A Fife football team is hoping history will repeat itself this weekend.
An under-16 team from Kelty will join forces with a young squad from Blantyre to represent their country in the Coalfields Regeneration Trust’s home internationals.
They will take on sides from English and Welsh mining communities in the annual tri-nation event which Scotland has won only once in its 10-year history.
That victory came two years ago, when the event was last staged in Wales.
Nicky Wilson, Scottish trustee of the Coalfields Regeneration Trust reckons the Scots could notch up another win on Welsh soil.
“We have two very strong and committed teams this year and I would love to see history repeat itself with another Scottish victory,” he said.
“But whatever happens on the field of play, I know our teams will be great ambassadors for Scotland.”
The event will be held in Wrexham, and a full programme has been laid on for the six competing teams, including VIP seats at the Chester FC v Sutton United National League match courtesy of Chester FC Community Trust.
Kelty Hearts, who won the right to represent Scotland when they lifted the Coalfields Community Cup last month, will be represented by Calum Whitton, Rian Richardson, Thomas Copeland, Paul Mitchell, Neil Mitchell, Liam Jackson and Sean Cunningham.
Kelty’s coach Gary Lindsay said: “Our lads are really excited about their trip to Wales and having the chance to play for their country.
“It is a great honour to pull on a Scotland jersey at any level and they are determined to do us all proud.”
Coach Stevie Owens who will accompany the Blantyre Soccer Academy team, added: “We are absolutely delighted to be playing in the Coalfields Home Internationals, and the lads who are going are thrilled at the chance to turn out for Scotland.
“It would be great to bring the Home Internationals Trophy back to Scotland on Sunday night, but this is going to be a memorable trip for them all, whatever of the result.”
