HOUSTON HOPES TO CAUSE A FIXTURE PROBLEM
PETER HOUSTON admits he would love to give the SPFL an end-of-season headache — because it would mean Falkirk were still in with a shot at both Scottish Cup glory and promotion. The Cup Final is scheduled for Hampden on May 30, with the second-leg of the Premiership play-off final due to take place just 24 hours later. However, with four Championship sides still in the Cup — and the possibility of three of them reaching next month’s semi-finals — there appears the distinct possibility the governing body could have to go back to the drawing board to avoid a clash in the dates. Hibs, who are favourites to seal one of three play-off places, look odds-on to reach the last-four in the Cup and — after knocking Rangers out in the last round — Raith Rovers are capable of a shock at Inverness Caley Thistle. At Palmerston Park tonight, it is a straight fight between Falkirk and Queen of the South for a guaranteed trip to the national stadium next month, while both teams are also expected to battle it out for a play-off spot. And Houston hopes the Bairns can go all the way on both fronts to hand the SPFL a scheduling conundrum. ‘The Scottish Cup Final is May 30 and the play-off final is May 31 — who planned that?’ asked Houston. ‘Three Championship sides could be in the semi-finals of the Cup. And two of them — Hibs and either ourselves or Queens — look likely to make the play-offs. ‘No disrespect to Berwick Rangers, but Hibs look dead certs for a semi-final place and for the play-offs. ‘We’ve still got a bit of work to do with regards to that. ‘But I hope it’s Falkirk and not Hibs that are giving the SPFL a headache because that will mean we would be in the play-off final and the Scottish Cup Final. ‘We want to extend our season for as long as possible. If we don’t make the play-offs or the Scottish Cup Final, we’re finished on May 2.’ Houston knows exactly what Scottish Cup success feels like after being in charge when Dundee United lifted the trophy in 2010 with a victory over Ross County. And he has urged his players to do all they can to get their own taste of Hampden glory. He added: ‘United gave me my best day in football in 2010 and I would love to match that with Falkirk. ‘It’s a wonderful feeling and I would love some of these boys to feel that way as well.’