Irvine Victoria boss says lack of bodies is hurting side after Junior Cup exit

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Dougie MacDuff says lack of numbers is hurting Irvine Victoria.The Westenders have had to run with just one or two substitutes in recent weeks due to injuries and suspensions, and even less bodies at training.And it came back to bite them as they were knocked out of the Scottish Junior Cup after a 6-1 defeat away to Aberdeen side Bridge of Don.The Victoria Park boss told the Irvine Herald: “I am struggling big time just now with players, it’s really tough.“Last week in the league we went to Threave with 13 players and we managed to pick up a great result.“To be honest Threave were probably the best team we’ve played in the league this season, they were fantastic – so it was fantastic to get that result.“But then we were preparing for the Scottish Cup game with eight boys at training.

Injuries and suspensions are just killing us.“We’ve got a pool of 16 players which is adequate when everyone is available, but when a few are out you’re struggling.”He continued: “We went up to Aberdeen full of hope.

We had the added incentive of welcoming Auchinleck or Cumnock to Vics Park so that gave us a wee jag in the arm.“But it just wasn’t to be.

We played well despite going into the break 2-0 down and they finished us off second half.“I was disappointed for the fantastic support that came up with us, they were brilliant.“I’m old enough to know that Scottish Cup days are great days, but only if you win.“After a defeat the long journey feels even longer, so fair play to them.“We’re never going to win this cup.