Pupils end punishing run with long-awaited victory

Wishaw led 4-0 at half-time, but the Pupils produced a much-improved display after the break and matched their opponents in the second half as the game finished 5-1.

On Saturday, the Pupils hosted second-placed Royal Albert FC and turned in a competitive performance in front of a large crowd.

The South Lanarkshire side were pushed all the way before securing a 3-1 victory.

John McCallum scored with a fine header from Ryan Shields’ inswinging corner to make it 2-1 and create a nervous spell for the visitors.

Royal Albert clinched the game midway through the second half against a spirited Pupils side.

Special mention goes to Robert ‘Berta’ Coffield, who stepped in late to play as a trialist after Reid Anderson failed a fitness test. Coffield looked assured throughout and can be pleased with his performance.

On Sunday, Newmains United FC arrived in confident mood after a convincing recent win over the Pupils.

As the scoreline suggests, it was a game of few chances. Newmains had a great opportunity to take the lead shortly before half-time when they were awarded a penalty for handball, but Reid Anderson, back between the sticks for the Pupils, produced a diving save.

Newmains enjoyed more possession in the second half, but the Pupils were defending very well and counter-attacking with good width and pace.

A breakaway move in the final minute finally unlocked the Newmains defence.

Jake McEachran produced a defence-splitting pass to pick out Calum Ellis, who smashed a terrific finish into the roof of the net.

It was a goal worthy of winning any match, but credit goes to 16-year-old McEachran for the vision and execution of the pass.

Emotional scenes followed the final whistle as the players celebrated after enduring a difficult season.

The Pupils had conceded 15 goals in recent matches against Royal Albert and Newmains while fielding makeshift defences. To face the same teams again within 24 hours and concede only three goals represented a remarkable improvement, helped by the return of several recognised defenders.

The club thanked Councillor John Armour for sponsoring Saturday’s match against Royal Albert.

A spokesperson said: “John has supported the Pupils for many years and has helped us greatly with our ground projects.”

Thanks were also extended to Scotbet director Murray for sponsoring Sunday’s match against Newmains United.

The Pupils round off their season tomorrow (Saturday) at home to East Kilbride Thistle, who have already secured promotion.

East Kilbride inflicted a heavy defeat on the Pupils earlier in the season, but the home side will be hoping for an improved display at Kintyre Park.