Ryan Tierney grabbed the headlines in yesterday's Monklands derby, but the on-loan striker's Diamonds story actually began back in 2010.

 

The derby matchwinner, then a fresh-faced 11-year-old, starred in midfield for a hugely successful Airdrie U13s side which also featured striker Jordan Allan.

 

In a glittering season the team won five of the six cups they participated in, catching the eye of scouts from far and wide. The admiration for players such as Tierney and Allan played a big part in the formation of the Airdrieonians Academy in 2011, but Hamilton-based Ryan had already been courted by Hamilton Academical and completed a move to his home town team.

 

Having come through the ranks at New Douglas Park, Ryan has now returned to the Diamonds on loan and announced himself in style yesterday, grabbing the first of his two goals inside three minutes.

 

His former coach at U13 level, Liam Brindle, told airdriefc.com: "Ryan's a smashing kid and he'll do well here.

 

"He shone in a very successful Airdrie youth team, and a lot of clubs were after him back then.

 

"He's moved into a more advanced role with Hamilton, and it's pleasing to see that he still has an eye for goal!"