Arniston boss fears another cup call-off

The third-round tie was called off last Saturday and is in doubt again following this week’s heavy rain. Osbourne is fearing a backlog of games will hinder his side’s bid to climb up the Premier Division table. And he’s keen for Rangers to get back playing again as quick as possible so that they can get a horror show out of their system.

“We were doing okay until we took our eye off the ball against Downfield and were punished for it, losing 4-0 at home,” said Osbourne. “The whole team underperformed and we got what we deserved, to be honest.

“I was looking for a big reaction from the players, so it was a nightmare when last Saturday’s game was called off and, with the weather having been even worse this week, it’s not looking very good for this weekend.”

Osbourne, who knows very little about Stonehouse, is hoping the Downfield debacle was a one-off and his side can still be in the Scottish Cup heading into the new year. “Our main objective is the league, but there’s no doubt it would be great for the club if we were still be in the Cup after Christmas,” added Osbourne who has signed Guy Kerr from Musselburgh and Jack Norman from Fauldhouse over the past few weeks. “We’re still a bit short but, I think we are getting there.”

Broxburn, Haddington and Whitburn will also try again tomorrow in the Scottish Cup after their ties fell last weekend. Girvan visit Broxburn, Haddington head to Troon and Whitburn are home to Glentanar, conquerors of Spartans in the last round.