Jags ready to make their Scottish Cup bow
It will be a historic day for Strathspey Thistle as they compete in their first ever Scottish Cup game when they take on Culter tomorrow in the first round of the competition.
The Peterculter based side was the first away fixture that the Jags ever played when they entered the junior ranks some 20 years ago – and now they have another big occasion to look forward to.
Strathspey Thistle club secretary Malky Taylor said: "It is another big moment in the short history of this club – a lot of work has been done over a number of years to get to a standard where competing in the oldest club competition in the world is a reality.
"We are proud to be representing the whole strath in this new adventure
"I hope the young players that we have play to their capabilities but more importantly enjoy the occasion and the experience and do the team and Badenoch and Strathspey proud."
As for the match itself, Mr Taylor knows that the Jags will be in for a tough fight despite playing opposition from a lower league.
He said: "Culter are a well organised and experienced club – being north SJFA champions on several occasions, they are well experienced when it comes to Scottish Cup days and we go their under no illusions in that respect.
"We look forward to renewing old acquaintances."
The Jags go into the cup-tie away to last season's North Region Superleague champions on the back of two draws.
Manager Brian Grant said: "We know Culter are a side that scores lots of goals. I have spoken to a few people who have given me the lowdown on them.
"But the thing about young lads, which our team is full of, is that they don't fear anyone because they don't know anyone."
The Jags boss is hoping for good news on the fitness of striker Adam MacLeod, who has caused some damage to a ligament in his knee.
The former Elgin City player is waiting for swelling to go down before an assessment can be made on his condition.
However, Strathspey have boosted their forward options by taking in striker Scott Hume, who previously played in the Junior ranks in the Edinburgh area. Meanwhile, Alan Fraser is returning to training with the club after taking a break from football.
* Kick off is at 3pm Saturday at Crombie Park, Peterculter.