Police launch match-fixing probe after Hawick's Scottish Cup defeat

Published on Tuesday 29 September 2009 12:00

POLICE are investigating claims of match-fixing in a Scottish Cup first round match.

A complaint has been made to Lothian and Borders Police following Hawick Royal Albert's 7 - 0 defeat to league rivals Huntly.

It is alleged that a high number of bets were placed on the East of Scotland First Division side loosing by that scoreline at

odds of around 50 - 1.

Alongside betting on the score, a number of punters are also believed to have bet on Hawick conceding a penalty in the first half of the match.

Defender Gavin Watson was sent off after giving away a penalty by deliberately tipping the ball over the bar with his hand.

Club secretary Dougie Purves said he was unaware of the allegations.

An SFA spokesman said that they would cooperate fully with any investigation.

Hawick were founded in 1847 and are currently bottom of the East of Scotland Football League's First Division having picked up one point in seven games.