A ROW has broken out over the decision to stage this season's Euroscot Eng Sectional League Cup Final at Gasworks Park, Larkhall, on Sunday, November 2.

Finalists Blantyre Vics and Cumbernauld United have both condemned the choice of the 133-year-old venue, which is notorious for its poor drainage.

Vics secretary Andy McDade saying: "No disrespect to the good people at Larkhall Thistle but, as a club, we consider the playing surface there demeans our first cup final appearance in 20 years.

"It's rare these days for Central District clubs to reach a final but this decision ruins the sense of occasion for players and fans.

"The hope is that appeals from both clubs may instigate a rethink by the people running our game."

And Cumbernauld United chief George Watson stated: "I could understand the West Region's thinking if Larkhall's ground was more accessible to supporters and likely to attract shoals of neutrals.

"It's anything but. In fact, I reckon the attendance could set a record low for a cup final at Junior level.

"Somehow I don't imagine they would have chosen the same venue if Pollok or Arthurlie had been in the final. It's hard to shake the feeling that Vics and ourselves are being treated as second-class citizens."

Furious Watson added: "If there was a dilemma over where to play the final why did they not consult the clubs? Andy McDade and I share the view that the grounds of Pollok, Maryhill, Cambuslang Rangers or Rutherglen Glencairn would be a better fit."