Linlithgow Rose 3-2 St Cuthbert Wanderers: Rose emerge victorious in South Challenge Cup thriller
An enthralling home cup tie on Saturday saw Linlithgow Rose make it a sensational 12th straight win under new gaffer Gordon Herd.
The 3-2 success over St Cuthbert Wanderers in the South Challenge Cup was far from straightforward though, including a heart stopping moment with Rose 2-1 up in the second half, when a backpass to home keeper Lewis McMinn saw him strike an attempted clearance against the St Cuthberts forward but the ball rebound just wide.
“We knew it would be a tough game,” Herd told the Journal and Gazette. “Typical cup tie that they came and they fought for everything so we’re happy to get through.
"We had a few players out as well so that’s extra pleasing.
"My heart was in my mouth a wee bit at that one (McMinn’s kick which was charged down). All credit to St Cuthbert’s, they pressed us well and they nearly got a wee bit of joy out of that press.
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"We came through it unscathed so we’re happy.”
Rose – who led 1-0 and 2-1 thanks to goals by Dan Baur and Mark Stowe – were pegged back to 2-2 before Alan Docherty fired in the winner from a Stowe cross.
And the Prestonfield side received a boost this week with the news that centre back Baur, who had been on loan from The Spartans, has now been signed up on a permanent contract until 2024.
Herd said: “The loan deal ran out after Saturday so we were keen to get something done.
"When we realised we could get Dan on a permanent transfer we didn’t hesitate because he’ll be a great addition to an already talented squad.
"He’s played every game since I came in. He can defend well for a start so that’s a big positive.
"He’s left sided, he’s good in the air, he gives us another attacking option at setpieces as well.
"He’s a great lad to have about the dressing room and has great potential.
"Something we’re very keen on at Linlithgow is to build a young, hungry squad with a lot of potential and that’s kind of where we’re going with it.”
Herd said that Connor MacKenzie is doubtful for this Saturday’s league trip to Newtongrange Star with a hamstring problem.
But Cammy Thomson is back in training and three men cup tied against St Cuthbert’s are back.