Peterhead V Clyde Preview

Graham Roberts spoke to the website this afternoon regarding the CIS Cup tie with Peterhead on Tuesday and the Clyde Manager was in no doubt of the importance of this game.

“The match against Peterhead is vital. The draw has not been kind to us. It will be extremely tough but we will go there with the right attitude. It is a good stadium and Peterhead are a big strong side. If you go through then there is a chance for a money-spinning tie that will boost the coffers but that is exactly what Peterhead will be thinking as well so we will need to earn the right to get to the next round.”

Graham continued: “There is no chance that any players will be rested. We have a full squad to choose from with the exception of Romauld Bouadji who is still a couple of weeks away yet. The players are desperate to get playing, believe me they much prefer the matches to training! So tomorrow represents another chance to get a victory and keep the momentum going. We’re all looking forward to it and will leave Broadwood at 12 noon and get up there around 4pm so it will be fine as long as it doesn’t go to penalties or we’ll be back at 4am!”

Commenting on the players outside the first team Graham added: “There is competition for places and to be fair the lads outside the first team have taken it well. They know the guys in the starting places have done well. I’ve talked to them and they know at some point they will get their chance. It is then that they will have to prove their worth and make it difficult for me to replace them.”

“In the matches so far this season we have shown great character and spirit,” Graham concluded. “Those qualities were never in doubt. Some of the guys are obviously still learning their trade but I believe in their ability and what is essential is that the fans give them their full backing.”

“Mistakes will happen but believe me these guys don’t earn enough to deserve a slagging as well. But in saying all of that, I would like to thank the fans who are making the journey North tomorrow. I greatly appreciate it. I understand two buses are going up as well as several car loads and it is a tremendous effort in a season that despite being only a few weeks old has seen us travel nearly 1300 miles! Here’s hoping that we can all come back with a victory to celebrate.”

A full interview with Graham will be featured in this Saturday’s award-winning Clyde View priced £2.50.