Pete’s not torn – his heart wants a Rovers victory
Peter Hetherston says whatever happens in today’s meeting of Raith Rovers and Aberdeen in the Premier Sports Cup tie, he can’t lose.
The Bellshill-born Scot was a key part of the Rovers side which won the First Division title in 1992-93.
And, while he missed out on the Kirkcaldy club’s famous triumph in the tournament in 1994-95, it was because by then he had switched to the Dons.
As he explained, that helped him make up for lost time the following season.
“It was a funny one because the move to Pittodrie probably cost me one League Cup winners’ medal, but it also helped me win another straight away,” said Hetherston.
“Aberdeen had a great side back then, with guys like Billy Dodds, Duncan Shearer and, of course, the current manager, Stephen Glass all doing really well.
“We got through to the 1995 Final where we were up against Dundee.
“They were a good team, too, but we had too much for them, and won it 2-0 with Doddsie and Shearer grabbing the goals.
“I came on off the subs bench for Eoin Jess late on. I loved being part of it.
“Obviously, that wasn’t the case in the 1994, but I was honestly thrilled for the Rovers lads.
“I went to Ibrox that day, so I was lucky enough to see a terrific display upset the odds and beat Celtic.
“Listen, I loved all the time I was at Kirkcaldy, and indeed went back there later to play and manage. The Aberdeen move was just too big an opportunity to turn down.”
Time moves on, and today the Dons will travel to Fife under the charge of Hetherston’s former teammate, Glass.
“I was pleased to see Stephen get his chance because he is a good guy, and clearly someone who has taken the chance to learn everything he can about the game,” said the 56-year-old.
“It is real opportunity for him because Aberdeen is one of the biggest jobs in this country.
“These are still relatively early days, but he seems to have a clear idea of the kind of football he wants his team to play.
“He has brought in new faces over the summer to help him achieve that aim, and we are now seeing them settling in and making an impact.
“I am big fan of Scott Brown. He is a great player, who should be a real influence on the team.”
For this one weekend, Hetherston would be happy if things did not work out for the visitors.
“I think I can’t lose because I have feelings for both clubs. But my heart will probably be with Rovers,” he said.
“They are currently a Championship club, and if they can claim Aberdeen’s scalp in this, one of the two big cup competitions, it will give them a real boost.
“For that reason, I would probably rather they come out on top. They got to the play-offs last season and, in a one-off, can give it a real go.”