I know this was a diddy cup and I realise this isn't a vintage side and we are also deep in relegation trouble. However, how good was yesterday? I'm 47, I don't live in Hamilton, I never have, but have supported Accies since I was 5. I've seen some good times and some pretty dire times, some promotions and relegations but only two cup final wins in over 40 years! Yesterday I was with my Son - who had barely seen us score a goal, never mind win a game! He absolutely loved it yesterday and I'm sure that's him hooked for life now - just as I hope there's a few more kids now committed to Accies after that. How many times before a big game, live on tv or with a big crowd have the team churned out a rubbish performance and blown it?
As for the game, itself, I thought we started well and looked right up for it. Deservedly took the lead and the game was bubbling away nicely. Refs have a tough job, but before spoiling a cup final was the referee absolutely sure that was a red card? Did he consult with linesman? It looked like he couldn't wait to get the red card out. I've not seen it back so maybe it was deserved? I really like O'Reilly and think he's a solid defender who was playing very well. He is prone to the odd gaff though! The rest of the game was the expected backs to the wall performance and credit to every one of the players out there, particularly after the injuries.
I'm pretty sure all we were asking for before the game was for the players to leave everything out on the pitch, and we certainly can't argue with that. Yes, we carried a bit of luck and Fulton was absolutely unbeatable, but they fought for their lives when everything seemed to be going wrong. It was also amazing to be part of a noisy Accies support, and just how good was that final whistle?
If we can take that effort and commitment into the next few games, I think we will be ok. C'mon Accies!!