Messages of support have flooded in for Arthurlie as the Barrhead club aims to make history this weekend by lifting the Scottish Junior Cup.

More than a quarter of a century has passed by since the Dunterlie team last held the famous trophy.

However, manager Colin Reilly and his players can become legends on Sunday as they face Ayrshire rivals Darvel in the final at Broadwood Stadium, in Cumbernauld.

Around 2,000 Arthurlie fans are expected to be there to cheer on their heroes, with many more watching on television as the action is screened live on BBC Alba.

And, ahead of the match, people across Barrhead and beyond have been showing their support, with several businesses displaying ‘good luck’ messages in their windows.

Local dignitaries have also rallied round to wish Arthurlie well as the club seeks to add to its previous cup triumphs in 1937 and 1998.

East Renfrewshire Provost Mary Montague, who will be attending the match, told the Barrhead News: “It’s been a monumental effort getting to the Scottish Junior Cup Final and this match will be remembered for many years to come.

“The fixture means so much to everyone involved at the club and I’m looking forward to being at the game on Sunday.

“I’m sure the atmosphere will be incredible, as the support this season has been absolutely phenomenal.

“Good luck for the final – I’m sure everyone in Arthurlie and beyond will be cheering you on.”

East Renfrewshire Council leader Owen O’Donnell added: “Well done to Arthurlie for such a great cup run and getting to the final for the first time in 26 years.

“It’s a proud day for the town and the whole of East Renfrewshire.

“We’re all behind you. Good luck and bring home the trophy.”

Councillor Chris Lunday, who represents Barrhead, Liboside and Uplawmoor for the SNP, has been an Arthurlie fan since he was a child and said it will be “great” to cheer them on in such a prestigious match.

“I am delighted to see Arthurlie make the Scottish Junior Cup Final for the first time in over 25 years,” he added.

“Congratulations go to all those involved with the club this season – players, coaches, staff, volunteers and fans," he added. “Best of luck to the team. C’mon the Lie.”

Fellow councillor Angela Convery added: “It has been a pleasure to watch my home team flourish this year.

“I am sure the Arthurlie fans will be there in droves to show their support.”

Barrhead’s MSP Tom Arthur also passed on his best wishes.

He said: “From the jubilant scenes at Celtic Park in 1937 to the more recent triumph at Fir Park in 1998, Arthurlie fans’ unwavering support has been the lifeblood of the club, fuelling their success, inspiring generations of players and bringing some sporting pride to the town of Barrhead.

“I still remember going along to Love Street to watch Arthurlie beat Kilwinning Rangers in the 1998 semi-final. Hopefully we can draw some inspirations from that famous cup-winning team.”

East Renfrewshire MP Kirsten Oswald praised everyone at Arthurlie for showing “grit and determination” to reach the cup final.

She said: “All the hard work and commitment from players, staff and supporters has paid off.

“These are days which don’t come very often – it’s the first time since that brilliant victory in 1998 – and we should enjoy every minute.

“The local community is very fortunate and very proud to have a club like Arthurlie at our heart – a club which means a great deal to people in Barrhead and beyond and which contributes hugely to life in our local area.

“The club and community are so connected and Arthurlie reaching the final is a great thing.

“When I was first elected in 2015, I was delighted to mention ‘the famous Arthurlie Football Club’ in my maiden speech, knowing how well respected the club is for its tireless spirit.

“I am absolutely sure this is the spirit that the team, the fans and everyone at Arthurlie will take into the final.”

West Scotland MSP Paul O’Kane, who is a former pupil at St Luke’s High in Barrhead, said lifting the cup on Sunday would be an “historic achievement” for the club.

The Labour politician added: “I want to wish Arthurlie all the very best for the final and tell them that I believe they’ll go on to bring more success to the football club, regardless of how the season ends.”