, Busby AFC struck in the 44th minute. Dempster stepped up and delivered a superbly taken free-kick to level the scores, sending the Busby supporters into raptures.

Half-Time: Busby AFC 1-1 Westhill United

The second half was every bit as competitive as the first. Busby’s midfield began to exert greater influence, with a flowing move ending in a shot that sailed just over the bar. Foxy then tested Kelly, although his effort was comfortably gathered.

Westhill remained a threat from set-pieces. McBride’s corner found McDonald, whose header drifted just over the bar, while Dempster came close to adding his second with a snapshot that narrowly missed the target.

The game then swung dramatically. Westhill struck the crossbar with a dangerous delivery before seeing a header brilliantly cleared off the line. Moments later, McDonald found himself clean through on goal but fired over, a miss that would prove costly.

Busby soon had a goal-line escape of their own before taking full advantage at the other end. In extraordinary fashion, they grabbed the lead directly from a corner kick, leaving the Westhill defence stunned and putting Busby 2-1 ahead.

As tensions rose, the game became increasingly physical. A late challenge sparked a brief confrontation between players in midfield, and shortly afterwards Busby AFC were reduced to ten men when a substitute received a straight red card for another reckless tackle.

Westhill threw everything forward in pursuit of an equaliser, but Busby’s defensive unit refused to buckle. Callum Moffat and Shaun Noon were immense at the heart of the defence, making crucial interceptions and blocks as wave after wave of pressure came their way.

Despite Westhill’s relentless attacking efforts, Busby held firm. After a pulsating contest full of drama, determination and quality, the referee’s final whistle confirmed Busby AFC as the 2026 Jim Harvey Cup winners.

Full-Time: Busby AFC 2-1 Westhill United

Westhill United will undoubtedly reflect on missed opportunities that could have changed the outcome, but Busby’s resilience, defensive resolve and ability to seize their moments ultimately proved decisive.

The Winners ⬇️

Man of the Match

Callum Moffat (Busby AFC)

The commanding Busby centre-half delivered a tremendous performance from start to finish. Calm under pressure and dominant in defence, Moffat produced a series of timely interventions and played a pivotal role in helping his side lift the trophy.

Supporters’ Recognition

A special mention must go to the Busby Ultras, whose outstanding support created a vibrant atmosphere throughout the evening. Their passion and energy helped turn the cup final into a memorable occasion and undoubtedly inspired their team on the road to victory.

COMMISERATIONS

Commiserations to Westhill gaffer Conner Moffat and assistant Gary Cook who were gracious in defeat but can console themselves in the knowledge they gave this competition one hell of a go and only lost out on the finest of margins.

CONGRATULATIONS

Well done to Joe Noon on winning his first trophy in the SPAFA GCFA Saturday morning league. The Busby AFC gaffer really puts in the hard work and that victory really makes it all work while.