IT was a match born of hard work, community spirit and a desire to provide the best footballing experiences for the next generation of Peebles.

Rovers and Celtic Football Club clashed for the fourth time in the two clubs’ histories, recording one of the largest gates seen at Whitestone Park this century with an estimated 500 spectators filling the Alec Lucas Stand and the surrounding area.

It was a scene that delighted Rovers boss Ger Rossi.

He told us: “One thing we said about this game is that it was a spectacle for the community.

"I think a couple of years ago we wouldn’t even have been able to imagine Glasgow Celtic coming to town.

“I think we all saw tonight how far this team has come, and wherever these boys go in their careers as they progress, I really hope they all remember and treasure the memories.

“It all came together tonight from the hard work of the guys on the committee with the help provided by Peebles Rugby Club.

"We also owe a lot to Rab Thompson from Celtic for helping to bring the team down to Whitestone Park.”

Rovers held their own for much of the match against a Celtic team comprised of players in the Scotland youth ranks, with Ross Lamb bagging a terrific goal in the second-half to spark frenzied celebrations in the Alec Lucas Stand.

It was a performance that the Rovers boss believes was one of the best from his young team, praising the players for their heroic efforts in the match.

He added: “We lost an early goal but that’s nit-picking.

"After that we settled down and we really began to enjoy ourselves.

"We didn’t just play against Celtic, we also competed and it was once again a testament to how far this team has come.

“Ross Lamb steps up with a thunderous free-kick and that was the icing on the cake.

"It was a great occasion, the boys gave absolutely everything out there tonight and we’re all very proud.”