Barrhead YFC 2003 Reds manager Paul Brogan thinks Sunday’s Scottish Cup win will be the first step in illustrious football careers for many of his team.

The young Barrhead side defeated Banks O’ Dee Albion 4-1 in the final at Airdrie’s Excelsior Stadium.

The tie was finely poised at 1-1 at half-time, but Barrhead produced a terrific second-half display as goals from Adam Unsworth, Paul O’Hare and a double from Lewis Barclay ensured the most prestigious trophy in youth football came back to Barrhead.

Brogan couldn’t hide his pride at his team’s performance on the day and has backed some of his players to go on to bigger and better things after their success.

He said: “I’m absolutely delighted with the guys. The boys are loving it as well, they’ll all be in school this week walking on clouds. I was blown away by the second-half performance in all honesty.

“I think all of the boys can use this experience as they move on with their careers. We’ve been contacted by a few pro-youth teams regarding a few of them already.

“Barrhead will be a stepping stone for them, I think the occasion will give them confidence to push on. They are all technically gifted players, but to reach the top you need that confidence.

“It’s occasions like that that will give that confidence. I expect great things from them, I fully expect in years to come to be watching Sky Sports and Sportscene and seeing some of these boys plying their trade.”

Brogan took great personal pride in seeing his young players celebrate with the trophy on Sunday. For the coach, seeing the joy on their faces made all the long nights at training worthwhile.

He added: “It was such a proud moment to see them go up and lift that trophy. It made it all worthwhile. Training in the cold and the rain, sometimes you can think of a million places you would rather be.

“But it makes it all worthwhile to see their faces when they lifted the cup, knowing they have a memory that will live with them forever.”