Formartine United caused a cup upset in the Scottish Bells Challenge Cup, defeating Montrose 3-2 in a five-goal thriller at North Lodge Park on 23 September 2026. The Highland League side produced a brave, high-tempo display and held off a late Montrose comeback to secure a memorable win. In a tie full of momentum swings, Formartine’s set-piece threat and finishing in key moments proved the difference.

Match overview

Formartine started with real intensity, pressing Montrose high and forcing errors in the visitors’ defensive third. The opener came from that pressure, and when Montrose equalised, Formartine responded immediately rather than retreating. They led 3-1 at one stage, only for Montrose to pull one back and set up a tense finish. The final minutes were played almost entirely in Formartine’s half, but the home defence threw bodies in front of shots and survived a series of late crosses.

Key moments

• 14th minute: Formartine took the lead when Scott Lisle fired home from the edge of the box after a half-cleared corner.
• 27th minute: Montrose equalised through Graham Webster, who finished neatly after a well-worked move down the left.
• 41st minute: Formartine regained the lead when a deep free-kick was headed in at the back post.
• 63rd minute: A quick counter-attack made it 3-1, with Formartine’s striker rounding the goalkeeper and rolling the ball into an empty net.
• 78th minute: Montrose pulled one back from the penalty spot, setting up a nervy final period.
• 90+4: Formartine’s goalkeeper made a crucial save from a close-range header to preserve the win.

Tactical story

Formartine’s game plan was built on energy and direct play. They looked to win second balls in midfield and deliver early crosses into the box. Montrose, technically strong in possession, struggled with the pace of Formartine’s attacking transitions. The visitors improved after the break and dominated territory, but Formartine’s defenders defended their penalty area with real commitment. The home side’s ability to score from set pieces was ultimately the decisive factor.

Standout players

Scott Lisle set the tone with the opening goal and was a constant outlet on the left. Formartine’s midfield captain covered every blade of grass, breaking up play and starting counters. The goalkeeper’s late save was as important as any goal. For Montrose, Graham Webster was their most dangerous player, linking midfield and attack and scoring a well-taken equaliser. Their substitute forward also made an impact, winning the penalty and causing problems with his movement.

What the result means

This 3-2 victory is a significant result for Formartine United, showcasing the strength of the Highland League against SPFL opposition. It sends them into the next round with belief and gives the club another highlight in the Scottish Bells Challenge Cup. Montrose will be frustrated to exit after creating enough chances to force extra time, but they will take encouragement from their second-half response. For Formartine, the challenge now is to carry this cup form into their league fixtures.