THE battling win at Kilwinning has given Cowdenbeath a British Gas Scottish Cup third round tie away to Championship side Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

Cowden boss, Calum Elliot, was delighted with the way his team handled the tie in Ayrshire, giving themselves the chance to test themselves against the Duncan Ferguson led Caley Jags.

And the manager was happy to report that he hopes to have injured men, Dougie Hill, Matty McDonald and Jack Tait back within two weeks, and left back Andy Rodden, out through suspension for ten games, in the squad for this Saturday’s home Lowland League game with Linlithgow Rose.

He said: “We knew that it would be a hard test at Kilwinning, but the lads competed really well for the entire game and have earned a tie with Championship club Caley Thistle.

Central Fife Times: Cowden boss Calum Elliot is keen to concentrate on the league fixtures ahead of the Scottish Cup tie against Inverness.Cowden boss Calum Elliot is keen to concentrate on the league fixtures ahead of the Scottish Cup tie against Inverness. (Image: David Wardle)

“It is a big match to look forward to, and it was earned with a good performance, which included some good defending, especially in the closing stages when they threw balls into our box from many angles.”

Without left sided defender Jack Tait, Elliot switched normal right-back, Scott Walker, to the left hand side and asked right winger Zac Butterworth to deputise in defence, and he was really pleased with the way the youngster handled the task.

“Zac is a really talented player and I had not qualms about asking him to take on the job of dealing with one of their most dangerous attackers, and he did not let the team down with a superb performance,” said the manager.

“We defended really solidly throughout and have earned a very interesting tie with a proven Championship side. However, that is not until November 25, and we have some really important Lowland League games before that.”

The manager also praised the fans, who made the long trip to Kilwinning on Saturday: “They turned out in big numbers and offered the lads tremendous support at key times in the game, and we thank them for their backing, it makes a huge difference.”

Indeed, Linlithgow Rose, who Cowden beat in the first round of the Scottish Cup, visit Central Park this Saturday, in what will be a tough test for the Blues.

“We want to improve our league position and this is a game we want to win, but we know that Linlithgow are a very good side and will provide a tough test for us.”

Elliot is pleased that Rodden, who was handed a contract extension last week, will be available for Saturday.

He added: “We have missed Andy Rodden down the left hand side and his ability to take corners and free-kicks, so it is great to have him back available.

“He has the sort of talents which we want to have available to us as we look to build a side to win the Lowland League, and I was delighted that he has committed himself to the club until the summer of 2025.

“Also is it tremendous seeing Dougie Hill and Matty McDonald almost back available after being out for many weeks, so hopefully we will soon have a full squad to pick from for the first time since July!”