PROMISING young shinty players from Aberdour just missed out on a semi-final when they took part in a national tournament recently.

The Primary 4/5 team from the village’s club represented Central Scotland at the Camanachd Association National Indoor League final after winning the Central Scotland Youth Shinty Indoor League last month.

The competition saw the West Fife youngsters against strong opposition from Glasgow, Strathkelvin, Milngavie and Bearsden before they took part in a regional qualifier competition in Dumbarton.

They were successful in that event to move on to the national finals and they came within a goal of reaching the semi-finals.

Aberdour coach Lisa MacColl told Press Sport: “They only lost two games in their group; one was to Inverlochy, who were the eventual winners. They lost out on the semi-finals by one goal, which was a deflected own goal. It was hard for them but they put in a really strong performance, and to have been not far off the running for fourth place was a good achievement. They did themselves proud. They’re a team to watch and the promising thing is that they can only get better.”

MacColl has tipped teenager David MacDougall to shine after making the step up to play for ‘Dour’s first team this season.

The 15-year-old was named the most improved player at a National Player Development Camp run by Camanachd Association coaches for players aged between 14-17 last year.

She added: “David is only 15 but the good thing is that he is surrounded by experienced players. He’s a clever player; he has good stick work, is very good with his passing and I hope will be one to watch. He could’ve had two or three goals against Kyles but at times took the option to pass or lacked a bit of composure. That’s an experience thing and just needs a bit of confidence to be selfish and have a shot at goal. He’ll come into his own when pitches start to firm up; he’s made the step up and is doing well.”