Two second-half goals from Gary Grumoli was enough to see the McFadyen sponsored Pupils take full points in a match that was extremely hard-fought. It really was a case of no quarter given, with both sides battling for ninety minutes to achieve their individual goals. Second-top Arkleston required the points to garuntee promotion; however, although slightly less ambitious, the Pupils cause of first division survival was of equal importance.

This was more like from the home side after last week's defensive frailties, a willingness to fight its corner the main reason behind a welcome, but largely overdue success at Kintyre Park. A massive improvement at the back laid the cornerstone for victory, although, none of this could have been achieved without a sterling overall team performance. This was particularly noticable in midfield, where James Armour, Paul Grumoli and Darren McGillvray ran themselves to a stand still.

Facing a stiff easterly breeze in the opening forty-five, the home side looked organised at the heart of defence. The return to duty of the experienced Norman Thompson was a bonus on a day of stout hearts; however, things could have easily gone wrong when a cross from the by-line was headed against the outside of the post with Neil McKay beaten to the world.

Score-line blank and the elements now favouring the home side, the second-half opened with the Pupils in hot pursuit of the opening goal. The crowd didn't have wait too long, as Paul Grumoli burst down the right flank onto the end of a fine pass. His cross into the box was misjudged at the first attempt by Gary Grumoli; however, the young striker spun around to hammer the ball home at the second attempt.

The home side was forced to defend as Arkleston tried to find a way back into the match; however, a quick counter-attack by the home side produced the day's most telling move. A long clearance found the visitors rearguard short-handed on the defensive right, an eager Gary Grumoli running from deep to threaten goal. Moving the ball to evade a last-ditch tackle, the young striker drove forward to send a powerful strike into the bottom corner of the net.

An instictive save by Neil McKay kept the ship on course, a driven clearance almost rebounding into the net, but for a acrobatic one-handed stop from the Pupils impressive goalkeeper.

Arkleston scored in the 95th minute of the match to reduce the leeway, but it was all to late as the Pupils recorded a well-deserved win, a victory for team effort and determination.

This Saturday the Pupils are at home to champions in waiting, Thorn Athletic. The game will have a 2pm kick-off.

Report taken from Campbeltown Pupils AFC website at http://www.campbeltownpupilsafc.amateurfootballclub.co.uk/index.php?id=news_item&news_id=178