“I felt very relaxed about it all.

“It wasn’t planned for me to come on against Shrewsbury but then Davey Gibson, who was hurt in the second game against Manchester United, got a knock early on and aggravated the injury.

“In the dressing room at half time Davey said he was in a bit of pain and it was decided to see how it went in the second half and bring me on if necessary.

“We’d played about 10 minutes when Ron Wylie said ‘Davey’s coming off. You’re on.’ and I felt quite calm about it.

“I’d been substitute for the previous two games and by now had got used to the though of being suddenly brought on.

“All I felt on Saturday was cold.

“I warmed up for a couple of minutes and can’t really remember what I was thinking expect what an appreciative crowd our fans are.

“They were chanting ‘Bruce Rioch, Bruce Rioch’ as I stripped down and gave me a marvellous ovation as I came on.

“And they changed for Davey as he trotted off to the bench.

“When I got out I had a quick word with Brian Godfrey to see whom I had to pick up in midfield and then got on with the game.

“I remember when I scored the ball hit someone - I think it was one of the Shrewsbury player, but can’t remember who.”

Bruce Rioch.


“We’ll just have to wait and see.

“Obviously Bruce will come into the reckoning [for the League Cup final] as will a lot of other players.

“There’s quote a long time to go before Wembley and it will be case of who is in form at the time.

“I’m glad he came through all right against Shrewsbury, because I know the second half of the season is going to be harder than the first.

“Our name and tradition go on the block every week and things are going to become more difficult as the season goes on.

“This is why I was especially pleased with our win over Shrewsbury.

“The team showed the right attitude after beating Manchester United.”

Vic Crowe.