Scottish Cup duty calls for the Maroon Machine as we host Cove Rangers in the fourth round of the competition.  The two League One clubs will feel they have a golden opportunity to progress to the next round and set up a glamour tie.

In the only all League One tie of the round, it’s 10th versus 8th in the cup. This will be the third meeting of the sides this campaign, with Kelty and Cove winning one each.

Just four weeks ago, Cove Rangers came out convincing winners at New Central Park with a 5-2 victory.  At the Balmoral Stadium, goals from Innes Murray and Joseph Teasdale secured a 2-0 triumph for the Maroon Machine.

Kelty Hearts defeated Highland League high-flyers Brechin City to get to this stage.  For the visitors, Cove pulled off a minor cup upset by beating St Johnstone 2-1 after extra time.  

Thomas O’Ware’s side have the chance to equal the club record for progression in the famous competition.  Kelty Hearts last reached the fifth round in the 2021/22 season, after beating then holders St Johnstone.

For the Aberdeen based side, Cove Rangers similarly would be equalling a club record with a win.  With both sides having difficult spells in the league so far, the cup could be a welcome distraction for both dugouts.

Written by: Jamie Szmitz

Photography: Kevin Marshall (@KayemPhoto)