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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Callum Carson

Stoneyburn boss backs players to thrive in 'no pressure' cup clash against Berwick Rangers

Stoneyburn boss Steven Sharp has called on his players to enjoy the fact there will be no pressure on them as they look to cause an East of Scotland Qualifying Cup upset at home to Lowland League side Berwick Rangers on Saturday.

The Fulshie have started their season in decent form with last night's 4-0 win over Harthill Royal lifting them into second place in the East of Scotland Division Three table. But the gaffer knows it will be a significant step up for the ninth-tier side when they welcome Berwick to Beechwood Park.

The underdog tag is one that suits everyone at the club fine as it's one they're well used to.

Speaking to the Courier, the gaffer said: "It's a big occasion for the club. It's a pretty big tie and it's not often we get to play a Lowland League side at Beechwood Park. We'll be the underdogs obviously, but even within our own league we're always regarded that way so it's not something that will phase us.

"It's one that we'll enjoy. There's no pressure and we just want to go out there and give it everything and see where that takes us. It will be a tough game, of course, but we've nothing to lose. They're four leagues above us and expected to win so there's no expectations on our guys and sometimes that plays into your own hands perfectly."

He added: "It's a cup game and it's 90 minutes. There's always that chance. The players and the coaches all know it's going to be tough and we've watched plenty of footage on them, but we'll go out and do all we can to get a result and maybe it will be one of those David and Goliath upsets.

"The local community has really bought into the club and there's a feel good atmosphere. We hope there's a big crowd on Saturday for what is a really big game in the club's recent history."

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