Clydebank came from behind to book their place in the last 16 of the Scottish Junior Cup with a 3-1 win over Royal Albert on Saturday.
Allan Campbell’s first half strike put the hosts ahead but goals from Jordan Shelvey, Cammy McClair and Steven Higgins saw Bankies progress to the fifth round for the first time since 2010.
Boss Kieran McAnesnpie made just one change to the side that beat Cambuslang Rangers, with Chris Dooley replacing Adam Asghar at right back.
It was yet another slow start for Clydebank, who allowed their lower league opponents to give them the first scare of the game. A scuffed pass fell kindly into the path of Campbell who in turned skewed his shot off target as Bankies breathed a sigh of relief.
With eight minutes played, Clydebank created their best opportunity of the half. Dooley’s lofted free kick was missed by two Albert defenders, with Jordan Shelvey lurking at the back post, but his stabbed effort was well blocked by goalkeeper Somerville.
On the half hour mark, Bankies eventually succumbed to Royal Albert’s pressure and gifted them the lead. Centre back Fraser Stoble’s cross was missed by Fitzpatrick, and Greg Fernie was able to lay the ball off to Campbell who side footed home.
It was a wake up call for Bankies, who were visibly dazed by losing the goal. In fact, the hosts could’ve doubled their lead when Neil burst down the left wing, but thankfully for the Bankies back line his pull back allowed a recovery block to thwart any danger as Bankies trailed at the break.
A double switch at the break saw the introduction of top scorer Nicky Little and the Chris Black’s return from injury in place of Del Hepburn and Chris Dooley.
Early in the second half, Bankies had loud protests for a penalty kick denied when Alan Vezza’s shot was blocked by the hand of Chris Dolan, with referee Craig King unmoved.
The changes made the difference though, and Bankies were level just after the hour mark. Neat link up play saw Vezza’s pass flicked on by Higgins, with Rowan slipping the ball through for Jordan Shelvey – who took a touch before firing past Somerville as he entered double figures for the season.
Two minutes later, Bankies took control of the game and went ahead. Goalscorer Shelvey turned provider as he burst down the right crossed for Cammy McClair, who coolly took a touch before slotting into the corner.
From the restart, any hopes a comeback were ended when Martin Harty was dismissed with a straight red card for a late, wild lunge on Andy Paterson.
Nicky Little was next to try his luck, but his side footed effort from the edge of the area was safely gathered by Somerville.
And with seconds remaining, the Higgins duo made sure of Banies spot in the next round. Sean’s cushioned header set up Steven, who made room for himself and slotted the ball into the bottom corner.
