Juniors: David Liddle wants to keep the family happy

DEFENDER David Liddle is hoping Dalkeith can continue their successful “family affair” when they host Lochgelly Albert in the first round of the Fife & Lothians Cup tomorrow.

Liddle, 23, has been at the club for five years and believes the fact boss Willie Pearson’s squad has been built over a number of years has prepared them well for their first-ever campaign in the Premier League.

Thistle are third in the table and in the running for promotion but, for tomorrow, the cup takes their full attention.

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“It’s great playing better sides every week this season,” said Liddle. “It’s been a different challenge on a Saturday, but enjoyable. Our squad’s been together for years and it’s more like a family than a football team. I’ve been here for five years now and I’m only 23.

“We have a good bunch of players and the team are enjoying playing in a more competitive league. A good cup run would be nice in what’s turning out to be a good season for us, possibly better than winning the South Division last season.”

Elsewhere, the tie of the second round sees the top two sides in the Premier League, Newtongrange Star and Ballingry Rovers, clash at New Victoria Park.

The Fifers won 3-1 when they visited on league business in August, but Alan Miller’s side now sit proudly at the top of the table and tomorrow’s tie looks too close to call.

Meanwhile, South Division outfit Livingston are at home to Super League side Hill Of Beath, while St Andrews and Bo’ness meet in an all-Super League first-round clash. Despite Bo’ness’ recent struggles, they will start strong favourites at a St Andrews side who are bottom of the Super League and sit some 16 points behind their opponents.