Helensburgh Old Firm Fans Charity Match

We would like to say thanks to Declan Lally for sending us a £300 donation from The Charity Football Gala Day held in Helensburgh 😊 We really appreciate the support 💚

A fantastic efforts from all involved! 👏⚽

Charity Football Gala Day 2026 – Thank You

As another incredible Charity Football Gala Day comes to a close, we want to say a huge thank you to everyone who helped make this event such a success.

To all of the managers, players, referees, volunteers, sponsors, donors, raffle organisers, prize donors, supporters and everyone who attended – thank you. Your generosity, commitment and support have once again shown what can be achieved when our community comes together for a great cause.

This year, we are proud to have donated:

* £1,500 to Helensburgh & Lomond Foodbank
* £1,500 to Simba – Honouring Baby Loss
* £1,500 to Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS)
* £1,500 to Beatson Cancer Charity
* £1,500 to Parkinson’s UK
* £300 to Women’s Aid Dumbarton
* £300 to Dumbarton Foodbank
* £200 to the British Heart Foundation

Total donated to charity this year £8,300

Over the past three years, together we have now raised an incredible £14,600

Our impact didn’t stop there.

Thanks to your support, we were also able to donate:

* 100 footballs to local children, schools and football clubs.
* 13 pairs of football boots to local youngsters and Street League participants.
* Footballs to Monday Football, Thursday Football and Ardencaple Ladies.

We are delighted that footballs reached so many organisations and groups, including:

Arrochar Primary School, Luss Primary School, Kilcreggan Primary School, Rosneath Primary School, Garelochhead Primary School, Rhu Primary School, Hermitage Primary School, Parklands School, St Joseph’s Primary School, John Logie Baird Primary School, Colgrain Primary School, Cardross Primary School, St Michael’s Primary (Dumbarton), St Patrick’s Primary (Dumbarton), Dalreoch Primary School, Route 81 Youth Project, Helensburgh Helping Others, Helensburgh Foodbank, Dumbarton Foodbank, Lucky 13 Barbershop, Robin House, local nurseries, Helensburgh Library, Helensburgh Scouts, Monty’s Farm, Helensburgh Carers Centre, Hermitage United Girls Team, Hermitage United 2021s, the Children & Family Department, and every child and organisation who received a football.

Seeing the smiles on so many faces reminds us why we do this every year.

Finally, thank you once again to everyone who gave their time, donated money, bought raffle tickets, sponsored the event, played, officiated, volunteered or simply came along to support us. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, has helped make a real difference to people’s lives.

We couldn’t do it without you, and we look forward to making Charity Football Gala Day 2027 even bigger and better.

Kind regards

Declan Lally

Celtic defeat Rangers in thrilling battle for the ‘Walter & Murdo Cup’

Celtic vs Rangers
Saturday 20th June
Helensburgh Rugby Club

Organised by Declan Lally

Match Report

Celtic extended their unbeaten run in the annual meeting between the two sides.
Competing for the first time, to win The Walter Smith & Murdo MacLeod Cup.
Sponsored by Helensburgh Toyota.
Winning the match 2-1, in another memorable chapter of this fantastic fixture.

The Hoops arrived at the match confident, having secured a 4-1 victory last year.
Drawing 3-3 in 2024, when Rangers felt aggrieved after a controversial late equaliser in extra time denied them what looked set to be a deserved victory.

Managed for a third consecutive year by Ryan Phipps and James Petro, Celtic strengthened their squad significantly with the addition of Rhu Colts Player of the Year Paul Cavana, alongside fellow Colts, Cali and Over-35s stars Jack Gorman, Craig Cavana, Keir Wood and Joe Scullion.

There was one notable absentee from the Celtic dugout, with last year’s coach and tactical mastermind Ryan Jones unable to attend following the recent arrival of his baby boy Jesse. Everyone involved with the charity match sends their congratulations to Ryan and his partner Shannon, and wishes the family good health and happiness. We look forward to seeing him back next year.

