Following Pollok’s cup draws yesterday in the Soccer Shop Challenge Cup, Lok boss Murdo MacKinnon gave his reaction to the official website.
Murdie said: “We are absolutely delighted to be a part of our first Soccer Shop Challenge Cup draw. We look forward to the new challenges we will face and look forward to our future as a senior club.”
Looking at the 1st Round pairing with Tranent Juniors, he said: “We didn’t have to wait long to hear our name, being the first club out in the draw. Tranent are a very good side and this will be a tough tie for both sides.
“It promises to be an excellent tie, potentially the tie of the first round. I’m delighted to be drawn at home.”
“Newlandsfield is looking tremendous and it will be a fitting venue. Myself and Tranent manager Johnny Harvey have crossed swords before in the Scottish Junior Cup when we were at Irvine Meadow and Penicuik respectively.
“I know his teams are always well organised and he likes to play an attacking style so they will obviously get our full attention and respect in the build up to this tie. We are an excellent team ourselves so I am sure that Johnny and his staff will do likewise.
“We will obviously look to go out and win the game at home, we have added further quality to our squad and improved from last season so it makes for a great game.”
Pollok were also pulled out of the hat for the 2nd Round – with 128 teams and 64 ties it was the biggest Senior Cup draw since the 1st Qualifier of the Scottish Cup in 1893-94! The winner of the Lok v Tranent tie will be away to Ardeer Thistle. Of that tie, Murdie said:
“It’s definitely not one to be taken for granted – potentially a dangerous game for either ourselves or Tranent as Ardeer will be extremely difficult opponents. They will be a young side with a sprinkling of experience throughout.”
“I am sure they will be full of energy and running which will make them extremely competitive and as I say a dangerous opponent.”
“Overall, I am very excited about the draw and looking forward to participating in the competition for the first time!”
The ties are due 24th October and 21st November, subject to the return to football going ahead as planned. From a footballing perspective, Murdie has loved having the players back together again. “It’s great to be back out on the pitch with all the lads. It’s been brilliant so far,” he added.