Thorn Athletic are gearing up for their biggest match in the club’s history as they welcome Lowland League side Tranent to Johnstone in the Fourth Round of the South Challenge Cup.
It’s a proper David-and-Goliath tie, with Thorn representing the West of Scotland League Second Division and their opponents sitting three tiers above them. Tranent are making the 70-mile trip west for what both clubs expect to be a lively cup occasion.
We asked Johnstone Sound’s Scoreboard Spotlight presenter Davie Welsh and pundit Andy Steel for their thoughts on the tie.
Davie said: “I feel it’s a huge ask for the thorn boys today, a team three divisions above them. However, it’s a cup and they are at home, anything can happen. Let’s hope it happens today and they get what would probably be their biggest scalp in the whole Thorn existence.”
Andy added: “It feels like there’s a big game on in Johnstone every week this weather, whether it’s Burgh or Thorn. Tranent will be confident, but it’s football, a Cup game, and you never know. If you’re at a loose end and can’t face going shopping you could do a lot worse this afternoon, it should be a very decent match.”
Tranent wrote to their fans on social media and said: “This afternoon we’re travelling to Johnstone for a Fourth Round battle in the South Challenge Cup as we face Thorn Athletic – a community club founded in the 1990s. Known for their youth setup and community-oriented ethos, Thorn Athletic bring plenty of energy and an unpredictable edge. Expect tough tackling, fast transitions and a side hungry to prove themselves on the Cup stage.”
Fans heading along are asked to arrive early, with gates opening at 12noon. Entry costs £8 for adults, £4 for concessions and under-16s go free. Season tickets are not valid for this cup tie.
A large crowd is expected and the surrounding area will be much busier than usual between 12noon and 4pm. Parking at Thorn Park is limited, and the club is urging visitors to be considerate when using nearby residential streets.
Supporters are encouraged to use parking at Thomas Shanks Park, Quarrelton Road and Craigview Avenue, all within walking distance of the ground.
The club has thanked the local community for their patience and continued support as Thorn continues to attract visitors, interest and business to the area.