Linlithgow frailties exposed during shock cup defeat

It underlines the problems Linlithgow have at the heart of their defence and boss Dave Baikie admitted: “It is a problem for us but we did work on it at training in Monday.”

Stoneyburn ran up a two-goal lead with strikes from Michael McCormack and Chris Marshall before Linlithgow pulled themselves level with goals from Tommy Coyne and an own goal from the Stoneyburn keeper.

But Rose failed to close the gaps at the back and Lee Tague and Fraser Easton struck to secure the surprise win.

Linlithgow, however, have reached the semi-finals after West Calder, their closest rivals, lost 2-1 at home to Blackburn.

In the same section, Whitburn bounced back to form with a 7-1 thrashing of Harthill, Brian King netting a hat-trick.

In Section C, Broxburn failed to take top spot when they drew 3-3 with Livingston. This leaves them on eight points but with two games still to play. They are joined by another three teams on eight points after last night’s games – Bonnyrigg, Livingston and Penicuik . Penicuik recorded a super 3-1 win over bottom club Edinburgh. There is still all to play for in this section with games scheduled for Saturday and the following Wednesday.

Section D leaders Haddington trounced Dalkeith 5-1 with goals from Brian Martin, a double from Jordan Cropley, with further goals from Yosi Bernai and Ross Fergus. Musselburgh beat Dunbar by a solitary strike from Mattu King while Newtongrange enjoyed a 2-0 win at Tranent thanks to goals from Liam McKenna and David Beattie. Haddington are in contention to make the last four but their fate will depend on group rivals Musselburgh and Newtongrange.

Section A will be decided on Saturday with Sauchie the favourites to go through.