The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Dons boss pleased by ‘good news’ over resumption of Scottish Cup
Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes believes the resumption of the Scottish Cup is “good news” for the game in Scotland.
There was some concern about the viability of the competition this season after it was put on hold when all but the top two divisions of the men’s game were suspended from January 12 after Scotland went into tighter coronavirus restrictions.
However, it was announced on Tuesday that League One and Two and Highland League clubs who remain in the Scottish Cup are permitted to return to play immediately.
The following day the SFA confirmed that country’s major cup competition was returning this month with the final pushed back to May 22.
Aberdeen play Dumbarton or Huntly away in the third round and ahead of the Scottish Premiership game against Hamilton tomorrow, Dons boss McInnes said: “It’s good news.
“I think a couple of weeks ago we were all maybe expecting that there might be some sort of delay running on to next season, something similar to last year.
“So I think it is great and obviously the lower league teams are pivotal to that, getting back playing and that gives us the green light to try to carry on through and get the tournament finished which I think everybody would want.
“Obviously crowds have an impact on cup football in particular but I think the bigger picture is getting the tournament finished which is great for everybody and gives everybody something to focus on.”
With seven league games left Aberdeen are four points behind third-placed Hibernian having played a game more.
McInnes said: “We feel there is a race on (for third) and we have to play our part in that and start winning games.”
Hamilton are bottom of the table on goal difference following their 1-1 home draw with St Johnstone on Wednesday night where the Betfred Cup holders scored a last-gasp leveller.
McInnes said: “I would be more surprised if Hamilton were bottom of the table come the end of the season and that tells you what I think of them. They always find a way.”