Football: Whitehill braced for stern test against Hearts starlets

WHITEHILL WELFARE continue their build-up to the new season tomorrow with a challenge match at Ferguson Park (kick-off 2.30pm) against a Hearts XI which will consist mainly of players from the Tynecastle club's Under-19 squad, coached by former Whitehill player Darren Murray.

Whitehill have already beaten Clyde 3-0 and Kelso United 5-0 but manager Rab Paget appreciates that tomorrow's encounter will be a step up in standards for his players. "This will be a hard test against full time footballers and will really be a role reversal in comparison with our game against Kelso in midweek," said Paget. "Whereas we had most of the ball on Tuesday night, this time Hearts will no doubt control the ball so it will be interesting to see how well we defend.

"I know that Hearts will make us run about and close us down quickly. It will be a great workout for us and superb preparation for the season ahead. When we do have the ball we will have to keep our shape and try to retain the ball."

Paget has signed keeper Darren Walker from Vale of Leithen after Youssef Bejaoui joined Cowdenbeath following three seasons at Ferguson Park. "Darren is a good solid keeper who is comfortable with the ball at his feet," added Paget.

Whitehill's new signing from Tynecastle, striker Wayne McIntosh, has scored four goals already in their two friendlies and, along with Scott Gormley and Wayne Sproule, Whitehill have a strong side. Aaron Somerville, a forward who joined from Newtongrange Star, is currently injured.

Elsewhere tomorrow there are a host of other friendlies involving East Seniors clubs, including Civil Service Strollers entertaining Bo'ness United at Telford College Sports Centre (2.00pm), Craigroyston facing Arthurlie at St Marks Park (2.30pm), Heriot Watt University meeting Newtongrange Star at Riccarton (2.30pm) and Easthouses Lily awaiting Vale of Leithen at Newbattle (2.00pm).