Local firms arrange dream Hampden day for academy boys

Local companies McGill’s and McTear’s auctioneers have come together to provide Morton’s youth academy kids with a dream day never to be forgotten by sending them to Hampden for the club’s historic Betfred Cup semi-final against Aberdeen.

Jim Duffy’s Ton and Derek McInnes’ Dons face off at Hampden on Saturday 22 October 2016 in what is our first appearance at this stage of a national cup competition in 35 years – and 37 years since contesting a final-four tie at the national stadium.

And due to the generosity of club sponsors McGill’s and McTear’s, 110 Ton starlets and youth coaches will be there on the day to support the first-team in their bid to reach the final.

Club director Brian Clements of Glasgow-based auction house McTear’s has stepped in to provide match tickets, while Greenock bus company McGill’s have laid on two luxury coaches to whisk the boys to the national stadium in style.

Morton head of youth Derek Anderson said: “Reaching the Betfred Cup semi-final is a tremendous achievement for the club. The fantastic gesture from both McTear’s and McGill’s has enabled the kids representing the club at academy level to share in the experience.

“We would like to extend a huge thank you to Brian Clements of McTear’s and Ralph Roberts of McGill’s for their generosity and making it all possible.”

McGill’s managing director Ralph Roberts added: “This is a fantastic experience for these youngsters and McGill’s are more than happy to help make it a memorable day”

Club director and McTear’s owner Brian Clements said: “We are delighted to be able to support the youth academy players and staff in attending what is a huge occasion for the club. We felt compelled to step in and pick up the costs of all the youth academy tickets for the semi-final to ensure the future stars of tomorrow would not miss out on his memorable match.”

Images: Ross Cameron