Thanks for your replies guys. Jim H and Brainier I would like to use your quotes in the book. If you want to email me on ronniemcde@hotmail.co.uk with your full names you will be credited.
Incidentally Alfie Conn was an Ally signing Brainier, possibly his last. Not sure if he played in any of his 5 League Cup games start of that season. Im pretty sure he was injured for at least the Partick game so It may very well be that Hay gave him his first start.
Also the first programme for the season V Partick says pretty much the same as the Dundee Utd one Jim in that he welcomed the return of the League Cup group format in preparation for the promotion push.