Jeanfield made the trip to Blairgowrie to face Balmoral AFC in the last 16 of the Ashleigh Cup, just under a fortnight after recording a convincing 5–0 win in the same fixture.

From the outset, the Swifts took control, dominating possession and territory throughout the first half. They created a number of good chances, with Balmoral’s keeper producing two excellent saves to deny R. Shillan and N. Kennedy Despite their relentless pressure and attacking intent, Jeanfield were unable to find the breakthrough before the interval. Balmoral, to their credit, remained compact and disciplined, offering little going forward and limiting the Jeanfield keeper to very little involvement.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Jeanfield continuing to press and probe, while Balmoral sat deep and defended resolutely. As the game edged towards its conclusion, the breakthrough finally came in the 80th minute. A. Phillips forced the issue in the box, with his effort ultimately turned into the net by a Balmoral defender for an own goal.

The Swifts sealed the victory late on in the 89th minute. Rian Shillan was once again at the heart of the action, whipping in another dangerous delivery that struck a defender’s arm, leaving the referee with no hesitation in pointing to the spot. J. Jardine stepped up confidently and dispatched the penalty to secure a 2–0 win and safe passage into the next round.

Fulltime
Balmoral AFC 0
Jeanfield Swifts AFC 2

Own goal ⚽
J.Jardine ⚽

Man of the Match went to Rian Shillan, whose energy and quality on the flank proved decisive. A constant attacking threat with his deliveries and solid in his defensive duties, he played a key role in breaking down a stubborn Balmoral side.

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