Arbroath not relying on league form for cup clash

THE skipper of Scottish Cup ­favourites Arbroath admitted his side will have to be at their best to live up to the tag when they face Stoneywood-Dyce in the quarter finals.

With several big guns out of the tournament – including holders Heriot’s – the stage is set for a series of intriguing last-eight ties, not least the visit of Marc Petrie and his troops to Peoples Park.

Elsewhere next Sunday, ­revived giants Ferguslie are on home turf to take on old rivals Clydesdale, captained by one of their former stars, Majid Haq, while Grange welcome ­Aberdeenshire.

And Carlton, who triumphed in the group decider at West of Scotland, face Drumpellier at Grange Loan. But for Petrie, the quest is on to complete a ­Premiership and cup double.

He insisted league form will count for little when they make the hop to Aberdeen, saying: “We always find them tough ­opponents, especially at their place where we haven’t had a great record over the years.

“Our guys are looking ­forward to the challenge and whatever the outcome, I think the ­spectators will be guaranteed some entertaining cricket.

“If we can keep performing the way we have been doing so far this season we should be ­favourites.

“It is all about everyone contributing to the cause.”

Despite already having ­qualified, Petrie’s side maintained the momentum on Saturday by demolishing Stirling County at Lochlands, though he was less than delighted with an uncharacteristically sloppy ­fielding display.

The defeat at Dumfries for a depleted Heriot’s outfit paved the way for Ferguslie to win their section in the wake of their convincing success over ­Falkland.

Spokesman Michael English said: “Everyone at the club is thrilled to bits after events at the weekend.

“After a tough few years, things are looking good with several young players coming through strongly. I have to give special mention to Hamza Tahir, who has been bowling ­unbelievably well.

“I am also chuffed with my own form and it means a lot to be able to contribute with bat and ball.

“Taking on Dale at Meikleriggs is certainly an exciting ­prospect.”

George Munsey was robbed of a century by only three runs in Grange’s six-wicket triumph over Renfrew at Raeburn Place.

East Kilbride’s hopes of sneaking through were snuffed out as Clydesdale got the win they needed at home to SMRH.

While Arbroath were already home and dry in Group B, ­Forfarshire made sure of the runners up slot thanks to a ­superb unbeaten 117 by captain Craig Wallace, who was ­supported strongly by Matty Parker (88).