Celtic changed their tactical approach, moving away from their familiar 4-3-3 formation in favour of a traditional 4-4-2, with Scott Petro and Caleb Phipps leading the line up front.

Meanwhile, Jamie Ireland had his very own “Mo Johnston moment” after switching allegiances from Celtic to Rangers, choosing to work under fellow Scouser Andy Allen and Fiona Sharkey.

Rangers this year recruited big game players in Ross Jeffrey, Adam Daniel, Shaun Wallace and David Sinclair of Rhu Colts / Over-35s.

The opening stages were closely contested, with both sides battling for control. Celtic’s experienced defence of James Baird, Lewis Campbell, Sean Petro and Robert Caldwell once again proved difficult to break down, while last year’s Man of the Match Sean Diamond remained assured between the posts.

The breakthrough finally arrived. A fortunate bounce caught the Rangers defence off guard, allowing Caleb Phipps to pounce. The striker showed excellent composure, dancing through the defenders before calmly slotting home to give Celtic a deserved 1-0 lead.

Rangers responded strongly and found their equaliser through new recruit Adam Daniel. The Rhu Colts man produced the goal of the match, unleashing a stunning effort into the top corner that left Sean Diamond with absolutely no chance. It was a strike worthy of winning any game and brought Rangers level at 1-1.

Adam Sharkey impressed with a solid first half display at right-back as Rangers continued to show signs of the improvement that captain Richie Henry had demanded following previous meetings.

Celtic had a golden opportunity to regain the lead when Rangers goalkeeper Allan Methven brought down Paul Cavana inside the penalty area. Scott Petro stepped up to take the spot kick himself, but Methven redeemed his earlier error with an excellent save to keep the scores level.

With the match seemingly heading towards a penalty shootout, Celtic found the decisive moment. Substitute Iain Matheson, deployed as a powerful central striker, collected the ball on the edge of the area, dropped his shoulder brilliantly to evade the Rangers defence and drilled a low finish into the corner to make it 2-1.

Rangers threw everything forward in search of an equaliser. Brian Harkin came agonisingly close when his effort rattled the crossbar, while Lewis Fagan also saw a free-kick strike the woodwork as Celtic held firm under late pressure.

The only truly fierce challenge of an otherwise sporting contest came when Rangers’ Ali Maule produced a crunching tackle on Joe Scullion. Everyone wishes Joe a speedy recovery.

Celtic’s substitutes also made valuable contributions. Kieran Welsh impressed after coming on and enjoyed the occasion alongside his brother Thomas, who also delivered an excellent performance.

In midfield, however, there was one standout performer. Paul Cavana dominated proceedings throughout, controlling possession and ensuring little got past him all afternoon. His display earned him The Big Taquero “El Taco of the Match”.

At full-time, Celtic celebrated a deserved 2-1 victory, and Celtic captain Karl Johansson was presented The Walter Smith & Murdo MacLeod Cup by Murdo MacLeod and Ethel Smith with assistance from young hoops fan Aidan McCafferty.

A special thank you goes to Ethel Smith, Murdo MacLeod and family for attending the event, participating in the presentation and supporting the day. Everyone involved hopes to welcome them back again in the future.

A huge thank you must also go to referee Baba Sharkey, who officiated the match brilliantly, assisted by Tony McCann and Euan Birss.

Declan Lally would also like to thank Ross Birss, Andy Allen, Dionne Hartley, Jason Hartley and Joe McCafferty for their invaluable assistance in helping organise and set up the event.

The raffle was expertly hosted by Dionne Hartley, Lizanne Lally, Lisa Thomson and Jacqui Diamond.
With thanks to everyone who donated prizes, particularly Willie Currie, Derek Scott, Kieran Welsh, Finn Aitken, Helensburgh Toyota, Ardardan Farm, Townhead Farm, The Big Taquero, Deli in the Square, Superdrug, Boots and Ardencaple FC.

