Rookies ready to take on Rose

Oct 29 2009 by Andrew McGilvray, Hamilton Advertiser

THORNIEWOOD United are backing a treble chance as they gamble on a Scottish Cup run, starting off against one of the country’s top sides in Linlithgow Rose.

Rose have won the competition in recent years and will provide a major hurdle for management rookies John Fallon, Kevin O’Neill and Kieran McGuinness.

It’s a game that will be especially demanding for Fallon and McGuinness, who played for Rose after a spell under Tommy Coyne at Bellshill.

Fallon, son of the former co-boss whose job now takes him to Dubai, said: “My first impression as player-coach has been the different approach to preparing for a game.

“Kieran and I played under Jim Sinnett at Linlithgow and enjoyed a few good cup wins – we just hope we can do what we did against Beith and maybe cause an upset.”

Fallon hopes to join O’Neill in the starting line-up after recovering from injury, but McGuinness is still out and midfielder Eddie Logan is doubtful with an ankle knock.

Also heading feast on cup duty are Forth Wanderers, who are at Carnoustie Panmure.

Forth boss John McGhee said: “They won their last two games 3-2, beating Fauldhouse and then Montrose Roselea, who I know are a fair side – they beat St Roch’s when I was manager last season.”

Meanwhile Lanark United are Glasgow-bound for a tussle against Glasgow Perthshire.

Manager Duncan Sinclair said: “I’ve had them watched and I know we’re in for a hard game on their tight park.”

Hugh Kelly is suspended and Darren Jaffrey is being treated for a hamstring tweak, but looks set to play.

Midfielder Chris Cairney is available after returning from holiday.