FORFAR ATHLETIC v LINLITHGOW ROSE
WILLIAM HILL SCOTTISH CUP REPLAY
26.1.16

 

Linlithgow made the trip to Forfar in search of making history by becoming the first Junior team to reach the last 16 of the Scottish Cup. Before they set off, they knew that they'd have to do it the hard way as injuries, suspensions and work commitments reduced the squad to 12 fit and available players.

 

Fofar started brightly and Michael Dunlop hit the post after just 3 minutes.  Linlithgow eased their way back into the tie and gave as good as they got despite having several players in unfamiliar positions. Strickland and Kelbie both hit the woodwork but a breakthrough eluded the Linlithgow lads as the 90 minutes drew to a close - indeed Scott Martin hit the bar for the home side with just a minute left.

 

As the match went into extra time there seemed little doubt that Forfar would cope better given that Linlithgow had already used their only option on the bench when Jones replaced Strickland. But the Rose lads rose to every challenge and when Kevin Kelbie picked the ball up and cut into the box before slamming his shot into the back of the net with just five minutes remaining in the second period of extra time, the roar from the Rose contingent almost took the roof off the enclosure.

 

The lads saw out the remainder of the tie and recorded a famous victory and now wonder. This was another outstanding display of courage, resilience and skill to overcome the odds and the celebrations at full time were a sight to behold. Hail The Gallant