THIS Scottish Cup third round tie between two local rivals saw Watch run out worthy winners against a Harestanes side, who although willing and determined could not cope with Campsie's direct play.
Blackies could not have asked for a better sta
rt when they were awarded a penalty in the second minute. O'Neill was pulled down as he raced into the box and Mark Fitzsimmons left keeper Blair stranded with his spotkick.
This setback did not deter the home side as they proceeded to pass the ball well, but they continually broke down when it came to getting behind a strong Watch rearguard. Harestanes were often exposed as Blackies played the ball over the top of their defence.
Gemmill made it 2-0 in the 32nd minute when an O'Neill pass sent Forrest away on the right, the wing back raced down the back line and his cross was turned into the near post by Gemmill.
O'Neill made it 3-0 in the 40th minute when a Hamilton free kick went behind the home defence and the young striker slammed the ball past Blair.
Watch went 4-0 ahead in the 66th minute when a Harty pass to Meggat onto Forrest across goal saw O'Neill finish superbly.
Harestanes were making fewer raids and only a cross from McClune saw Tait saving well.
O'Neill completed his hat-trick in the 69th minute when Reid passed down the right to Meggat then onto O'Neill to volley home.
Watch made it 6-0 in the 88th minute when Chris Gannon passed a long ball to Meggat, who passed to O'Neill and the striker completed a perfect afternoon with his fourth goal.
Watch play Kilwinning Rangers away in the Golden Goal Trophy on Saturday.
Kick-off is 2pm. Tote numbers for Saturday were 24 and 23. There were no winners, £1,050 next week.
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