Additional thanks go to Natures Harvest and Townhead Farm for providing the fruit stall, Rachael Keys for supplying sweets and Dino’s ice cream for keeping spectators refreshed throughout the day.

Entertainment was provided by local DJ’s Scott Sinclair, Gordon Trail and Bryan Scott, whose music proved a massive hit with the crowd.

Recognition must also go to Adam Booley for designing the event poster, Christopher Gowling of Applied Design Graphics, Minuteman Press and the team at Fabric & Finery for providing ribbon for the trophies.

A special mention goes to Luke Evans, Richie Evans and Davie Ross for once again sourcing and transporting the goals from Dumbarton Accies FC.

The event was superbly captured by photographers Mackenzie Neilson, Ross Gardner, Martin O’Brien and Kelly Neilson.

Andy, Tom, Warren and all the staff at Helensburgh Rugby Club provided outstanding hospitality throughout the day.

Finally, thank you to every player, volunteer, sponsor and supporter who attended and helped make this year’s event, the biggest one yet! It was a huge success.

The GoFundMe will run until Thursday 9th July, so people of the town have had the chance to read all 3 matches reports and donate.

The target this year was £5,000.
I’m sure it’ll smash that target!

We will also be donating 100 footballs to local kids.

The GoFundMe link below.

https://gofund.me/ea03fc082

The match will return in 2027.

Thanks to our 68 amazing supporters.

Declan Lally

1. Lucky 13 Barbershop
2. Ryan Melville Photography
3. Evans Plumbing & Heating
4. Applied Design Graphics
5. McClay Trophies & Engraving
6. The Royal Bar
7. Taff’s Heating, Plumbing and Electrics
8. ⁠Scottia Barbers
9. MCL Motor Services
10. Bon App&Eat
11. C. Livingston Roofing
12. All The Gear & No Idea Run Club
13. Helensburgh Cycles
14. thirteen hair + beauty
15. Nicola Deeley Hair
16. Hair by Nicola
17. Makeup by Aimee
18. Helen McShane Hair
19. Julie Rebecca Hair
20. KSM Electrical Contractors
21. Humbles Cafe Bistro
22. Ross at Hair Design
23. Andy Allen Painter and Decorator
24. MM Roofing Solution Ltd
25. LRC DETAILING
26. The Mane Man Barbershop
27. The Clyde Bar
28. The Creggans Pub & Grub
29. Black Sails Tattoo Studio
30. Cardross Bowling Club
31. Sugar Boat
32. Helensburgh Toyota
33. Kevin's Barber's
34. CW Limited
35. The Ashton Bar
36. The Journey Fitness
37. The Big Taquero
38. D McKillop Plumbing & Heating Ltd
39. G&S Coyle Fishmonger
40. Riverhill
41. R&R Hair Studio
42. Remap2Race Scotland
43. Superdrug Girls
44. Natures Harvest
45. Townhead Farm
46. The Barber Shop
47. Jim McKenzie Roofing
48. 58N Production Company
49. Flamingo
50. Lido Fish & Chips
51. Tony’s Barbers
52. Deli in the Square
53. NAR Contracts
54. Callaghan Butchers
55. Bridge Street Dental
56. The Ginger Breadman Cafe
57. Mackenzie Neilson Photography
58. Thistle Chiropractic
59. JW Plumbing and Heating
60. Ardardan Estate
61. Sasco Art
62. Lord Loco, Alkimos Alliance
63. Salty Mamas
64. Men Only Barbers
65. J.S ELECTRICS
66. Derek Scott
67. The Grafters Landscaping Ltd
68. Nothing But The Best

Rangers B lift Community Cup after dominant 4-1 victory over Celtic B.

Charity Football Gala Day
Saturday 20th June 2026
Helensburgh Cricket & Rugby Club

Organised by Declan Lally

Match Report

Rangers B were crowned winners of the Community Cup - sponsored by The Royal Bar for the first time after an entertaining 4-1 victory over Celtic B.

