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Minnows eye shock Scottish Cup upset
17 Jan
Summary
- Auchinleck Talbot faces Celtic for the first time in competitive play.
- Manager Tommy Sloan seeks inspiration from recent European upsets.
- Celtic's Martin O'Neill faces his first Scottish Cup tie since 2005.
In a historic first, Auchinleck Talbot is set to clash with Celtic in a competitive Scottish Cup fourth-round fixture. The part-time players of Auchinleck Talbot, led by long-serving manager Tommy Sloan, are drawing inspiration from recent major upsets across Europe. Sloan has been studying Celtic's play, expressing a desire for his team to be competitive throughout the match.
This encounter holds particular significance for Celtic's manager, Martin O'Neill, as it represents his first Scottish Cup tie since he led the team to victory in 2005. Sloan acknowledged O'Neill's impressive managerial record, noting his ability to stabilize Celtic and achieve wins since his return. He fondly remembers O'Neill's successful playing career.
Despite Celtic's upcoming Europa League match against Bologna and a league fixture against Hearts, Sloan anticipates a strong lineup from the visitors at Rugby Park. He suggested that O'Neill might make a few changes to his usual starting eleven, perhaps two or three, considering the demanding week ahead for the team.
