Alba draw gives chance to settle old scores

Published on Tuesday 27 July 2010 19:24

THERE was a feeling of déjà vu at the second round draw of the Alba Challenge as Ross County and Morton, along with Dunfermline Athletic and Queen of the South, were paired against each other for a third season running.

Partick Thistle will also host Berwick Rangers for a second year in succession after the draw was made at Hampden yesterday afternoon.

Recently-installed Morton manager Allan Moore said: "That will be the third year in a row that Morton have gone up there in this competition and I know that they have lost the last two. Apart from that, my last visit to Ross County was not that successful, although it turned out to be a turning point in Stirling's season."

County boss Derek Adams said: "We may have won the last two games but that does not count for anything. Morton will be out to make an impression under their new manager so we will have to prepare for that."

Queen of the South full back Bob Harris commented: "We have won the last two ties at East End Park and will be out to do the same this time out. It is a hard tie being away from home to a First Division side but we know we can win."

And Stenhousemuir assistant boss Matt Kerr was delighted that the cup fighting tradition of the Warriors will be tested against holders Dundee. Kerr said: "We wanted a big team at home so we are delighted with the draw. We will look to out on a good show against them."

Alba Challenge Cup second round

Queen's Park v Forfar

Ayr United v Cowdenbeath

Ross County v Morton

Partick Thistle v Berwick

Dunfermline v QoS

Stenhousemuir v Dundee

Peterhead v East Stirling East Fife v Stirling Albion

Ties to be played Tuesday 10 and Wednesday 11 August