John McGlynn believes Raith Rovers must overcome Scotland’s most in-form side if they are to dump Aberdeen out of the Premier Sports Cup.
The Stark’s Park gaffer was in attendance at Pittodrie on Thursday evening as the Dons defeated Breidablik 2-1 in the Europa Conference League third qualifying round, completing a 5-3 aggregate triumph.
Stephen Glass’ men have thus far balanced their continental exploits with Premiership duties perfectly, with two wins from two in the league.
The likes of Scott Brown, Christian Ramirez and Jay Emmanuel-Thomas have settled in superbly since their summer arrivals, while young stars like Calvin Ramsay and Jack MacKenzie have shone.
And McGlynn has nothing but praise for the Reds, predicting a blockbuster when two free-flowing outfits meet on Sunday.
“To get to this stage of the cup is great but we would love to go a little bit further if we can,” said McGlynn. “That will take an enormous effort from us because, personally, I feel Aberdeen are the most in-form team in Scotland right now.
“They have been outstanding and the football they are playing is very exciting.
“They’ll be favourites and expected to win the football match.”
Dismissing the notion that Rovers are likely to deviate from their own attacking ways, McGlynn added: “I think it’ll be a really good game because we are playing in a very similar style to them. It could be an open game with a good few goals.”
Eye off the ball
McGlynn, meanwhile, was candid in his hope that Aberdeen’s congested fixture list — Sunday will be their seventh game in 24 days — will count in Rovers’ favour.
“We’ve got to hope that they do just take their eye off the ball with all the other things they’ve got going on,” added McGlynn.
“They’ll have had another game and a late night, whereas we’ve been able to prepare and rest.
“Hopefully that redresses the balance a little bit in our favour.
“We’ve got to rise to the challenge — it’s as simple as that — and I think the players are excited by that. I’m hoping we can create a shock.”
