QUEEN’S PARK under-17s claimed the CAS Advanced Youth Performance League title in defiant style – capped by a 6-1 home win over Airdrieonians at Lochinch.
Four quick-fire goals in the first half wiped away any title jitters for Lee Mitchell’s side and a further two were added as the sun set on the second half.
Grant Kerr opened the scoring then Joseph Lafferty added number two shortly after. Daniel Edzie tapped in the third before the Spiders took a four-goal lead into the break.
After the interval a wonderful save from Kai Stevenson denied Airdrie an equally impressive strike to pull one back.
The visitors would register, but only after captain Lewis Smith had put the Spiders five ahead with a bundled header.
The young Diamonds, all in purple, scored a well-worked consolation from close range to reduce the deficit but as time ticked down towards the trophy presentation, subs Logan Duffy and Jacob Cunninghame combined for the latter to beat the offside line and tuck away number six.
Skipper Smith then got his hands on the trophy – presented by Spiders stalwart Louis Longridge – for the young team to celebrate, although they do have the important matter of the CAS Cup Final in Dundee to come on Monday.
Coach Lee Mitchell said: “I am delighted for the team, the staff and the club.
“It’s been a long season for the boys but the league title is a reflection and reward for the consistency they have shown throughout the season.
“Not only have the boys performed well for the under-17s, many of them have played up a level and contributed to the 19s too which is really good for their development.
“Even the likes of Kyle [Rodger] and Cole [Goldie] weren’t involved tonight but have stepped up from 17s all the way to first-team level – it has been a positive season.
“To be involved in so many games – especially when you include the Youth Cup run – it’s been brilliant for them and there’s more to come with a final to look forward to next week.
“But to get this over the line with a few games to spare is brilliant. It’s a brilliant achievement for the boys and I’m delighted for them – but not only them. It’s great for the parents and everyone involved because it is a massive commitment for everyone throughout the season and it’s great we’ve been rewarded for it.”
