MacRae hopes for a happy return

William Dick • Published 9 Jul 2010 14:00 0 Comments

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GOOD RETURN: Neil MacRae during his Greenock days.

FORMER Greenock batsman Neil MacRae brings his Aberdeenshire side to Glenpark tomorrow for a match between two of the SNCL's struggling teams.

While Greenock's problems this season have been well documented, the Dons have had their own troubles and this is a game which offers the home team the chance of only their second win of the campaign.

MacRae, who starred in the Greenock side that did the league and cup double in 2002, enjoyed similar success as player-coach of the Mannofield outfit last year.

However, hopes of successfully defending either trophy are already over following a dismal run of defeats in the league and elimination from the cup at the second round stage.

The Dons have won just three games and lost eight to sit two places above Greenock at the bottom of the league.

Yet MacRae is not despondent and believes both sides have cause for optimism.

He said: "It was always going to be a difficult year for us after losing a number of key players.

"We are in a very similar position to Greenock in that regard and I believe clubs sometimes have to take a long-term view and build for the future.

"That is what we are doing at Aberdeenshire by giving a lot of youngsters their chance in the first team and it's the same with Greenock."

The Dons, though, have a little more strength in depth and will start this match as favourites, especially after winning the corresponding fixture earlier in the season.

Greenock have their usual selection problems, with Richie Berrington and Tony Judd still on duty with Scotland at the World Cricket League in Holland.

Willie Rowan, however, is expected to be available prior to flying to Jersey to represent Scotland Lions in the European Championships. There could also be a welcome return for teenager Alex Baum.

Club president David Campbell said: "We're hoping to have a stronger team out than last week but there will be the usual call-offs.

"I know Aberdeenshire have not had the easiest of seasons either but they have a professional and when you look at the scorecards most weeks, it is the pros who make the difference."

Aberdeenshire's hired hand, New Zealander Michael Parlane, has been a key figure for the visitors, who remain without leading strike bowler Chris West who broke an ankle on the opening day of the season.

Greenock Cricket Club acknowledges the generous support of the following sponsors - Ball Sponsor: Gavin Murray. Match Sponsor: Duncan MacKenzie Quality Butchers. Presidential Suite: Fyfe & Murray Solicitors.

This article appeared in Greenock Telegraph 09 Jul 10

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