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PADDY Boyle is hoping Hampden brings out the best in Ayr United as he prepares to play at the national stadium for the first time ever.
The Honest Men travel to face Queen’s Park in their fourth round replay after Saturday’s tie ended in a goalless stalemate.
Boyle admits Ian McCall’s side fell well short of their capabilities on home soil but believes their surroundings could help spark an improved display on Tuesday evening.
The former Everton, Partick Thistle, Dunfermline and Airdrie full-back told CCP Sport: “We were actually pretty happy that we got the replay because we were miles below where we can be on Saturday.
“We spoke all week about not underestimating Queen’s Park, because we know they are a decent team on a good run.
“But too many players on the day didn’t play well enough and we’re pretty glad to get a second bite at the cherry.
“I’ve never played at Hampden myself, so I’m looking forward to it and the rest of the boys are looking forward to it as well.
INCENTIVE
“It will be empty but it’s a good opportunity to play at the national stadium and we can’t be as bad as we were on Saturday.”
Boyle, who lives within half a miler of Hampden, reckons the fifth round draw that took place on Sunday has also added extra motivation for both sides – and for prospective opponents Clyde and Stirling Albion, who replay their tie next week.
The 29-year-old added: “We’ve got to get through this tie first but I’m sure all four teams will think it’s a good draw for them and will fancy themselves.
“It’s a massive opportunity for one of us to get to the quarter-finals. The incentive was there on Saturday but it’s possibly even bigger now.”
