Dons Draw Gretna In The Cup

Last updated : 08 January 2007 By Stand Free Ed

ABERDEEN will face a tricky fourth round tie at home to Gretna if they manage to beat Hibernian in the Tennent's Scottish Cup on Wednesday.

While the Dons will be pleased to be drawn at home for two rounds in a row, it is another very tricky tie against the First Division leaders.

Rags-to-riches Gretna took Lithuanio-Scottish club Hearts to penalty kicks in last year's tense final.

The game will be the first time that Aberdeen have ever faced Gretna in all competitions.

But first, the Reds have to dispose of Hibernian in the tie of the third round, which is being televised live on BBC Scotland.

The good news for the Dons is that the flu virus that rocked the club over New Year has started to recede.

Club captain Russell Anderson, Chris Clark, Barry Nicholson and Gary Dempsey have all recovered from the illness and returned to full training at the weekend.

Dons boss Jimmy Calderwood told the P&J: "We were forced to defend in numbers against Hibs in the last game but that won't happen on Wednesday.

"We will be a lot more attacked minded in the Scottish Cup match, there is no doubt about that.

"I'm really looking forward to the cup game and it should be a cracker and it's a relief most of the lads are feeling better."