Rising Star

Gretna forward Liam Cusack has been named Clydesdale Bank Premier League Under 19 Rising Star for November.

Liam enjoyed a terrific month for his club in the Under 19 League and was nominated by the opposing coaches as man of the match in two of his three games in November, scoring in the 4-2 defeat to Hibs.

In addition to his good league form, Liam also netted in Gretna’s 5-1 SFA Youth Cup Third round victory over Ayr United.

“We only had a couple of league games last month, so it’s good to know that I was recognised in both,” he said.

“It’s the first award I’ve had at this level, so I’m really pleased to win it.”

Coach Andy Smith added: “There are lots of good young players in the SPL Under19 league and for Liam to get this award is fantastic.”

“I know Brooks was very proud to see Liam win it, and is pleased with the way things are going at Under 19 level.”

Liam, from Glasgow, has had an eventful campaign so far, playing an influential part in Gretna’s inaugural season in the Clydesdale Bank U19 League. The award is also deserved recognition of Liam’s recent return to form after a period out with a broken metatarsal.

The Rising Star award is a monthly award voted for by the Under 19 coaches at each of the 12 Clydesdale Bank Premier League clubs.

Coaches nominate a man of the match from the opposing team for all of their Under 19 League matches. At the end of each month, the player with the most nominations wins the award.