Ernie George Trophy Final Heathside United 3, Global 4 (aet)

In probably one of the greatest finals on record, a last gasp penalty allowed Global to retain the Ernie George Trophy for 2006.

The Global Secretary, Bob Chesney, paid his opponents the highest compliment when he said, "Today Heathside were magnificent, they caused us problems, got into good positions, and could have won the game. They had us worried throughout. If I could cut the cup in half, I would do!"

Heathside led 1-0 in an industrious first half but, as the second period developed, the tide turned one way then the other. Global came back to lead with two goals from Jamie Wallace, only for Heathside to score an amazing equaliser in the last minute.

Into extra time, and Global once again nudged in front from a penalty, converted by Ian "Troggy" Moran. Heathside threw caution to the wind and got their just rewards as they managed to draw level as the crowd were witnessing a classic encounter. But as they were settling down for spot-kicks, Lee Hattam found himself unmarked in the area and headed the ball goalwards, only to be palmed away by the back-tracking centre-half. It was heartbreak for Heathside as they faced the second spot-kick of the extra period. With virtually the last kick of the game, Troggy stepped up and coolly slotted home to bring this game to a rapturous climax.

Global lifted the cup but they glanced back at their conquests and knew it could have been so different.

(picture shows Troggy celebrating his win with family)