Linlithgow come through replay smelling of roses

IN the end, this was a comfortable Emirates Scottish Junior Cup replay win for Dave Baikie's men.

The reward is a huge local derby in the quarter-finals against Bathgate at Creamery Park next Saturday.

Just as he did in last week's 1-1 draw, Linlithgow's Mark Tyrrell blasted the ball into the net with a 25-yard free-kick.

Rose were awarded a penalty in the 40th minute when Roddy McLennan was sent crashing in the box by Brian McGivern. Tommy Coyne stepped up after McGivern was sent off for the last-man tackle and scored to put Rose two up. Rose were three up a couple of minutes later, John Adam side-footing home after more good work by McLennan.

Ahead 3-0 at the break, the game was finished as a contest in the 50th minute. Steve Manson picked up the ball ten yards inside his own half and waltzed his way past several defenders before drilling home from 12 yards.

Whitletts were awarded a penalty themselves when Kevin Donnelly held down Ray Buchanan. However, Craig Main hit the bar with his effort. And Linlithgow went nap in the 65th minute, Roddy McLennan latching on to a through ball before scoring at the second attempt.

This was a very impressive win for Linlithgow who, once they went ahead, never allowed Whitletts a sniff of a chance to recover.

Manager Dave Baikie said: "We kept the ball well and moved it quickly. The signs are starting to look good again and this win will give us confidence for what will be a huge game next week. But on Saturday it was all about how we played and I'm delighted with our performance."

Linlithgow Rose: Pinkowski, McEwan, Virgili, Ward, Donnelly, Tyrrell, Manson, Adam, Coyne, McMenammin, McLennan. Subs, Bradley, Herd, Smith, McDermott, Flannery, Livingston, McPherson.

Whitletts Victoria: Barclay, Buchannan, McGivern, Cameron, King, McKissock, Kerr, Cunningham, Main, Duffy, Davidson. Subs, Clark, McNeill, McPherson, Ryland, Longair, Patrick.