Cowie Thistle secured their third trophy of the season with a commanding 4-0 victory over Rattray’s XI in the Association Trophy Final at Balmoral on Friday evening.

The first half offered few clear-cut opportunities, with much of the play taking place in midfield. However, the match took a dramatic turn in first-half stoppage time when Cowie goalkeeper Euan was shown a red card following a challenge outside the penalty area. While the goalkeeper appeared to have made contact with the ball, the referee and assistant referee deemed the challenge worthy of a dismissal.

Reduced to 10 men, Cowie were forced into a reshuffle at the break, with Kyle taking over goalkeeping duties and the team adjusting its formation for the second half.

Despite their numerical disadvantage, Cowie delivered an impressive performance after the restart. The breakthrough arrived on the hour mark when Buck curled a superb effort into the top corner to open the scoring.

The lead was doubled with 15 minutes remaining as Westy finished from a pass by Badger, putting Cowie firmly in control of the contest.

Badger then added his own name to the scoresheet with a spectacular long-range lob struck with the outside of his boot, extending the advantage to 3-0.

Cowie completed the scoring in injury time when Chyla converted from close range after being picked out by another Badger assist.

While the attacking display caught the eye, Cowie’s defensive organisation was equally important. Rattrays XI created few opportunities throughout the second half, with stand-in goalkeeper Kyle rarely called into action as Cowie comfortably saw out the victory.

The result caps an impressive season for Cowie Thistle, who add the Association Trophy to their growing collection of silverware.