A crowd of over 400 turned up at a sunny Millfield last Saturday for the ‘winner takes all’ derby clash against Musselburgh Athletic in the East of Scotland League Cup. A win for either team would see them qualify for the last 16 of the competition, with the losers eliminated. Premier League Burgh were favourites and the return of former player/manager Joe Hamill to Millfield added a bit of intrigue to the occasion. The home side were missing Corey Robertson, Nick Aitchieson, Euan Watson, and Cammy Watson through injury and had Guy McGarry out through suspension. All five would be considered first team regulars so this would be a real test of Haddington’s resources. There was little between the sides in a keenly contested first half with the home side missing a couple of half chances and Hi Hi’s goalkeeper Cornet saving well from veteran striker King.
Haddington made an explosive start to the second half and two early goals put them firmly in the driving seat. First recent signing Dylan Tait took full advantage of a slip by a Burgh defender and he netted with a well placed shot to the delight of the big home support. Shortly after Auriemma broke free and the ball eventually broke to Tait who scored easily. Slack defending at a corner kick saw former Hi Hi Jackie Myles score and hand the visitors a lifeline. Musselburgh forced a number of corners in the closing stages but the home defence stood firm and Haddington moved into the League Cup knock out stages.
