Paul Lovering: I'd love to lift a trophy

Oct 12 2008

AIRDRIE skipper Paul Lovering had one of the best - and worst - weeks of his life six years ago when Ayr United went to Hampden twice in seven days.

The full-back faced both sides of the Old Firm with Gordon Dalziel's men in the CIS Cup final and the Scottish Cup semi.

But as much as Lovering enjoyed the experience he suffered the pain of losing both times. And that's why lifting the Challenge Cup next month would mean just as much as those Hampden days out.

The Diamonds face Partick Thistle in today's semi-final at Firhill and player-coach Lovering wants to go all the way.

He said: "I have a good record in the cups but it's in the past.

"Playing against the Old Firm at Hampden was incredible but Ayr lost the games. So it would be just as special if Airdrie went on to win.

"It might only be the Challenge Cup but it would be amazing to actually get my hands on a trophy."

Today's clash will be screened live on TV and Lovering hopes that will bring out the best in his side.

He said: "It's a game we're thoroughly looking forward to and it's a massive occasion for us. If we win on Sunday it should give us a boost in the league.

"There's a place in a cup final up for grabs and I've sensed all the boys are up for it.

"It's live on TV and that's an added bonus. Weexpect a big crowd - as well as everyone who'll see it on the BBC - and that adds extra excitement to it."