Managed by Stephen Hartley, Rangers B produced a dominant display from start to finish, although the scoreline could easily have been even more emphatic.

The action began with Ross Birss finding the net early on, only for referee Tony McCann to rule the effort out for reasons that left many in attendance scratching their heads. Undeterred, Rangers continued to press and eventually got the breakthrough when captain Ross Brodie fired home to make it 1-0.

Ross Birss thought he had doubled the lead shortly afterwards, but his celebrations were cut short again, this time by an offside flag. The striker refused to let frustration get the better of him and eventually got the goal his performance deserved, slotting home to make it 2-0. On another day, Birss could easily have left with a hat-trick.

Rangers’ third goal came courtesy of David Tolhurst, who sent the ball looping over the Celtic goalkeeper. Whether it was a perfectly executed lob or a cross that drifted in remains open for debate, but it counted all the same and put Rangers firmly in control at 3-0.

The pick of the goals followed when left-back Blair Crossan stepped up to deliver a superb free-kick, giving the goalkeeper no chance and extending the lead to 4-0.

With Rangers B completely on top and Celtic B struggling to gain a foothold in the game, the referee brought the first half to a close after just 30 minutes.

Following the interval, Rangers made a number of substitutions which allowed Celtic B, managed by Karl Johansson Snr, to enjoy more possession and territory. Celtic introduced Joe McCafferty in goal for the second half and he responded with an assured display between the posts, keeping Rangers B scoreless after the break.

Celtic B’s goal arrived courtesy of a quality delivery from Chris Lamont, whose cross was met by Liam Gray with a fine header to pull one back and make the score 4-1.

The second half also saw Chris Rice, organiser of the popular Thursday night football, enter the action alongside Stephen Kirk. Both players acquitted themselves well and helped Celtic B enjoy their strongest spell of the game.

One of the most committed challenges of the afternoon came from Celtic’s Craig Kirkpatrick, whose ankle-crunching tackle on Lewis Slee certainly ensured nobody would accuse him of treating the occasion like a friendly.

Despite the rivalry on the pitch, the occasion was played in excellent spirit throughout. One of the day’s special moments saw brothers James, Charles and Corey Livingston all start together for Rangers B, putting in great performances.

Watching proudly from the sidelines were their father, Chico, mother Cathleen, and James and Louise’s new baby boy Charlie.
Making the occasion an even more memorable family affair.

Celtic B, led by captain Jonathan Occhiochiuso (Yoshi), remained gracious and humble in defeat, reflecting the community spirit that made the day such a success.

A special mention also goes to Rangers B goalkeeper Ewan Macfarlane with a commanding display.
Cammy Meredith for his tireless energy in midfield, Aidan Birss for his involvement in 2 of the Rangers goals and Ross McKechnie for another solid contribution to the cause.

The Big Taquero’s - ‘El Taco of The Match’ was then presented to Muj Hussain, who alongside Jason Hartley put in a strong performance at the back.

At full time, Rangers B were presented with the Community Cup sponsored by The Royal Bar, securing the trophy for the first time and capping off a memorable afternoon with a deserved victory.

The Community Cup paid tribute to Euan Birss and Sam Gemmell for services to football in the community.
Next year will see the introduction of the U21’s fixture, where the cup will be battled for once again!

Thank you to Tony McCann, Baba Sharkey and Euan Birss for refereeing the fixture.

We would also like to thank Andy, Tom and Warren of the Helensburgh Rugby Club for hosting our B match for the first time.

The event was superbly captured by photographers Mackenzie Neilson, Martin O’Brien and Kelly Neilson.

Players, supporters and organisers gathered together for a well earned pint - before watching Celtic vs Rangers followed by the Rangers / Celtic Women’s 7’s.

