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East Kilbride striker Joao Victoria has beaten Celtic and Rangers stars to claim this season’s Scottish Cup top goalscorer prize.
The Portuguese hitman scored six goals in the competition this season and topped the charts by two from Lothian Thistle’s Errol Douglas, having netted four times in a 10-1 first round win over Coldstream and twice in a 2-2 draw away to Peterhead in the fourth round, which the K-Park side eventually lost on penalties.
Victoria will have watched on intently during Saturday’s Scottish Cup final between Rangers and Hearts with Gers striker Fashion Sakala the only player likely to deny him the prize, sitting on three goals going into the clash.
But the Zambian forward had a small cameo from the bench and was unable to find the target, as Rangers ran out 2-0 winners after extra-time at Hampden.
Celtic frontman Giorgos Giakoumakis was third in the charts having netted four goals in this season’s campaign.
Kilby boss Kevin Rutkiewicz was thrilled for his striker to claim the accolade and told the News:“It’s a good achievement for him, having only played in three rounds.
“He’s certainly keeping good company in that chart and he’s kept a few top players at bay for the award.
“We are all delighted for him. He’s a good kid and it’s a good achievement to have on your CV, that one.”
Such accolades will attract interest and Kilby could face a battle on their hands to keep Victoria, who is currently in his third spell at K-Park.
Asked if Victoria will be part of the squad next season, Rutkiewicz added: “We are currently negotiating with Joao.
“I think Joao wants to look at his options first, but we are trying to get the best deal together for him and the club, because we want to keep him.
“We want him at the club for another season, but it’s whether Joao wants to be here and be part of it again, that is the big question.
“I’d say it is 50/50 at the moment.”