Match Preview: The ‘Gers v Greenock Morton – Betfred Cup
Competitive action returns to Shielfield Park tomorrow at 3pm as we welcome Greenock Morton F.C as our first opposition in Group F of this years Scottish Betfred Cup 2017/18.
After hosting Morpeth and Hibernian in the last week of preparation, ‘The Gers face a stern test with Jim Duffy’s side coming to town.
Manager John Coughlin will be hoping for a positive start against tough opposition
Greenock were semi-finalists in last year’s competition, eventually being knocked out by runners-up and 2nd placed Scottish Premier League side, Aberdeen in Glasgow. This followed a heroic run that included victories over Dundee United and supplemented their 4th placed finish in the Scottish Championship last season. A season that was acknowledged with experienced manager Duffy being named Scottish Championship Manager of the Year.
Greenock Morton are one of the oldest clubs in Scotland, boasting more promotions and relegations to the top flight than any other club (10 apiece), last hosting top tier football in 1988. They were also runners-up in this competition in 1963/64, which remains their best result to date.
Therefore, this game will represent a significant challenge for Berwick and will give a good indication of how the newly assembled team are faring as the real season takes hold.
It may also present a case of deja vu for followers of both sides as the two teams met at the same stage last year, with Morton prevailing 2-0 at Cappielow Park.
Morton, who boast a settled squad with a couple of additions during the summer, have been in fine form during pre-season with an aggregate score of 9-1 for in the last two friendlies and a total of 14 goals notched as they prepare for the coming season.
Ross Forbes was the leading goalscorer for The Ton last season with 9 league goals, culminating in a nomination for Championship player of the Year and selection in the PFA team of the Year. Ton boss Duffy will also be hoping that Scottish under-21 cap Jai Quintongo will prove a key asset during the season after missing large chunks of last season through injury.
John Coughlin will be missing Michael McKenna, Steven Notman and Kevin McKinlay for the match, all of who are suspended. Darren Lavery is also unavailable.
Get yourselves down to Shielfield Park tomorrow to assist the team in a great curtain raiser for 2017/18. We’re hoping for better than the Group stage last year where The ‘Gers didn’t manage to record a victory and suffered two agonising defeats via the dreaded penalty shoot out.
The other Group F fixture tomorrow is Queen’s Park v Motherwell at 3pm.
We look forward to seeing our supporters and the travelling fans of Morton tomorrow for what promises to be a great game.
Note admission for games in our section are £12 adult £6 conc. Season tickets at all levels inc Junior not valid. Morton fans enter via Gates A to Ducket/Terrace area.
