Former Greenock Morton forward Andy Ritchie has recalled the club's historic American signings from 1978, drawing a parallel to the recent arrivals of two US loanees. Ritchie's memories, reported by Yahoo Sports, come as Christopher Cupps and Dylan Borso joined Morton on loan from Chicago Fire this week.
Ritchie was a player at Cappielow in 1978 when chairman Hal Stewart orchestrated loan deals for two New York Cosmos youngsters, midfielder Ronny Atanasio and goalkeeper David Brcic. The move was an early attempt to tap into American soccer's growing popularity. "I need you to swing by Glasgow Airport tomorrow morning on your way in, pick up a couple of players, and bring them down here," Ritchie remembers Stewart telling him.
Who were Morton's first American players?
The two Americans, Ronny Atanasio and David Brcic, arrived during a promising period for the Ton. The team had just been promoted to the old Premier Division under manager Benny Rooney. Ritchie describes Atanasio as a pacy midfielder and an extrovert, while Brcic was a quiet but promising goalkeeper. Their arrival added a novel dimension to a squad built on strong camaraderie.
After giving the pair a tour of Cappielow, Ritchie recalls Atanasio's memorable first impression. Standing on the halfway line, Atanasio remarked, "Andy; if we had a place like this back home, we would scrap cars in it!" The anecdote highlights the vast difference between the glamour of the NASL's New York Cosmos and the humble realities of a Scottish ground in the late 1970s.
How does this connect to the current squad?
The story finds a direct modern link with the signings of Christopher Cupps and Dylan Borso. Cupps, a defender, made his debut in a recent match against Ayr United. Borso, an attacker, became the second loan signing from the MLS club. Their arrivals continue a sporadic thread of American influence at the club. The current Morton squad, managed by Dougie Imrie, is preparing for its next Championship fixture. Fans can view the full upcoming schedule on the club's fixtures page.
What is Morton's current position?
Morton currently competes in the Scottish Championship, aiming for a playoff spot. The team's form and league standing are detailed in the live standings. Integrating new signings like Cupps and Borso will be important for the second half of the season. The club's roster, including all current player details, is always available on the official squad list.
While the 1978 experiment was brief, it remains a colourful chapter in Morton's history. The current American loanees have joined a club with a unique past connection to US soccer. Morton's next match is a Scottish Championship encounter against Airdrieonians on September 14th.
