Sandy McLean: Thistle be no surprise

LARGS THISTLE boss Sandy McLean believes his side have lost the element of surprise with the semi-finals so long ago.

He said: "Both sides have had plenty of opportunity to watch each other so there's no surprise left. Dave Baikie will know our line-up, just as we know his."

McLean reckons the game is too close to call but points out that his side have been on a steep learning curve given the quality of opposition they have faced.

He said: "We don't have as much experience as Linlithgow do but we are learning fast, having beaten the east Super League champions Bonnyrigg and the west Super League champions Irvine Meadow, plus 2009 semi finalists Kirkintilloch Rob Roy and last season's beaten finalists Clydebank. We've had a good run but it all counts for nothing unless you win the final."