Skelly keeps Broughty alive

BROUGHTY’S Josh Skelly came off the bench to hit an injury-time equaliser and keep alive his side’s hopes of a Scottish Cup semi-final slot.

Trailing 2-1 to Darvel and with the tie into injury time, former Montrose player Skelly swivelled in the box and unleashed an unstoppable strike which flew past Chris Truesdale and sent Broughty fans, players, and coaching staff into raptures.

Skelly, whose side were contesting their first Scottish Cup quarter-final in their 100 year history, said: “It’s an amazing feeling still to be in the competition and we will all look forward to the replay.

“I’ve been struggling with an injury for the past few weeks so I wasn’t sure if I was going to start but hopefully I’ve given the gaffer food for thought as I’m desperate to play in the next game.

“We have a good record on our astroturf park and I fancy our chances against anyone at home. In saying that Darvel are a very good side and I’d imagine it will be another very even game.

“Hopefully we can just edge it but it will take a massive effort from everyone.”

Darvel were 2-0 up when Daryl Meggatt bulleted home a header from Darren Miller’s free-kick before Miller hit the second direct from a corner.

In the second half the Ayrshire side had chances to extend their lead before

Bryan Duell’s header from a Marc Scott cross threw Broughty a Cup lifeline.

Then with seconds remaining Skelly struck and boss Jamie McCunnie said: “It’s great to still be in the Cup after making life very difficult for ourselves. But I can’t praise the boys enough for fighting back and keeping our dream alive.”

Darvel gaffer Mick Kennedy, said: “It was a bit of a sickener to concede so late.”

● Harvey Dailly, the son of former Scotland defender Christian, is recovering in hospital after a horror leg break playing for Carnoustie Panmure against Scone Thistle. The match was abandoned just after the hour.