Shotts Bon Accord set to dish out 'trialists' chances as season approaches conclusion

Shotts Bon Accord boss John McKeown hopes a West of Scotland Football League Cup tie with Premier Division club Darvel can stop his side’s season from petering out.

Kyle Richford’s goal sent them in 1-0 up at the break before Ardeer Thistle hit back through Marc Wardrope in their second round clash at Hannah Park.

Scott Faulds had been sent off in the first half to leave McKeown’s men down to 10 for the majority of proceedings, but they still managed to get ahead again through Andy Muir.

Sean McGreer levelled things up again for Thistle before Shotts prevailed 3-1 on penalty kicks.

When their next cup game will be scheduled is unknown due to Darvel’s hectic Premier Division schedule, but it’s a game the Bonny are looking forward to.

He said: “In the league we have been trying different things out, playing a few trialists and a few of our under 20s. The cup has probably taken on a bit more importance.

“Realistically, we’re not going to move from second place so it’s nice to get through in the cup and get a big tie against Darvel in the next round.

“The boys got a taste of it earlier in the Scottish Junior Cup against Auchinleck Talbot, with a big crowd. It will be lovely to have that again.

“It extends the season and it’s good for the boys to keep the season going. Boys are playing for contracts and I am looking to play some more trialists.”