Joy at last for Kelso High in schools’ contest

The Borders youngsters scored a 7-2 win over St Joseph’s of Dumfries – who had defeated them in last year’s final.

There was special delight for several members of the Kelso team, who’d played in the tournament before and got a little further each time.

Angus Bryce, Joanna Sutherland and Kyle McLain reached the quarter-finals in 2016 and the semis in 2017.

They were joined last year by Kyle’s younger brother Callum and made the final.

However, they were thrielled to win in 2019 – a feat Kyle had predicted for a year – “if we get there, we will win” – because of their consistent progress.

A total of 23 teams from schools all over Scotland set out in pursuit of the prize.

Kelso lost their opening game 7-4 against Sanquhar but recovered superbly to beat Dumfries Academy 13-1, Stranraer 8-5, Dundee High School 14-3 and Stewarton Academy 11-3.

In the quarter-final, they beat Beath High School 11-3, followed by a 9-1 victory against Lockerbie Academy in the semi-final.

Coach Neil McLain – Kyle and Callum’s dad – said they “dug deep and never looked back” after the early setback.

Six years ago, Angus’ brother and sister, and Joanna’s brother, also helped win the trophy for Kelso High.