First-half goal blitz puts Threave Rovers on the way to cup victory

Another first-half goal blitz set Threave Rovers on the way to victory on Saturday.

They slammed four goals past Finnart in the opening 45 minutes, paving the way for a 5-2 win in the Indigo Comms West of Scotland Cup first round clash.

It came just a week after a 3-0 win at Thorn Athletic, all the goals coming in the opening period.

Caretaker boss Paul McGinley said: “We’ve had seven goals in the first 45 minutes, which has set up the game. After that it’s a case of managing it.

“It’s pleasing to see we’re starting to take the chances we’re creating, which is a massive help. The boys are seeing the fruits of their labours now.

“It’s a big confidence booster. You want your forward players scoring or providing assists for the sake of the team and the individual as it’s a big confidence boost when they can see their numbers going up.”

Threave were in front inside five minutes, Dean Brotherston heading in Liam Park’s cross.

Brotherston doubled the lead after half an hour, completing his hat-trick with a tremendous 30-yard effort a few minutes later.

And when Lewis Sloan scored right on half-time the game was as good as over as a contest.

Finnart got one back with a penalty 15 minutes from time, closing the gap when they headed in their second.

But Brotherston got his fourth and Threave’s fifth after good work from youngster Harry Officer to ensure the points stayed in Castle Douglas.

Threave have their second home game in a row this weekend with Lanark United heading to Meadow Park.

McGinley said: “We’ve had a lot of travelling in the cup, which is a lot of expense, so it’s a great help we’ve had a couple of games at home.

“It’s a bit of an unknown but the beauty of things these days is you can