Rangers secured the Scottish Youth Cup for the first time in five years on Thursday evening, on another landmark day for the club’s youth system.
Congratulations to @RangersFC – 2019 Scottish Youth Cup winners!
👏👏👏#ScottishYouthCup pic.twitter.com/8ATnPDpB93
— Scottish FA (@ScottishFA) April 25, 2019
There were a number of stand out players at Hampden. Ciaran Dickson, Dapo Mebude and Nathan Young-Coombes all took their goals well, while Patterson impressed at the back.
However, the one catching the eye of most fans was Academy Player of the Year, Josh McPake.
The 17-year-old has scored regularly this season at age-group and Reserves level.
For many, though, this would have been a first opportunity to see him play.
He certainly didn’t disappoint, either. The young forward was lively from the off, looking to take on defenders and get shots off on goal.
SCOTTISH FA YOUTH CUP LIVE | @RFC_Youth’s @jjoshmcpake speaks to YFS TV after his side’s 3-2 Youth Cup final victory over Celtic. pic.twitter.com/DH5wZHB2s2
— YFS (@yfst) April 25, 2019
Just before the half-hour mark, he came close to a superb individual goal. Setting off on a mazy run and leaving three defenders in his wake, he eventually had a shot well-saved. It was the run and attempt of a highly capable player, who’s currently full of confidence.
McPake didn’t just show when Rangers were on the front foot, either. After Celtic brought the game back to 2-2, it would have been easy to down tools.
Yet, it was he who won the free-kick out wide which would eventually lead to the winning goal.
Overall, it was an outstanding showing, and one enjoyed by plenty of Bears:
Great performance. Young McPake the best player on the park. 🔴⚪️🔵🏆⚽️
— Gary Crooks (@GaryCrooks8) April 25, 2019
Great result with a special mention to McPake & Patterson for quality performances!!
— BlueB55 (@BastionBlue) April 25, 2019
Wonderful advert for the club and Scotland. Some good players in both sides but a deserved victory and McPake and Coombes-Young will go all the way. #55
— Gary 💙💛 (@gbc123) April 25, 2019
Disappointing start to the 2nd half, two poor goals to concede, but great character and resilience to come back from the setback. McPake looked head and shoulders above everyone but struggled for fitness towards the end – if he can keep improving he’s a real prospect.
— Dougie (@CF3Loyal) April 25, 2019
Josh McPake glides past a man like Brian Laudrup
— Long (@jameslong456) April 25, 2019
Aye mcpake was the stand out
— Wullie (@William12652196) April 26, 2019
Congratulations to @RFC_Youth
Magnificent effort from the young bears who run out 3-2 winners, Dickson, Mebude & Young Coombes the scorers
Lots of talent, lots of positives for the young bears
Future is bright @DMebude & @jjoshmcpake sensational 👏
🔴⚪️🔵 pic.twitter.com/NIc77EqLUj
— Four Lads Had a Dream (@4ladshadadream) April 25, 2019
https://twitter.com/Chr1sMcLaughlin/status/1121523094487801862