DONS CAN RUSSELL
TENNENT'S SCOTTISH CUP D-DAY... TENNANT'S SCOTTISH
By Ian Orr

RUSSELL ANDERSON reckons Aberdeen will go all the way to Hampden if they can only edge past Hearts first.

If they do reach the National Stadium it will be a return visit for the defender, who was in the crowd when the Dons last won the Scottish Cup 16 years ago.

When Brian Irvine scored the winner in a dramatic penalty shoot-out against Celtic, the delighted youngster dreamed of helping his hometown team

to cup glory.

It has remained an illusion ever since but the Scotland international believes his ambition can be fulfilled this season.

He said: "There's no escaping the fact a lot of big teams, including Celtic, are already out and either Hibs or Rangers will be eliminated so the competition is wide open.

"With all due respect to those still involved, the route to the Final is a lot more straightforward than it has been for years but then Hearts will feel exactly the same.

"There is a good chance to progress to the latter stages and maybe get another trip to the Final which is long overdue. The players have had a few words this week and everyone realises just how important this coming week can be for the club and we are in a good position to kick on.

"We need to be positive and go for the win. If we sit back they will try to bully us into submission with the crowd behind them. We have to stand up and be strong."

Anderson is praying Jimmy Calderwood will stay and finish the job he started.

He said: "We don't want another change. I asked Jimmy why he was still here and he just laughed but I am hoping that it is no more than speculation."