EXPERIENCED Irvine Meadow striker Richie Barr is hopeful his side can overcome Linlithgow Rose on Saturday after his goal helped secure a home replay against the East Coast big guns.

The ETHX Energy Scottish Junior Cup Fourth Round tie ended deadlocked at 1-1 at Prestonfield with returning target man Barr opening the score early on before the hosts levelled.

Barr, who won three league titles in his first spell at Meadow feels his side should have won and said: "It was great to score although it was very much a team effort. We had chances to win the game.. Linlithgow are a top side but I am quietly confident we can come through on Saturday.

He is also optimistic his side can beat the drop and said: "We have to go on a winning run. Even if we finished third bottom I don't think anyone would fancy their chances against Irvine Meadow in the playoff."

Manager Davie Greig is urging the fans to turn out in force on Saturday.

He was encouraged with the performance and said: "The players showed a great attitude, commitment and desire and we played well. It's great we are still in the tie. Their fans outnumbered ours at the weekend. But our supporters could make a difference in the tie if they get behind us and hopefully they will turn out ion good numbers to cheers us on. It will be tough but if we play well hopefully we can get through."

Meanwhile Kilwinning Rangers midfielder Liam McGuinness praised his side as they reached the last 16 of the Scottish Cup with a 3-0 home win against Arniston Rangers. But he insists promotion is the priority.

He was impressed with the display and said: "We played well and the second and third goals killed the game. The Scottish Cup is a bonus but promotion is the priority, we want to be in the Premier Division next season."

Boss Chris Strain Jnr was pleased with the display but is focusing on Saturday's league clash with Greenock and said: "We very pleased to get through and are on a good run but things can change. Greenock are dangerous but hopefully we can make it six straight home wins."

Irvine Victoria manager Stevie Wilson saluted his team as they swept aside Dalry Thistle 4-1 at home to retain top spot in the Ayrshire District League

Wilson was delighted with the effort and said: "Going behind spurred us into action. It was good to see Kevin Adam scoring as he now has 98 goals for the club. We expect a difficult game away to Saltcoats Vics on Saturday and will have to match them. We are looking for three points."