Building the Gala Day
The Rangers B vs Celtic B fixture was introduced by Declan Lally as a way of getting more people involved in the Charity Football Gala Day and giving additional players the opportunity to take part.

The growth of the event has been remarkable, with participation increasing from 36 players across one men’s game to 72 players across two men’s fixtures, highlighting the continued growth of community football in Helensburgh.

Anyone interested in playing friendly football on Monday or Thursday evenings in Helensburgh is encouraged to get in touch with Declan via Declan Lally Barber on Facebook or Instagram for more information.

The GoFundMe will close on Thursday 9th July.
https://gofund.me/eb590f9e0

The match will return in 2027.

Ardencaple Ladies take part in Rangers vs Celtic Charity Football Gala Day.

Match Report
Saturday 20th June
Helensburgh Rugby Club.

Ardencaple Ladies were delighted to take part in the Rangers vs Celtic Charity Football Gala Day for the first time, competing for The Fiona Sharkey & Jacqui Diamond Community Cup.

The event, sponsored by Taff’s Heating, Plumbing and Electrics, was organised by Ardencaple Ladies alongside Euan Birss, Ross Birss, Lynsey Birss and Declan Lally. The day raised money for a number of local and national charities.

Current Ardencaple players, along with several former players from the club’s youth section, were split into teams representing Rangers and Celtic supporters.

The match was fiercely contested throughout, providing plenty of entertainment for the spectators and showcasing the quality of talent on display.

The Rangers side established control in the early stages and created several promising chances. Celtic defended resolutely during the opening 10 minutes, but Rangers eventually found the breakthrough before adding two more goals before half-time.

The second half continued in a similar fashion, with Rangers maintaining their momentum and adding further goals to secure a convincing victory.

Emma Connor and Catriona McCallister were both on the scoresheet for Rangers.

Celtic produced some encouraging moments after the break, with Sharon Leishman, Lynsey Birss and Maisy Petro providing excellent through balls and creating attacking opportunities. However, they were ultimately unable to find a way back into the match.

It was a family affair, with mother and daughter Kayra Beck and Cassie Beck representing Celtic - both producing impressive performances. Rangers were represented by sisters Seren Galliers and Tegan Galliers, who linked up well throughout the match.

Emma Connor won The Big Taquero “El Taco of the Match”.

The match was expertly refereed by Karl Johansson Snr, who did an excellent job in ensuring the game was played in the right spirit.

Following the final whistle, Fiona Sharkey and Jacqui Diamond presented the Community Cup to the victorious Rangers team, bringing a memorable afternoon of football to a fitting conclusion.

The event was a tremendous success, raising valuable funds for charity while bringing together current and former players for a fantastic afternoon of football and community spirit.

A special thank you goes to Ross Biagi of MCL Motor Services with assistance from Declan Lally for transporting the goals that were provided by Rhu Colts for the match.

The event was superbly captured by photographers Mackenzie Neilson, Ross Gardner, Martin O’Brien and Kelly Neilson.

Ardencaple Ladies train twice a week at Hermitage Academy.
Anyone interested in joining the team can contact Sharon Leishman on 07921 081829.
Players of all abilities are welcome.

The GoFundMe will close on Thursday 9th July.
https://gofund.me/f3af73fc3

Charity Football Gala Day 2026
https://gofund.me/d687304c7

Rangers Fans vs Celtic Fans
Helensburgh Cricket & Rugby Club
Saturday 20th June from 11am

Back by popular demand, the Rangers vs Celtic Charity Football Match returns for its third year — bringing together 86 local players from across the Helensburgh area for a fantastic day of football, community spirit, and fundraising.

This year is our biggest event yet, with three matches taking place for the first time ever to give even more people the chance to get involved!

