WE GIVE RIVALS POUNDING

ROWAN ALEXANDER last night claimed Gretna are being driven to cup glory fuelled by the doubters who say they've BOUGHT their way to the top.

He'll lead his side out at Hampden on Saturday knowing they've earned the right to face Champions League-bound Hearts.

But every day the Raydale gaffer hears fellow pros and pundits claim they've only done it because of Mileson's millions.

And every day he knows it puts another gallon in the tank of his squad to prove the doubters wrong.

Alexander said: "When people say things in the press it motivates players without even needing a team talk.

"Over the season people have had a lot to say about us, that we've bought our way to success, and it's a tool we use to our benefit.

"I used to take it as a personal insult as well but inwardly we know what we've had to do.

"Having the resources is reassuring but we've brought in a lot of players who have warmed the benches of teams they were with.

"Now they're in a cup final and the door that was slowly closing is open again."

It's fair to say Alexander's powers of persuasion - such as the offer of three-year deals in a game now bereft of security - have helped.

But you can't just turn pound notes into points or prizes. They still have to play 90 minutes the same as anyone else. And Alexander insisted: "I've no fears over players freezing.

"Even the younger guys are playing with confidence, they're used to creating chances.

"We haven't conceded a goal to any of the four First Division sides we've beaten along the way.

"But without a doubt Hearts will be the best team we've faced. No illusions - we're Second Division underdogs but we'll put on a good show.

"And we won't change the way we play either. We know we're NOT a good side when we lengthen the game. But there's no pressure on the players.

"They've had their day of that in the semi. The final will take care of itself. That's why we feel so confident because there's no tension."

Taken from the Sunday Mail