Airdrieonians win SPFL Trust Trophy
Written By Jake Gray
Airdrieonians beat The New Saints at the Falkirk Stadium to lift the SPFL Trust Trophy.
After Ben Clark fired The New Saints ahead after 12 minutes, a Liam McStravick goal drew Airdrie level 10 minutes later, and a second half Nikolay Todorov penalty ensured the trophy would be staying on Scottish soil.
A fun day was had by all involved as supporters were entertained by a DJ, freestyle footballers, mascots and face-painters. Half time saw youth teams from TNS and Airdrie take to the pitch for a kickabout – a moment they’ll never forget. A half-time 10 second challenge was also played out between fans of both clubs, with a 2-2 draw the final result in that one.
We also welcomed our Festive Friends VIPs for a slap-up day in hospitality at the Falkirk Stadium and both teams were led out by our player escorts.
TNS legend Gary Brabin and Airdrie hero Willie McGuire to show off the prized silverware to the crowd prior to kick off as the teams prepared for battle.
In the SPFL Trust’s third season sponsoring the trophy, The New Saints hoped to become the first non-Scottish club to reign victorious.
With that, they got themselves off to a flying start, taking the lead early on.
However, Airdrie fought back quickly and came back into the game on the 22nd minute and we went into the half-time break level.
The second period was a close fought encounter, but when Josh O’Conner was fouled inside the box and the referee pointed to the spot, there was little doubt that Nikolay Todorov would convert his penalty, and in doing so he sent the strong Airdrie crowd into raptures.
The referee’s full-time whistle saw glorious scenes in the Airdrie end as the trophy, presented by Give the Glory winners Gary and Abi Trench, went back to Airdrie.