Tennis: Blackhall stars primed for cup progress

Blackhall tennis men have the opportunity to hansel new artificial clay courts tonight when they help launch the annual East region qualifying for the Scottish Cup.

Fielding a team that is liable to include top junior talent like Reuben Henry alongside experienced coach Brian Barnet the Keith Terrace outfit should prove too strong for lower league side Dalkeith.

Also in the frame for Blackhall this season is Euan McIntosh, who posted a resounding singles in an ITF junior event in Holland yesterday as did Capital compatriot Alexandra Hunter.

Thistle, reinforced by the return of East county star Ross Murdoch after two years in New Zealand, are expected to overpower a talented North Berwick team currently making their way up the league ladder, especially with home advantage.

Other ties tonight see Braid await Colinton while Barnton Park receive Aberdour and Murrayfield are at home to Abercorn. David Lloyd will head for Hatton while Craigmillar Park  cross the Forth to tackle Kirkcaldy.