Perthshire six must take the high road

THE Scottish Junior Cup second-round draw was unkind to Perthshire’s six clubs, all of whom have to travel.

Jeanfield have the longest trek, to Whittletts Vics of the Ayrshire District League.

Swifts are still without injured keeper Mark Mitchell, so Matt Curtis continues to deputies, while Chris Anton and Mark Duigan are also still sidelined.

Last season, Kinnoull exited at the hands of Glasgow Perthshire atTulloch Park, so they’ll be wary of the trip west, especially as boss Alan Cameron has nine players unavailable.

Luncarty visit Vale of Leven in good spirits, especially as player/boss Jon Kelly and Steve McAllister both return.

Scone Thistle check in at South League side West Calder. Other than injury concerns over Craig Mitchell and Willie Laing,Thistle have everyone available.

Blairgowrie have a tough nut to crack away to North Region Super League Leaders Hermes. They are without Robbie Hood, Gary Axworthy and Danny Miller.

Coupar Angus are also away to a North Region Super League side — Montrose Roselea.

The Foxhall outfit’s only problem is who will replace the suspended Josh Allardyce in goal. Meanwhile, Ross Nicholson returns from suspension and boss Logan McConochie expects to include new signing, midfielder Ben Fraser, a one-time St Johnstone youth.

Angus pair Brechin Vics and Forfar Albion both have home ties but very difficult ones.

Bad enough that Vics are severely depleted but they also meet Super League Bo’ness, who were 4-2 winners at Lochee Harp in round one.

Albion host Haddington Athletic, who are third in the Premier League.

Meanwhile, ArbroathVics travel toVale of Clyde but are without Josh Chalmers, JordanWill, Scott Donald and Jack Whitton.

Newburgh visit a rejuvenated Crossgates Primrose, who are mid-table in the South League after finishing third bottom last term.