Hamilton Accies boss says his side won't underestimate Musselburgh in cup tie

Hamilton Accies boss John Rankin is keen to avoid a Scottish Cup banana skin and there’s no chance his side will underestimate Musselburgh Athletic on Saturday.

Rankin is aware the pressure will be on Accies to progress from the fourth round, but warns that they will need to be on top form against the East of Scotland Premier Division leaders.

Having struggled to a 2-1 win at Banks O’Dee in the third round, Rankin knows what to expect.

He said: “Musselburgh are top of their division; we have to give them the respect that they deserve, and make sure that come Saturday at 3pm we’re at it, full pelt.

“We will not be under-estimating Musselburgh by any manner of means.

“They’ve got a good young coach [in Liam Brown], they have good players.

“I’ve watched some of their games this season against the likes of Whitburn and Sauchie, and it’s making sure that we’re at it and our attitude is spot on.

“Musselburgh have earned the right to be in this round of the cup. They’ll be coming here looking forward to the game, with nothing to lose, and we need to be at it.

“We need to make sure we do all the right things.

“We played Banks O’Dee in the last round, from a similar level, and it was a tough afternoon.

“We need to make sure our attitude is right, that we apply ourselves properly in the game, and if we do that we give ourselves a good chance.”

Rankin is also eager to progress in the competition.

He said: “A Scottish Cup run is always important. I think it was two seasons ago we got a big tie at home here against Hearts, but the cup can throw up anything.

“We went away to Banks O’Dee, a totally different experience, and playing Musselburgh at home will be a different experience again.

“Putting a run together keeps everything