Sir Alex Ferguson steps in to help Benburb fund mammoth Scottish Cup trip

Benburb have received an incredible lift ahead of their Scottish Cup second-round tie – thanks to none other than Sir Alex Ferguson.

The Govan club face a 600-mile round journey to Wick on 25th October, and the legendary former Manchester United boss has personally covered the cost of the squad’s overnight stay in Caithness.

Sir Alex grew up watching Benburb with his dad and has regularly spoken of his connection to the club. He recently visited the Bens and, after finding out about the travel demands of the tie, offered to pay for accommodation for the players and staff.

Co-manager Gordon Robertson told BBC Scotland it was “a wonderful gesture” and said the squad were “totally thrilled”.

He explained: “It’s a six-hour trip and it would have been a big outlay for the club. Sir Alex offered to pay for the players and staff to stay overnight before the Wick game. It’s very much appreciated.”

Instead of travelling on the day, Benburb will now be able to rest up the night before the match – thanks to the most decorated Scottish manager of all time.

The West of Scotland First Division side shocked Cowdenbeath 2-1 in the first round to set up the tie in the Highlands. A win against Wick would put them in the third round draw, with the potential of landing a major tie if they can go even further.

Robertson said Sir Alex was impressed by their win over Cowdenbeath and wanted to do his bit to help them progress.