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Scottish Cup: Newcomers Blackburn United provide the first round test for Rothes' unbeaten start to the season


By Craig Christie

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ROSS Jack very likely played at Blackburn during his football career, but not the West Lothian town he leads Rothes to on Scottish Cup duty on Saturday.

Rothes manager Ross Jack. Picture: Daniel Forsyth....
Rothes manager Ross Jack. Picture: Daniel Forsyth....

Blackburn United, based near Livingston, play host to the Speysiders in their first tie in the national competition, intent on causing a cup upset.

Rothes are the only Highland League side unbeaten in all competitions this season, winning their latest league match 4-1 at Strathspey Thistle last weekend.

They will start Saturday’s first-round tie as favourites, but manager Jack said: “It’s their first time in the Scottish Cup and a fantastic achievement for their club. They will give it everything they possibly can and we need to do the same.”

Jack is boosted by the return of former Caley Thistle midfielder Jack Brown from injury.

Jack's back for Rothes - midfielder Jack Brown in scoring action against Forres. Picture: Daniel Forsyth..
Jack's back for Rothes - midfielder Jack Brown in scoring action against Forres. Picture: Daniel Forsyth..

Brown scored six goals in the Speysiders’ first six games this term before being sidelined, and returned for a 15-minute sub cameo in the Grantown win last week.

“It was great to have him back, but we will give him the softly, softly approach.

“He looked fine, probably should have scored a couple with the form he was in before his injury, but we will allow him that.”

Jack was thrilled to see his men react to the previous week’s 1-1 draw with Wick in some style, as goals by Ross Gunn, Shane Harkness and a second half Craig Cormack double earned Rothes’ second 4-1 win at Seafield Park this term, following a North Cup success two weeks ago.


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