A strong Boxing Day crowd gathered at Strachurmore this year as Strachur–Dunoon Shinty Club upheld its festive tradition with a six-a-side match — played in near-perfect weather, if not quite perfect form.
Despite clear skies and crisp winter conditions that were ideal for shinty, the build-up to the game proved less straightforward. A heavy night of festive celebrations led to a handful of late call-offs, but after some frantic last-minute phone calls, 12 eager players were assembled to ensure the annual fixture went ahead.
While the game itself may not live long in the memory for its quality, it provided plenty of entertainment for the watching supporters. The frosty surface at Strachurmore made conditions tricky underfoot, resulting in a number of players spending more time on the deck than they might have planned, much to the amusement of the crowd.
The main talking point came in the first-half when the Whites appeared to have taken the lead with a well-worked goal. However, in controversial circumstances, Blues goalkeeper Gordon MacLeod managed to clear the ball from inside his own goal before referee Hayden Thoms could intervene, with play waved on as the celebrating Whites were left stunned.
Late drama followed as Ian MacLennan struck the post in the dying seconds, with Willie McGladdery’s follow-up effort going inches wide — a moment that would have sealed victory for the Whites.
With the match ending goalless at full-time, the contest was decided by a penalty shootout. After a nervy and somewhat lacklustre exchange, the decisive moment came when Blues’ Ross MacDonald stepped up to take the final penalty. Amid a collective groan from the crowd, he made no mistake from the spot to secure a penalty shootout win for the Blues.
The club thanked everyone who attended on the day, as well as its volunteers, supporters and players for their efforts throughout the year, and now looks ahead to 2026 after another memorable Boxing Day at Strachurmore.
