Raith Rovers boss Grant Murray sampled Ramsdens Cup final excitement as a spectator last season now he would like to enjoy the same feeling this year but as one of the managers taking part.
The Stark’s Park gaffer is aware there is a formidable hurdle standing in the way of that ambition in the shape of the quarter-final tie against Falkirk.
He insists the Bairns will be the toughest of opposition however, his players are in confident frame of mind following their last two matches.
Raith went toe-to-toe with Premiership side Hearts in the League Cup before losing out on penalties 11 days ago, and then came from behind to draw at Morton last Saturday.
Murray said: “It was definitely a point gained last week.
“We knew it would be tough after going to extra-time and penalties against a Premiership side like Hearts, especially down to 10 men.
“The lads were fantastic on the night and were really unlucky to lose out in the way we did.
“It had taken a lot out of the players, so they deserve great credit for coming from behind at Morton to secure a draw. It is never an easy place to go to, and they are a really well organised side, so we should be pleased to pick up a point.
“We even had a couple of chances near the end to win it.nWe now look forward to facing Falkirk in a game with a lot at stake for both sides.”
He added: “It is a competition we have been in from the start and we would love to win it.
“I was at last year’s final between Queen of the South and Partick at Livingston and it was a fantastic game and occasion for the fans and players.
“It would be great if Raith could sample that this season, but all we are concentrating on at the moment is this quarter-final against Falkirk.”
Murray has no injury concerns ahead of the tie, although Dougie Hill will miss out through suspension. The defender lost his appeal against the red card he received against Hearts.
Raith believed they had a strong case but Murray was keen to move on from the disappointment, saying: “It is done now.”
Meanwhile, Falkirk boss Gary Holt has admitted he would have preferred to be playing a team outside their division.
He said: “Facing Raith Rovers, a Championship side, away from home is as hard as it gets.
“It would have been nice to get someone from a different league again just to mix things up a bit and be at home, but we will just get on with things.
“It will no doubt be a good, enthusiastic cup tie, and when you consider it is being played on a Saturday with hardly any other football on it should attract a decent crowd.”