Scottish Cup: Stirling become first university team to reach fourth round

Stirling University could be rewarded with a match against a Premiership giant after becoming the first university side to reach the fourth round of the Scottish Cup.

An extra-time win over Albion Rovers made competition history and put the uni side into Monday’s night’s draw alongside holders Rangers, Premiership champions Celtic and other top flight sides.

Euan McGill’s late winner ensured progress for the Lowland League side and sparked an emotional reaction from supporters, players and the coaching staff.

“I’m not scared to say it, I feel like crying,” manager Chris Geddes told The Herald. “The emotions there… wow.

“I’ve been here a long time and we’ve played a lot of pro teams in the Scottish Cup and we’ve never played like that. When you play these teams you need a bit of luck, a missed penalty in the last minute.

“I’m so proud of them. It’s testament to the team, the players, the programme.

“We had three or four big chances in the first 25 minutes and you do start wonder if it’s going to be one of those days.

“I can’t say enough about my players, it’s history. No Uni team has ever been in the fourth round. For us to get there is unbelievable.”

The result wasn’t the only shock in the third round ties, as Montrose were knocked out by West of Scotland side Darvel in a 5-2 defeat at Links Park.

Drumchapel added to the list of shocks with a 1-0 win over League One side FC Edinburgh.

Linlithgow Rose will also be in the fourth round draw as they beat Sauchie Thistle 1-0 to ensure East of Scotland League representation in the next round.

Dundee cruised through with a 6-2 win over Airdrie, while Cove Rangers beat Dunipace 7-0 in their tie. Hamilton defeated East kilbride 4-0 and Dunfermline saw off Forfar by the same scoreline.

Stenhousemuir were 3-1 winners over Formartine, while Arbroath beat Fraserburgh 2-0.

Hill of Beath Hawthorn were a goal ahead against Elgin but lost 2-1, while Inverness were 3-2 winners against Stirling Albion.

Morton thumped Queen of the South 4-1, while Falkir scored six without reply against Wick Academy. Dumbarton took a 3-1 win over Clyde.

Partick Thistle, Queen’s Park and Raith Rovers were all 3-0 winners against Kelty Hearts, Peterhead and Auchinleck Talbot.

The fourth round draw will take place after Ayr United’s tie against Pollock on Monday evening.