Hillhead on the cusp of history

Scottish Cup Semi Final - Glasgow National Hockey Centre - 14.15

On Sunday, Hillhead Men’s 1st and 2nd team have the chance to make history as both teams compete in the Scottish Cup and Scottish District Cup Semi Finals.  In the fifty plus years that Hillhead has existed only the 3rd team have ever reached a National Cup Final.  There has been plenty of success with numerous National Plate wins over the years but a cup triumph remains elusive.  Sunday, however, is an opportunity that a club of Hillhead’s size and stature craves as they dine with the big boys of Scottish Hockey. 

Hillhead 1s have had a testing journey to get to the last four, with Premiership side and fierce rivals Uddingston up first in the last 16.  Having been on the wrong end of a 2-0 defeat in the league, Hillhead began the match as underdogs.  A closely contested match with few chances ensued.  Hillhead scored late through a fine strike by Grant McMillan and looked to be heading for the quarter finals before Uddingston equalised with the last touch of the match.  Penalties followed, with Hillhead winning on sudden death. 

Credit: Mark Pugh

The quarter final was played days later against high flying division one side Glasgow University.  A tight game came to life in the second half with the Premiership side’s superior intensity and fitness coming to the fore as they raced away to a convincing 7-2 lead and a place in the semi finals.  Awaiting Hillhead in the semi finals are Edinburgh University, who currently sit third in the Premiership.  When the two sides met in the league the students were worthy winners with the 2-1 scoreline flattering Hillhead.  Hillhead have improved significantly since that match under the watchful eye of coach Keith Joss and were understrength when the two teams met.  Edinburgh University will undoubtedly start as favourites, however, Hillhead will no doubt fancy their chances in a one off tie and will look to Fraser Ward for goals.

Scottish District Cup Semi Final - Glasgow National Hockey Centre - 10.15

Hillhead 2s like their club counterparts have had a mixed season but have come to the fore in recent months with some of their strongest performances in league and cup.  Credit to captain Andrew Sinclair and player/coach Jonny Horn for their patience and perseverance.  The seconds faced fellow Regional League side Dunfermline Carnegie in the last 16, triumphing 4-1 after a well contested match.  Next up for the Glasgow men were Regional league royalty Watsonians, a team consistently in the mix come league and cup conclusions over the years.  A classic encounter followed with the lead changing hands several times before Hillhead deservedly progressed 5-3. 

Next up for the 2s are Western Wildcats who sit second in the Regional league.  Hillhead recently draw 1-1 with the Wildcats in the league.  Unfortunately Hillhead will be missing six players from the quarter final win due to the scheduling of the match in the middle of the Easter school holidays.  A real shame for the team and the integrity of a National competition.  Hillhead though will rally and will no doubt give their all in pursuit of the coveted place in the showpiece Final.

Scottish Reserve Plate Semi FInal - Glasgow National Hockey Centre - 12.15

Hillhead 4s take part in the Reserve Plate semi final after losing a tightly contested Reserve Cup match vs Dunfermline Carnegie on penalties.. Sunday sees the 4s take on Inverleith who currently prop up East District Division 1.

Andy Macey’s side finished the regular season strongly with four wins in five and will be looking to add another one to their tally this weekend.