In a pulsating league clash at Cowan Park, Aurs Road, Barrhead, Greenock HSFP Black edged out their hosts Barrhead with a narrow 3-2 victory on 24 August 2025. The match kicked off at 11:30 am and provided a feast of football for the spectators, with both teams displaying their attacking prowess and resilience throughout the contest.
Greenock HSFP Black adopted a 4-3-3 formation, which allowed them to utilise their attacking talents effectively. Liam Shambach stood guard in goal, while the backline consisted of Ben O'Brien and Robert Miller as the right and left defenders, respectively, with Lyle Buchan and Jay Kane forming a solid central defensive partnership. In midfield, Sam Lyons operated on the right, with Ashton Kerr in the centre and Murewa Seun-Oremade on the left, providing both defensive cover and attacking support. Up front, Dylan McAllister and Zack Weston flanked striker Kaiden McKinnon, who was tasked with leading the line and finishing chances.
The substitutes for Greenock HSFP Black included Kieran Boyd, Taylor Carson, Aaron Smith, Ethan Lynch, and Zack Fyfe, who would later play crucial roles as the match unfolded.
The scoring opened in the 14th minute when Dylan McAllister found the back of the net, converting a short pass from Murewa Seun-Oremade inside the box. This early goal set the tone for an exciting first half, and just five minutes later, Zack Weston doubled the lead, finishing from close range after a precise cross from Kaiden McKinnon.
As the match progressed, Greenock HSFP Black made their first substitution in the 30th minute, bringing on Kieran Boyd for Sam Lyons. This change aimed to bolster their midfield as they sought to maintain control of the game. Shortly before half-time, in the 40th minute, two more substitutions were made: Taylor Carson replaced Ben O'Brien, and Aaron Smith came on for Kaiden McKinnon, as Greenock HSFP Black looked to refresh their attacking options.
The half-time whistle blew with the score at 2-0 in favour of Greenock HSFP Black, but Barrhead was quick to respond after the break. Just four minutes into the second half, Barrhead struck back with a direct free-kick that found its way into the net, reducing the deficit to 2-1 and igniting hopes of a comeback.
However, Greenock HSFP Black responded emphatically in the 50th minute when Zack Weston scored his second of the match, converting a short pass from Ashton Kerr inside the box to restore their two-goal advantage. The momentum seemed to swing back in favour of the visitors, but Barrhead refused to back down.
In the 65th minute, Greenock HSFP Black made two more substitutions, introducing Kaiden McKinnon back into the fray in place of Zack Weston, while Zack Fyfe replaced Murewa Seun-Oremade. These tactical changes aimed to inject fresh energy into the side as they sought to secure their lead.
As the match approached its final stages, Barrhead struck again in the 77th minute, scoring another direct free-kick from outside the box to make it 3-2. This late goal set up a tense finish, with Barrhead pushing for an equaliser, but Greenock HSFP Black held firm to secure the victory.
The match concluded with Greenock HSFP Black emerging victorious, showcasing their attacking flair and defensive resilience. Lyle Buchan was named Player of the Match for his commanding presence at the back, contributing significantly to the team's success.
