Drumchapel United 90 minutes from Scottish Cup as boss urges West of Scotland new boys to seize glory

Drumchapel United can clinch a spot in next season’s senior Scottish Cup this afternoon - in their first full season as a West of Scotland League club.

The Drum face Nithsdale Wanderers in the newly-formed round robin format Cup Winners’ Shield in Sanquhar.

And having beaten Crossgates Primrose 2-1 last week the Drum - managed by Adam Hopes and ex-Hamilton ace Darian MacKinnon - know one more win will secure a lucrative entry to the country’s premier cup competition.

Hopes said: “It’s a massive incentive for us and would make up for the blow of losing the league title to Petershill in the final five minutes of the season.

“Petershill hadn’t been top all season but had to win their last game by two goals against Perthshire and got an 85th minute penalty to do just that. It was a bit of a sickener for us.

“Despite that it’s been a great first season. We won the Strathclyde Cup to qualify for this competition and if we can take that final step and reach next season’s Scottish Cup it would make the world of difference.

“We are the new kids on the block so it would be a successful season.

“We’ve a great squad of players who buy into what we are trying to do. I’ve got good coaches in Darian and Willie Dyer and the boys have produced the goods.

“This game will determine how we recruit for next season - will it be to try and win the championship or to do that and also try to get through a few rounds of the Scottish Cup.

“It’s massive for us.”

Meanwhile Darvel boss Mick Kennedy has urged his side to complete a spectacular turnaround by clinching the West of Scotland Premier League title in front of their loyal fans this afternoon.

The Ayrshire side need just one win from their final two matches to take the inaugural crown -