Last-Minute Transport of the SWFL North Division Trophy to Huntly

The SWFL North Division had its own version of ‘Helicopter Sunday’, with the trophy at Arbroath before a late switch to title rivals Huntly.

Huntly headed into their match hoping Arbroath would slip up at home against Jeanfield Swifts, and knowing they had to better that result away at Blairgowrie to clinch the championship and secure the Black and Golds a spot in the promotion play-offs.

Arbroath took the lead in the final minute of the match but a dramatic sting in the tale saw Jeanfield score in the fifth minute of stoppage time for a 2-2 draw.

Huntly went on to defeat bottom club Blairgowrie 8-0 and lift the trophy that was transported from Arbroath by SWF Director Andrew Lawrence in time for the conclusion of the later kick off.

Huntly travel to Alloa on Sunday 24 May to compete in the club’s first ever National Trophy Final in the ScottishPower SWF League Cup. Their semi-final success over Edinburgh South was backed by a great turnout of 433 fans at Christie Park.

Formed in late 2022 and playing their first competitive fixture against Inverurie Locos in January 2023, support levels were already remarkable, with over 600 in attendance for the occasion.

Gordon Carter, Huntly FC Chairman, reflected: “When we took the decision to form a women’s team three seasons ago, we knew it would take hard work, patience and commitment from a lot of people to make it successful. To see where the team is now in such a short space of time is something everyone connected with Huntly Football Club should be incredibly proud of.”

“A huge amount of credit has to go to manager Raymond Henderson and Derek Taylor for the work they have put in behind the scenes. Their commitment to building the women’s section, creating the right environment and driving standards forward has been outstanding. They have helped create a real identity for the team both on and off the pitch.

“The players also deserve enormous praise. The squad has elevated the status of the club this season with their performances, attitude and professionalism. They have represented Huntly FC with tremendous pride and have shown exactly what can be achieved through hard work, togetherness and belief.”

The future is being prepared for with a youth development pathway from Huntly Girls to the main club, integrating a 14s group and an 18s development group that has already seen several players involved in first-team action, along with the permanent promotion of Nieve Thomson and Lyndsey Mathers to the first-team squad.