Miller backing Star to shine in final despite drop blues

The New Victoria Park side will be playing their football next season back in the Premier Division after finishing at the foot of the top flight this term.

But tomorrow they take on Dundee North End in the final of the East of Scotland Cup at Central Park in Kelty (2.30pm kick-off).

It's only Miller's third game in charge of Star since his switch from Bonnyrigg, where he landed the Super League title two seasons ago.

And he's encouraging his players to put what has happened in the league this season behind them and concentrate on trying to end the campaign on a high.

"I've been delighted with the reaction of the players since taking over," said Miller.

"There are rumours that players are going to be leaving in the summer but that's not really different to any other club. We've been getting good turnout at training over the past few weeks and the attitude of the players has been really good.

"As for the club being relegated, I don't know what has gone wrong because it's a good team here. We've had various chats with the players, both in a group and as individuals, and it is a shame the club will be in the Premier again next season.

"But it is important that everyone focuses on looking forward, especially with such an important game to end the season."

No matter the outcome on Saturday, Miller is already relishing the prospect of trying to take Newtongrange straight back into the Super League. "The experienced players in particular have reacted really well," he added. "(Former Hearts and Berwick Rangers goalkeeper] Gary O'Connor, for instance, has a terrific influence on the squad.

"Gareth Hutchison, who also has bags of experience, is another important player for us and there's a lot of talent there for us to work with.

"Alan Brown has been doing great at right-back even though that is not his natural position while Gary Cherry looks a terrific midfield player. I'm looking forward to working with these guys at this club."

After the sudden and shock departure of Graeme Armstrong, John Coughlin took charge of the team for a spell. But the Newtongrange committee were keen to make an appointment before the end of the season and Miller is delighted he got the call.

"It is still a bit surreal and, to be honest, I was thinking about taking a year out of the game. But I'm delighted to have taken over at what is undoubtedly a terrific club," he said.

Dundee North End play in the North Division but were just pipped for promotion by Downfield on goal difference. They also beat Premier Division side Broughty Athletic recently to win the GA Engineering Cup.

"I've heard they're a young side and have lost just twice in 29 games and, obviously, we are expecting a tough game," noted Miller.