It’s the start of SPFL teams getting all serious about the Scottish Cup as all 10 SPFL League Two teams enter the competition. Here’s a very quick rundown of where the likely points of interest may be…
Likely to be upsets…
Partly due to their own form and also because they are facing teams with very decent pedigrees the following ties are ones which would hardly surprise me if they involved a cup shock! Albion Rovers v Spartans has one of the best run clubs in the country visiting Coatbridge and should make a very decent contest of things. Jim Chapman’s Annan have stuttered this year though their cup from in the Ramsdens has been decent I expect Buckie Thistle v Annan Athletic to take its toll. Finally Queen’s Park v Preston Athletic should have been a stroll on Hampden’s turf for the Spiders… until this season. Now Gardner Speirs will be dreading each game unless they can score early, settle nerves and progress.
Even contests
The obviously hard one to call is the all league 2 contest – Berwick Rangers v Peterhead. Ian Little’s side have been putting in some decent performance and Jim McInally’s team are no slouches though they have struggled a little of late! I also think it will be an interesting contest in Gala Fairydean v Clyde. Jim Duffy’s side have not had a decent run at things so could find this a lot trickier than you would think.
Should go to plan…
Dalbeattie Star v Montrose ought to be straight forward for Stuart Garden’s men whilst Keith v Elgin City has that Highland ring to it. Ross Jack will surely have enough to motor on through. Finally Stirling Albion v Whitehill Welfare sees Greg MacDonald’s side having respite from league business that should be an exercise in confidence building and getting into the next round.
