LEAFA round-up: Tollcross Thistle make history, Meadowbank's unlikely hero, Newcraighall Leith Vics keep promotion hopes alive

Tollcross Thistle have made history by reaching the Kelme Scottish Amateur Cup semi-finals for the first time after their 2-0 replay win over East Kilbride YM AFC at the Oriam.

In a fine achievement for LEAFA, Tollcross will represent the association in the last four of the national competition on Wednesday March 18 when they take on cup favourites Eastfield AFC at Hamilton’s Fountain of Youth stadium.

Free-scoring striker Michael Yuill was once again the hero for Alan McKay’s men as he opened the scoring after 28 minutes to take his tally for the campaign to 50 goals. Stewart Crozier played a through ball over the right shoulder of the striker and his first-time strike flew into the far corner of the net.

Stewart O’Neill, Scott Millar and Yuill all spurned opportunities to increase Tollcross’ lead heading into the half-time break.

However, they got the crucial second goal their play merited just before the hour mark when Yuill again finding the net from Michael Hornig’s inch-perfect chipped pass which caught out the visiting defence.

Top scorer stars in goal for Meadowbank

Leading scorer Stewart Adams was the hero for Meadowbank - not for his exploits in front of goal, but for his fantastic showing between the sticks.

Adams was forced to play the Venture Scotland Cup quarter final as a goalkeeper with the hosts ravaged by injury, illness and suspension as they had just eleven players available.

Meadowbank won 5-4 on penalties after a 1-1 draw with Murieston United, and played the opening half-hour with just ten men as Fraser Andrews arrived from work to play.

By the time he entered the field the visitors had opened the scoring on 15 minutes, before Meadowbank hit back ten minutes later through Euan Bell’s half-volley which found the net via the post.

Adams would step up to the plate in the shootout, saving one penalty before Alex Brown tucked away the winning attempt.

Newcraighall Leith Vics keep promotion hopes aliveNewcraighall Leith Vics kept their Lothian East promotion hopes alive with a 4-1 victory over fellow title-chasers West Barns Star.

Luke Dwyer pounced on a defensive mishap to fire the hosts ahead midway through the first half when he cut out a short backpass before rounding the visiting ‘keeper and finding the net.

West Barns drew level through an own goal before Vics restored their lead when Dwyer got on the end of Reece Donaldson’s cross.

Dwyer missed the chance to get his hat-trick when he saw a penalty saved early in the second half.

However, further goals from Colm Callinan and Charlie Adams ensured there would be no comeback from the visitors.