From today's Evening Times:
"Jags ask beaks to speed up cup call
By CHRIS JACK
Share
3 Nov 2011
PARTICK THISTLE today asked the SFA to bring forward the date of their ruling on Spartans’ Scottish Cup fate.
Jackie McNamara’s side were drawn to face the Edinburgh-based outfit in the third round of the cup last week.
But Spartans face being thrown out of the competition after allegedly fielding an ineligible player during their second-round triumph over Culter.
Striker Keith McLeod, who has been with the Ainslie Park club for a decade, is at the centre of the SFA investigation after it emerged the new contract he signed in the summer may not have been completed correctly.
Mickey Lawson’s side beat Culter 2-0 to set up a glamour tie with the Jags, but they could be deprived the chance to host the Irn-Bru First Division outfit if SFA chiefs throw them out of the competition.
That would mean a long trip north for McNamara’s squad and Jags fans, with Culter, who are managed by former Firhill favourite Andy Gibson, as the opposition.
The outcome of the SFA enquiry will not be decided until November 10, just seven days before the third-round tie is due to take place.
Thistle have asked for the meeting to be brought forward to allow the club, and supporters, more time to prepare.
The Jags believe it is unfair to ask fans to arrange travel for the match at such short notice, with the First Division club likely to take a large travelling support to the fixture.
Thistle also feel they would be left with sufficient time to scout whatever team they will have to face."
Is it just me, or is that Jackie showing a bit too much confidence in the team?