Match Preview: Berwick Rangers v Hawick Royal Albert – William Hill Scottish Cup
Manager John Coughlin is hoping his side can avoid the same complacency which saw them receive a shock against Spartans at Shielfield Park earlier in the season as his side host Lowland League Hawick Royal Albert tomorrow.
On the clash, Coughlin stated that he expects his side to overcome Hawick, but also expressed his belief that it may be the mental aspect of the game that could win the tie for Berwick. “There’ll be no excuses if we lose it, put it that way. We should win this tie – if we play well and they play well, we should still be the better side.
“Myself and the coaching staff need to make sure we get the right attitude out of the players. A good cup run could be really valuable for us going forward and may increase our budget going into January, so it’s important we fulfil our potential in this game.
“It’s a Borders derby, we’ve had them watched, we know there’s a connection with some of their players and we know they’ll be well up for it. But if we can get it right mentally we should get the right result.”
Hawick boast former ‘Gers such as striker Josh Morris amongst their ranks, whilst Thomas Crease is a relative of former ‘Gers boss and club director Jimmy Crease.
Matchday:
From 1pm until 6pm during Saturday’s Scottish Cup games every ground hosting a Scottish Cup Second Round game will have a custom Snapchat Geofilter that can be used by fans on Snapchat.
Fans can take advantage of a generous offer from the Red Lion (Berwick), who are kindly putting on soup and a variety of other free food for supporters of both the home and away sides when purchasing a drink. With AFC Bournemouth v Tottenham Hotspur on the telly, there’ll also be some Premier League football on the box to enjoy whilst building up to the big one!
Ben Stirling is back in contention after a 2 month lay-off
Team News:
There is rare relief for boss John Coughlin heading into tomorrow’s game. Not only is he bolstered by the arrival of new signing Greg Rutherford, who Coughlin admits may feature at some point tomorrow, but he is also boosted by the return of 3 players.
Ben Stirling makes a long-awaited return from an injury picked up whilst playing for his parent club Hibernian in Development League action, whilst Lee Hamilton has also recovered from a groin injury. Michael McKenna’s suspension does not apply for Scottish Cup games, and so he is eligible to feature.
Kevin McKinlay is out, serving the first of a two-match ban for a red card picked up in Stirling last weekend, whilst captain Jonny Fairbairn is also suspended after picking up a red card in last season’s Scottish Cup campaign.
Match Admission:
The club are pleased to offer all fans reduced admission for this clash.
Adults – £10
Concessions – £5
Under 16’s – FREE
Match Odds:
Scottish Cup title sponsors William Hill have priced the ‘Gers as heavy favourites to progress to Round 3.
Berwick Rangers – 1/4
Draw – 9/2
Hawick Royal Albert – 6/1
Match Officials:
Mike Roncone will be assisted by Stephen Mitchell and Euan Birch for the cup tie.
