Houston we have lift off

Jordan made Gers bow in Cup... now it's about fulfilling Ayr dreams in it

- ALAN ROBERTSON

HIS framed shirt hangs on the wall, the words from Steven Gerrard that made it through a fog of excitement and frost in his head.

Now youngster Jordan Houston is desperate to deliver as memorable a cup moment for the town of Ayr after swapping a relegation rollercoaster for a potential Hampden high.

The 23-year-old has racked up more than 100 appearances for the Honest Men, having spent almost 13 years on Rangers' books. A freezing night at Cowdenbeath in 2019 provided him with the summit of his apprenticeship, his Light Blues debut as an 86thminute sub in this competition.

Being called on by a Champions League winner while surrounded by a stock car racing track, it's a bow that beggars belief.

Houston said: "It's something I will never forget, making my debut, because I'll never be able to forget Cowdenbeath where I made it! Total contrast, I know, but that's why the Cup is great for clubs to get big draws.