Fivemiletown College’s Under 16 football side regained the McKee Cup after almost a 20 year wait following a superb 5-3 victory over Castlederg High School as the regained the cup for the first time since the 1995-96 season. A feast of goals captivated the travelling support with Scott Johnston scoring two and man-of-the-match Kyle McVitty grabbing a hat-trick in an exciting final.

Both schools had reached the final in unbeaten form and a close contest was expected.

Castlederg took the lead after 23 minutes when a lack of communication in the Fivemiletown rearguard allowed David Bogle to poke home.

However, within three minutes, Town were back level when McKenzie Scott in the Castlederg goal mis-kicked a through ball and McVitty picked up the pieces and slotted home. The frantic scoring continued as, within minutes, Castlederg were awarded a penalty, James-Joel Crawford felling Bogle in the box. Stuart Mortland stepped and dispatched with aplomb to leave the ‘Derg leading 2-1 at half-time.

A resurgent Fivemiletown took to the field in the second half, buoyed with optimism and desire about what they could achieve.

A dominant opening period saw Town take a 3-2 lead. A superb 25 yard strike from Scott Johnston on 43 minutes and an equally impressive header by McVitty on 47 minutes, from an Andrew Boyd left-wing cross, giving them the advantage. Johnston had been a threat throughout with fine strikes from range while Boyd was now on form down the left flank. Nevertheless, as per the first half exchanges, Castlederg drew level with a goal at the other end when a corner kick was not dealt with by Fivemiletown.

Sam Robb entered the fray for Fivemiletown and had an instant impact showing good composure on he ball and intelligent decision-making to set his side on the attack. As the possibility of extra-time started to creep into the minds of those present, Fivemiletown found another gear and took a firm grip of proceedings.

McVitty completed his hat-trick with a close-range finish on 55 minutes and from another Boyd cross on 58 minutes, Johnston added the finish at the back post.

The game finished 5-3 to Fivemiletown marking wild celebration from the 160 strong travelling support. A memorable final to mark the 25th anniversary of the F&WSFA. Kyle McVitty was named man of the match while a delighted Fivemiletown captain Jack Montgomery received the McKee Cup for his school.

PE Teacher Stephen Clarke was in buoyant mood after the game.

“The players showed immense character today and I am very proud of their achievement. The second half was the best 30 minutes of football that I have witnessed by a Fivemiletown side since I have arrived at the school. It is testament to the hard work and strong mental attitude instilled throughout the campaign by coach Chris McDowell,” said Clarke.