LIAM ‘Jinky’ Campbell is looking forward to the biggest game of his career to date when Gala Fairydean Rovers take on Linlithgow Rose in the final of the East of Scotland Qualifying Cup at Penicuik on Sunday.

The 22-year-old football coach from West Lothian has been in fine form for Gala of late and scored a double in the semi-final against Kinnoull.

His second was arguably the goal of the tournament and the most important in Gala’s season.

With seconds remaining and Gala 3-2 down, Campbell equalised with a sensational overhead kick from the edge of the area which sparked wild celebrations on and off the pitch.

Gala went on to win that game on penalties to secure a place in the final.

Campbell told the Border Telegraph: “I’m buzzing. That was definitely the best goal I’ve ever scored and it came at the right time.  I can’t wait for Sunday. This will be the biggest game of my career so far and all the players are determined to win the trophy.

“We’ve probably under-performed in the league and should have finished higher up but that’s been down to consistency. If we apply ourselves properly there is no reason that we can’t win the cup.

“Our performance against Bonnyrigg Rose in the quarter-finals was incredible and that shows how good we can be.

Border Telegraph: Liam Campbell in action earlier this season. Picture Thomas Brown Liam Campbell in action earlier this season. Picture Thomas Brown

"The club are running a bus for the final and I think there will be a good crowd and there will be a great atmosphere.

“Gala Fairydean Rovers is a tremendous club, full of great people who all want the best for the players. They made me feel welcome from the minute I arrived.

“I’m really enjoying my time at the club and looking forward to playing on the new pitch in front of the Netherdale stand next season.

“The Lowland League is full of good teams and it’s great to test yourself against the likes of Rangers and Celtic which is a different experience.”

So where did the nickname Jinky come from? “I was on trial for Pumpherton and beat three or four players and someone called me that and it just stuck, but I think it’s quality.

“I was signed as a full-back by Neil Hastings but Jimmy (Scott) is playing me a bit further forward which I like. Neil was a brilliant manager who did a lot for my career and I am delighted that he has gone on to bigger and better things." (Hastings in now first team coach at Livingston in the Premiership)

Gala Fairydean Rovers are running a free supporters bus to Penicuik this Sunday. Admission prices to the final are £10 adults and £5 concessions. Contact the club for more information.