Somerset old boys star in final drama

A host of former Honest Men were on display in Sunday’s cup final cracker.

Rival managers Tommy Sloan and Darren Henderson both plied their trade with Ayr United as well as enjoying spells at Stranraer and Queen of the South.

Sloan had three seasons at Somerset Park in the mid 80s.

Hendo clearly enjoyed life so much there that he followed his 1996- 98 stint by returning for more in 2004- 05.

Cup final match winner Craig McCracken cut his teeth at Ayr with a handful of top team appearances before being freed.

Mark Shankland, who set up both of Talbot’s extra- time goals with sublime crosses, was United’s youngest ever first team player at 15 years and 300 days in 2010- 11.

Willie Lyle, Gordon Pope and Gareth Armstrong also pulled on the black and white.

The Somerset old boys link was equally as strong in the Hurlford camp.

Former Ayr player- boss Mark Roberts, who played a key role in getting to the final, was injured and forced to look on from the stand.

One- time Ayr striker Ross Robertson fired Hurlford ahead from the spot.

He was joined in the starting line- up by goalie Ally Brown and Chris Robertson while benchmen were Ryan Caddis and Stewart Kean.

Skipper Allan Jenkins began his career with Ayr Boswell Boys’ Club.