We welcome West of Scotland Football League side Rutherglen Glencairn to the neutral venue of New Bayview for our first ever tie in the South Challenge Cup (sponsored by Soccer Shop Direct). The Memorial Park surface took a bit of a hammering during the game against Kennoway, and the Executive Committee made the decision to switch the venue in order to ensure this first round fixture was played.

A number of teams from the newly-formed WoSFL have already withdrawn from this competition, and the league, citing ongoing issues with making the season viable during the Covid-19 pandemic; but Glencairn have decided to continue at this stage.

Rutherglen got their league season off to a start just a fortnight ago when they lost narrowly to Hurlford United. Last Saturday, they came from behind to defeat Bonnyton Thistle 2-1, with the goals from Jackson Biggar and Drew Wingate.

The only previous meeting of the clubs came in the second round of the Scottish Junior Cup on 8th November 2003. The game was actually in doubt on the morning of the match due to the volume of leaves on the pitch that had not been cleared away as part of the contract with Fife Council at that time. Fortunately, the committee and a number of volunteers where able to clear the surface in time to allow the tie to proceed.

Mikey Cunningham gave the Hibs the lead from the spot in the 13th minute after Adam Watson had been taken down by Paul McAinsh. The equaliser arrived in the 26th minute when John Boyle rose to head in William Shand’s corner kick. Graeme Dursley and John Dickson had efforts cleared off the line before Shand struck what proved to be the winner in the 65th minute with a 25-yard free -kick.
Thornton Hibs line-up: Danks, Thomson, Cunningham, G.Watson, Dickson, A.Watson, Reid, McAllister, Francis, Dursley, Fraser. Subs: McAinsh, Laird, Hepburn.

Manager Craig Gilbert will be looking for his players to bounce back from last Saturday’s heavy defeat, and what better time than in this cup competition.

There will be extra-time and penalties, as required. The winner of the tie will be at home to Nithsdale Wanderers on a date to be advised.

Match sponsor - MELISSA MCNAB