Argyle keen to repeat Scottish Cup success

BOUYED by getting their hands on a first piece of silverware for the season, Dundee Argyle hope to cap an incredible two years as they vie to retain the Scottish Cup.

A strong Argyle side travelled to The Canniepart to meet Tayport in the final of the Chairman’s Cup last weekend. The visitors took the game to the hosts from the off and were rewarded in the 12th minute when, following a fine run from Owen Neave and a lofted pass across the area, Kevin Egan stroked the ball into the net.

Argyle continued to press and Iain Maclean broke through the Tayport defence in the 27th minute, playing Neave through to score Argyle’s second goal. Tayport pressed for a response but the away side’s defence held firm until half-time.

Argyle started the second half in much the same vein as the first as Neave continued to harass the opposition down the right flank, grabbing his reward with a goal in the 48th minute.

Tayport attempted to force their way back into the game but Argyle held firm scored again in the 67th minute when Scotty Gardiner broke through the opposition backline with a surging run, his shot rebounding neatly for Stevie Martin to stroke home Argyle’s fouth.

Argyle can’t focus all of their energy on celebrations just now, however, as they face arguably their biggest challenge of the season on Sunday at New Broomfield where they meet Dykehead AFC in the semi-final of the Scottish Cup.

A victory would send them to their second Scottish Cup Final in as many years, with a win therefater penning a line in the history books.

Manager Alan Henry reflected: “It was obviously a great achievement for us and a great day out. That’s what cup finals are all about.

“We’re looking forward to the semi-final now. It’s a massive occasion. It’s pretty much our whole season wrapped up in one game. They are always cagey affairs but we are not big-headed about it.

“No Dundee side has ever won it twice. So there’s history to be made.

“We are confident, but not over confident. Our defence is solid and we are a really good footballing side.

“We’ve only one absentee in Barrie Pullar, so the squad is looking good.”

Dundee Argyle captain Kevin Egan (centre) celebrates his goal with teammates in the 4-0 Chairman’s Cup Final triumph over Tayport at The Canniepart.

Ferry Yellow U/19s look jubilant as they pose with the George Kerr - Maryfield Trophy following a win over Dryburgh.

Dundee Argyle pose with the Chairman’s Cup after their 4-0 triumph over Tayport in Fife.

Steve Martin (red and white stripes) can’t contain his smile as he slots in Dundee Argyle’s fourth and final goal against Tayport.

Tayport U/19s captain Fraser Anderson receives the J Cord Cup from DDYFA officials Jim Falconer (left) and Fraser Mortimer.