Scottish Cup: It was '˜fantasy football' says Linlithgow boss David McGlynn

David McGlynn and Kevin Kelbie who scored in extra time to set up the fifth-round tie against Ross County last season

The Prestonfield men, who qualify automatically through their SFA membership, took on Premiership Ross County in the fifth round last season in a memorable cup run which truly defied belief.

Last minute call-offs, late goals and heroic comebacks typified their lucrative run and they make this year’s bow in preliminary round two tomorrow away to Threave Rovers.

“I would do it twice over, 100 per cent,” said McGlynn. “The feeling we got going to Ross County and playing against a Premier League team as a part-time club was amazing.

“Doing it all over again is a fantasy probably. If we can get by the first and second round then see what gives after that. It’s all about the luck of the draw and getting a wee break on the day.”

Rose banked a five-figure sum as they became the first Junior club to reach the fifth round. Part of the cash has been set aside for ground improvements, with the club waiting on planning permission to install new floodlights.

It’s not just about the money according to McGlynn, however. The experience of testing himself against new coaches is what the ambitious boss thrives under.

He said: “It’s tremendous that we’re in it, it takes you away from your bread and butter. You get to play against better teams and go to different places.

“The players love it, the fans love it, the committee love it and I love it because I get to pit my wits against different managers.”

Rose are favourites to progress in Castle Douglas against South of Scotland side Threave, but they aren’t taking their opponents lightly with McGlynn’s assistant Todd Lumsden having checked out Rovers twice.

McGlynn added: “It will be tough, every game is tough in the Scottish Cup. It’s a different standard of football, every team has their own way of playing and their own culture. We’ll need to be on guard and make sure we win the game.”

New signing from Forfar Athletic, goalkeeper Darren Hill, is available with exiled Ally Adams having moved on to Tranent. Midfielder Ross Gray is unavailable.