AN ANGUS charity hopes to cash in on cup final fever tomorrow when Rangers lock horns with Zenit St Petersburg in Manchester.

Members of Lippen Care will have a keen eye on the UEFA Cup final after landing what could turn out to be a prized commodity if Rangers lift the silverware.

The organisation, which built and equipped the Strathmore Hospice at Whitehills Health and Community Care Centre in Forfar, has a much sought-after football autographed by the Glasgow side up for grabs.

It has been running a fund-raising draw for the ball, which reaches its climax the very week the Light Blues’ trophy hopes will be decided.

Big-hearted first-team players agreed to provide a signed ball after learning of the hard work done by volunteers to support hospice patients.

Lippen Care secretary Ian Duncan said yesterday, “Rangers are inundated with requests to do this, so we are very grateful to the players for taking the time to help us out.

“It’s quite amazing how both events reach their peak at the same time and that we’re both hoping for success from this week.

“After Wednesday there might be euphoria or it could end in disappointment. I hope it’s euphoria.”

Mr Duncan, a Dundee supporter, has pledged his backing for the Gers tomorrow night as he sits glued to the TV.

“I’ll be willing them on and I do hope that they lift the cup,” he added.

Tickets (£1) for the ball are still available at the Lippen Care stall at the Whitehills care centre and by calling 01382 380211.

The draw will be held on Saturday.

* Fresh from their own promotion play-off success, Arbroath FC are offering local fans the chance to watch Rangers’ bid to clinch the UEFA Cup in style.

The new hospitality suite at Gayfield will be opening at 7.15pm and, as well as the usual bar and refreshments, free stovies will be provided at half-time.

Club committee member Malcolm Fairweather said, “I know there are a lot of Rangers fans in the town so we decided this would give those who aren’t able to travel down to Manchester the opportunity to enjoy the match somewhere other than at home or in the pub.

“We are all still reeling a little after our own achievement on Saturday so, hopefully, Rangers can follow our example against Zenit St Petersburg and give Scottish football a massive boost.

“The hospitality suite has proved to be a great success in its first season of operation and the response from supporters and sponsors has been very positive …”