19th January 1929 Celtic 5 Arthurlie 1 SC
In 1897, a Celtic side had suffered a traumatic 4-2 defeat at the hands of non-league Arthurlie in a Scottish Cup first round tie. A year later, a much improved Celtic team thrashed Arthurlie 7-0 at the same stage of the Scottish Cup. So, when the teams were paired again on this day in the first round of the 1929 competition, there was much anticipation among the fans.
Manager Willie Maley took no chances and put out a strong side – John Thomson in goal, Jimmy McStay at centre-half and Jimmy McGrory up front – although he did give some newer men a run-out, like ex-Wrexham man John Donoghue in the left-half position; Maryhill boy Willie Gray, better known as ‘Wuggy’ on the left-wing; and a young inside-forward from Linwood called Peter Scarff making his debut in that game.
Above: Peter Scarff ( 2nd left in front row of the 1931 Scottish Cup winning team)
On a dull but dry day, the surface a heavily sanded pitch, Celtic took control from the start, Jimmy McGrory opening the scoring in 5 minutes, outside-right Paddy Connelly getting the second in 25 mins and Jimmy McStay making it three with a 20-yarder just before the interval.
In the second half, the Arthurlie defence just could not cope with McGrory, who used his power and strength to score two more, giving him a hat-trick and Celtic a 5-1 win.
Jim Craig
Jim Craig Celtic Supporter's Club 