Hurlford Thistle do nicely says soccer star Richard

May 29 2009 by Clair Fullarton, Kilmarnock Standard

A DREAM come true.

That’s how Hurlford Thistle player Richard Reeder has described helping his side reach the Scottish Amateur cup final on Sunday.

The Hurlford lad has never even been to Hampden, let alone played on the hallowed turf before, and it will be the pinnacle of an amazing season.

Richard said: “This season has been different class, absolutely phenomenal. I can’t wait to get to Hampden to play my part in hopefully what will be a victory for Hurlford.”

Although he is only 20, Richard has been a Hurlford player for an amazing 10 years, starting as a member of the boys club.

This year is his first with the amateur side and there can be no denying it has been a dream start for the Hamilton Tarmac worker.

The attacking midfielder added: “There are a lot of the boys in the team who come from Hurlford, although I’m probably one of the longest serving if you include the time with the boys club.

“The village is gearing up for the final in a big way, they’re all up for it, and most of them will be coming along to Hampden to cheer us on.

“I’m sure it will be an absolutely amazing day and a great experience.”

Hurlford Thistle is a very close-knit club, with six of the players in the squad coming from the village, a further six coming from Kilmarnock.

The rest of the team hail from Stewarton, Irvine and Cumnock. The furthest travelled is Tom Currie from Dumbarton.

John Bracki, one of Hurlford Thistle’s committee members, said: “Excitement is building and the people of Hurlford are right behind the team.

“We are hoping for a real family day out on Sunday and we’re hoping that as many families can come out and support us on our big day.

“It would also be nice to see former players, coaches and committee members, who have served Thistle over the years, at the game.

“It would be great to see them and renew old friendships at what is a historic occasion for the club .”