Accies’ date with destiny looms

Apr 17 2008 By Andy McGilvray

HAMILTON Accies could be on the verge of sealing the First Division title and gaining promotion to the top flight for the first time in 19 years – but boss Billy Reid is taking  nothing for granted.

A win against Clyde at New Douglas Park this Saturday will see Hamilton crowned champions, regardless of how second-placed Dundee fare at Queen of the South.

Reid knows his young side will be under pressure, but feels they will be able to meet expectations.

He said: “If we win the game we’re champions – it’s as simple as that.

“It won’t be easy, there’s a bit of history between Clyde and Hamilton Accies, as we all know, but as we’ve said all along – it’s in our own hands.

“It’s down to one game, and I’ve got a belief in them to go on and finish the job.

They’re growing in stature every week, they’re fantastic young players, and they have a bit of experience now as well.

“We know it’s not going to be easy.

“We’ll take nothing for granted until we’re over the line.

“Dundee keep on winning and all credit to them as well – but hopefully we handle the occasion, and we should be able to.

“If we play to our potential then we can win the game – but I’m sure Clyde will have something to say about that.

“But we can’t ask for any more than a home tie, especially with our form at New Douglas Park.”

Reid was delighted with Saturday’s 3-1 win over Livingston at Almondvale, courtesy of goals by Richard Offiong, James McArthur and Simon Mensing, and felt his side were deserved winners.

He added: “We felt that we hadn’t played too well against Livingston this season and had a point to prove. I think we did that, and that was our motivation before the game.

“We knew it was going to be difficult because Livingston have caused us  problems this season, and they did again in the last 20 minutes.

“But for the first 60 minutes we were outstanding. We got a wee break when the ball hit the crossbar, but I think we deserved that.

“I thought we were great, scored some good goals, and although it got a bit nervy towards the end, I thought we were worthy winners.

“It’s all about winning football matches and it doesn’t matter how we win them.”

Reid is one of four nominees for the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA), Manager of the Year Award, which will be announced on Sunday.

Midfielder James McArthur is also in the running for First Division Players’ Player of the year.

lShould Hamilton win the league on Saturday, coverage will be available that evening at: www.hamiltonadvertiser.co.uk