During this season (2003/04) the fixture list did not fall kindly for me with regard to our SFA Cup matches. I had mentioned to some fellow supporters (and via the web site) that my only chance of seeing ICT in this seasons cup competition would come if we reached the semi-final or, indeed, the final. You could imagine my delight when we beat Motherwell to take our place at Hampden Park for the semi against Dunfermline. Although securing time off wasn�t a problem there was, however, one big logistical hurdle to overcome. Once again the SFA decided to hold the simi-finals over the Easter weekend. This brings many travel problems to the fore as you can imagine.
The rail route was riddled with engineering works resulting in various line blockages and flights to Glasgow were expensive especially with only two weeks or so to go before the semi. We had decided that the train would be the best option for us on this occasion. However, whilst searching the internet, a cheap(ish) return flight was found from Birmingham to Glasgow with British Airways, travelling out on Saturday morning and returning on Sunday afternoon. The flight was booked pronto.
We were also pleasantly surprised to find out that fellow supporters from the Midlands (the Pauliebee�s) were also booked on these flights so we had our own ICT party to and from the match.
The flight was slightly delayed leaving Birmingham but this didn�t cause any problems at the other end. We were picked up by ITN who whisked us down the road to his home where we were bedding down for the overnight stay.
From here it was via train into Glasgow to meet up with other supporters in Coopers at Central Station before we all headed out to Busby for pre-match buffet and drinks at the Cartvale pub (home of Caff�s mum and dad.). A bus was laid on for us to get to and from the match. The match itself wasn�t a classic but at least we scored first and gave us all something the cheer about. The equalising goal was real sickener but that�s football.
After the game it was back to the Cartvale for more beer and food. It was with surprise and joy that, at around 1730, in walked Caff and he joined the ICT support in a drink and a chat. A top day out.
