Memorial trophy presented in Rhu in memory of former Riverside footballer

A memorial trophy has been renamed in tribute to a late football player.

The Craig Scott Memorial Cup named in memory of former Riverside player Craig was contested by his former team and Rhu Colts last month.

Riverside were formed in 2002 and managed by Stephen Molloy.

In their first season they finished runners-up in Division Three of the West of Scotland League, gaining promotion and even reaching two cup semi-finals.

Other honours for the side include becoming Second Division champions, winning the Spring Cup, and winning their own Riverside Challenge Cup as well as a host of other deep runs in the cup.

Craig, who was a valued friend and member of the team, sadly passed away in July 2018.

This year, the Riverside Challenge Cup was renamed the Craig Scott Memorial Cup in Craig’s honour.

This memorial match was the first time that Riverside had played together in 20 years with it being held at Rhu’s Ardenconnel ground.

Rhu allowed their club house to be used for post-match refreshments for all spectators in attendance and the players while McColls buses provided transport for the players free of charge.

A big crowd of Craig’s family and friends and attended the match.

The memorial match finished with a 5-2 victory for the Rhu Colts and won the cup.

After the match Craig’s wife Joanne was given flowers and his children a memorial plaque to commemorate the cup’s first year.

Stephen Molloy, who organised the event said: “We all know that we are here to remember our dear friend following his passing and thank you to everyone that has made the effort to be here today to show that love that we all have for Craig.

“I’m sorry that it has taken me until to organise this event in his memory.

“It has been a fantastic day in memory of our friend despite the fact many of the Riverside players resembled the Craiglang old team rather than a football team.

“The years haven’t been so kind to some of our boys, namely JP Molloy, Tam Bailey, Neil Gillespie and Alex the goalie!

“A thank you goes to the Rhu players and management for having us. With a special mention to the Rhu manager Jamie Kjorstad and club legend Sam Gemmel for everything they’ve done to help make today possible.

“A further thank you goes to McColls for providing us with the transport bus necessary.

“And thank you to Michael Sharky for officiating the match for free also.

“But the biggest thank you of all goes to Craig’s family and friends that made it to Rhu for the occasion.”