Match Schedule

Rangers B vs Celtic B — KO 12pm
Competing for the Euan Birss & Sam Gemmell Community Cup
Sponsored by The Royal Bar

Celtic vs Rangers — KO 2pm
(Rhu Amateurs FC / last year’s teams)
Competing for the Walter Smith & Murdo MacLeod Cup
Sponsored by Helensburgh Toyota

Rangers Women’s vs Celtic Women’s — KO 4pm
Competing for the Fiona Sharkey & Jacqui Diamond Community Cup
Sponsored by Taff’s Heating, Plumbing & Electrics

Supporting five incredible charities
We are proud to be raising money for:

* Helensburgh & Lomond Foodbank
* Simba – supporting families after the loss of their baby
* CHAS (Children’s Hospices Across Scotland)
* Beatson Cancer Charity
* Parkinson’s UK

Every donation — big or small — will help support the amazing work these charities do every day.

Team Management

Rangers
Managed by Fiona Sharkey, Andy Allen, Stewart Maule, and Declan Lally

Celtic
Managed by Ryan Phipps, James Petro, and Ryan Jones

Rangers B
Managed by Steph Hartley

Celtic B
Managed by Karl Johansson

Referees
Baba Sharkey, Tony McCann, Euan Birss, and Karl Johansson

What to Expect on the Day

Football
BBQ
Bar
️Prizes to be won
Music

A brilliant family day out with plenty happening on and off the pitch.

Help Us Reach Our Goal

Last year’s event was a huge success, and this year we’re aiming to raise over £5,000 for charity.

If you can attend, donate, sponsor, or simply share this page, it would mean the world to everyone involved.

If you’re unable to make the event in person, please consider making an online donation through GoFundMe and helping us support these incredible causes.

A massive THANK YOU to our 68 local sponsors and to everyone giving up their time to help make the day possible.

Let’s come together once again for a fantastic cause and a memorable day for the local community.

— Declan Lally

1. Lucky 13 Barbershop
2. Ryan Melville Photography
3. Evans Plumbing & Heating
4. Applied Design Graphics
5. McClay Trophies & Engraving
6. The Royal Bar
7. Taff’s Heating, Plumbing and Electrics
8. Scottia Barbers
9. MCL Motor Services
10. Bon App&Eat
11. C. Livingston Roofing
12. All The Gear & No Idea Run Club
13. Helensburgh Cycles
14. thirteen hair + beauty
15. Nicola Dealey Hair
16. Hair by Nicola
17. Makeup by Aimee
18. Helen McShane Hair
19. Julie Rebecca Hair
20. KSM Electrical Contractors
21. Humbles Cafe Bistro
22. Ross at Hair Design
23. Andy Allen Painter and Decorator
24. MM Roofing Solution Ltd
25. LRC DETAILING
26. The Mane Man Barbershop
27. The Clyde Bar
28. The Creggans Pub & Grub
29. Black Sails Tattoo Studio
30. Cardross Bowling Club
31. Sugar Boat
32. Helensburgh Toyota
33. Kevin's Barber's
34. CW Limited
35. The Ashton Bar
36. The Journey Fitness
37. The Big Taquero
38. D McKillop Plumbing & Heating Ltd
39. G&S Coyle Fishmonger
40. Riverhill
41. R&R Hair Studio
42. Remap2Race Scotland
43. Superdrug Girls
44. Natures Harvest
45. Townhead Farm
46. The Barber Shop
47. Jim McKenzie Roofing
48. 58N Production Company
49. Flamingo
50. Lido Fish & Chips
51. Tony’s Barbers
52. Deli in the Square
53. NAR Contracts
54. Callaghan Butchers
55. Bridge Street Dental
56. The Ginger Breadman Cafe
57. Mackenzie Neilson Photography
58. Thistle Chiropractic
59. JW Plumbing and Heating
60. Ardardan Estate
61. Sasco Art
62. Lord Loco, Alkimos Alliance
63. Salty Mamas
64. Men Only Barbers
65. J.S ELECTRICS
66. Derek Scott
67. The Grafters Landscaping Ltd
68. Nothing But The Best
(Adult & Kids Football Kits)