Stage set for cracking final

Jamie MacDonald 1595 - 1595 • Last updated 25 Mar 2009 12:54 0 Comments

TWO Clackmannanshire clubs have won their way through to the final of the Donald McNair Scottish Welfare Cup.

The stage is now set for a great match between Sauchie side Oakwood and Tullibody"s Abercromby Arms, scheduled for Alloa Athetic"s Recreation Park on Saturday 18 April.

Both clubs deserve credit for their endeavour this season which once again underlines the talent available in the Forth Valley Welfare League.

Oakwood have vowed not to be too disheartened by their exit in the forth round of the Scottish Daily Record Cup on Sunday in Aberdeen.

They fell 3-0 to Girdlecross Gunners in the Granite City but are determined to bounce back in the final of the other national trophy.

Speaking to the Advertiser on Sunday evening following the journey home, Oakwood team manager Tom Bell said, 'We didn"t play our best - perhaps it was just a blip on the day.

'But we now have time to think seriously about facing Abercromby in the other final.

'They are a really good team and in previous meetings we have always respected each other.

'I feel this will be a cracking game and it is good to see two clubs from the Forth Valley reaching the Scottish final.'

Last season Oakwood did very well to reach the final of the Daily Record and Templeton Cup so their track record is good.

To reach this season"s final Oakwood knocked out Merkinch 3-0 in the first round, beat Blacksmith by the odd goal in three in the second, then travelled to Blairhall to win 5-2 in the next round.

The recent 1-0 victory over Bellslea set Oakwood up for their final place.

Tullibody Abercromby will go into the final on 18 April knowing they have never beaten Oakwood in any competition.

But their team manager Steph Gavin is confident this time. He said, 'We have still to beat them so I feel now is the time to do it.

'We were formed only four years ago and I feel confident of victory. All our players are Tullibody based which helps.'

Looking back to a couple of years ago in the Daily Record Cup, Steph said, 'We lost 1-0 to St Ninians in the final of the Daily Record Cup at Beechwood Park so we want to make sure this time.'

Assessing his squad for the big match Steph added, 'We have many good players.

'Our keeper Alex Fyfe is a former Kincardine Boys Club lad and a real quality goalkeeper.

'Tony Paterson controls our back-line while captain Kenny Dawson is the man in charge of central midfield.'

But perhaps the vital spark in the side is their scorer. Steph said, 'We are fortunate to have Danny Kazsta up front because he has scored 30 goals already this season.

'I feel there will be a big crowd on 18 April - mainly from Tullibody.

'We are grateful to Abercromby manager Greig McMillan for his wondeful backing.

'He foots the bill for buses to away matches and provides hospitality after the games in the Abercromby.'

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This article appeared in Alloa & Hillfoots Advertiser 26 Mar 09

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