Irvine Meadow are hoping to access the riches of the Scottish Cup by taking a leaf out of Broxburn’s book.
That’s the view of Medda boss Colin Spence who reckons a recent clash against the West Lothian outfit was the catalyst for an 11th hour push for an SFA club licence.
Spence has been taken aback by the sheer volume and speed of improvements made to facilities at Meadow Park in recent weeks and months.
He’s looked on in awe as general manager Brian Lamb and a hardy band of committee men and volunteers work round the clock in a bid to meet the necessary criteria for a licence ahead of a February 24 deadline.
The installation of floodlights is in full swing with a new medical room, upgraded dressing rooms and toilets among an impressive array of works on the go.
And Spence reckons it all stems back to his side’s 3-0 second round Soccer Shop Challenge Cup victory away to Broxburn in November.
The Albyn Park side achieved a full licence in 2019 which allowed them to compete in last year’s Scottish Cup .
They enjoyed a money-spinning run to the fourth round where they were eventually knocked out by Premiership outfit St Mirren.
Spence said: “The committee and volunteers have done a fantastic job but I’ve got to take my hat off to Brian.
“He’s worked exceptionally hard behind the scenes and he keeps everyone on their toes.
“He’s constantly asking questions and on at you– sometimes too much – but you need someone like to lead from the front.
“I think going up to Broxburn last year really brought home the opportunities a licence can bring.
“The money clubs at our level can make with a decent run in the Scottish Cup pretty much pays for the licence itself.
“If we can get a licence in place in time for next season it opens up a few doors for us on and off the park.
“Some of my best memories as a player were the Scottish Cup runs I enjoyed with Auchinleck Talbot.
“Playing Hearts away is a day I’ll never forget and I’d love for some of our players to experience something like that for themselves.”
