Underdogs tag will suit Neilston fine

Oct 6 2012 by Paul Behan, Paisley Daily Express

Neilston manager Robert Fox reckons the tag of underdogs will suit his team fine this afternoon.

Fox’s side has the unenviable task of trying to cause a West of Scotland Cup first round upset at Newlandsfield, home of Junior giants Pollok.

The teams were paired together in the second round draw of the Emirates Junior Cup last weekend and today’s clash is a dress rehearsal, of sorts, for that particular meeting.

‘Ton boss Fox said: “Pollok have some great front men like Carlo Monti and the boy Willie Sawyers, who they signed from Renfrew.

“But they have two other great forwards who can score goals, so we know it’s going to be difficult.

“We’re not expected to win. We’re the underdogs, but I like that tag. People think Pollok just need to turn up and they’ll win.

“I need to change that mind set among our players. I need to give them the belief that they can go there and cause an upset.

“It’s not ideal playing this game, because we won in the league last weekend and I’d much rather have played another league game in order to give us some momentum, but it’s not to be.

“Having said that, the West of Scotland Cup is a break from the league, and we’ll go there and try to express ourselves, because there is no pressure on the lads.”

Fox does have question marks over a number of players, including Allan Evans who has a thigh injury, while Martin Hughes is suspended.

Striker Andy Essler has a back problem and is a doubt, while Andy Whiteford could be unavailable due to work commitments.

Kick-off at Newlandsfield is 2pm.

As for Johnstone Burgh, George Walker’s side entertain Superleague First Division side Largs Thistle this afternoon – also in the West Cup.

Burgh were deprived of competitive football last weekend, as their game with Royal Albert was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

Walker, though, took the time to spy on today’s opponents, and he knows his side is in for a tough afternoon.

He said: “It’s a very difficult game because Largs are a very competent team, and they knock the ball about well.

“I watched them beat Perthshire 3-1 last week, and while I’m not sure what system they’ll play this week, we’re in for a tough match.”

Walker also has a few selection problems to contend with as Grant Kelly, Neil Dinnen, Gordon Chalmers and Mick McGarry are all carrying knocks.

“We’re down to the bare bones,” revealed Walker.

“We may only have around 15 or 16 players for Saturday. But if we can apply ourselves, then hopefully we’ll give Largs a good game.”

Kick-off at Keanie Park is 2pm.

Arthurlie are seeking better fortunes after struggling somewhat in their league campaign, and are also on West of Scotland Cup duty as they make the trip to Port Glasgow.

Although ‘The Undertakers’ are two divisions below the Barrhead club, manager Mark Cameron and his players won’t treat the Inverclyde side lightly.

Kick-off at the Community Park is also 2pm.

William Hill latest odds: Johnstone Burgh 9/2, Largs 2/5, draw 10/3: Pollok 1/6, Neilston 8/1, draw 11/2: Port Glasgow 6/1, Arthurlie 1/4, draw 9/2.