McCormack backs Aberdeen to carry Scots’ Cup hopes

Scotland national coach Steve McCormack has hailed the Aberdeen Warriors, ahead of the Scottish club’s Challenge Cup first round tie with Northumbria University.

The Warriors have a home tie for the first time in the competition, having previously travelled to Pilkington Recs and Skirlaugh in the last two seasons.

“They’re a shining light of Scotland Rugby League,” McCormack told Love Rugby League.

“It’s been very difficult with the league structure and the amount of teams up in Scotland.

“There’s been a lot of ups and downs within the actual domestic game, but Aberdeen Warriors have been up there, over the last couple of years, as one of the best sides in Scotland.

“Craig Parslow has done a very good job of developing the game.

“They’ve got their first home tie for a long, long time in the Challenge Cup, so, fingers crossed, everyone will get behind them.

“They’ve got a good chance of winning.”

McCormack acknowledged that the draw has conspired against the Warriors in the recent past, but the club has the full support of everyone in Scottish rugby league.

“They’ve been a bit unfortunate with the Challenge Cup draws [in terms of distance],” McCormack added.

“The big thing with the Aberdeen Warriors is that everybody’s behind them.

“The coaching staff, from the national team down to everybody concerned with Scotland, are very proud of them.

“So the Challenge Cup for me is the best cup competition within world rugby.

“So for them to be involved is fantastic, but to get a home tie is even better.

“It’d be brilliant if they can progress into the next round.”