GALA FAIRYDEAN have high hopes of gaining promotion this season and this possibility is certainly not out of the Netherdale side’s reach, writes John Slorance.
The Fairydean still have a lot of hurdles to cross and, indeed, are set to face one on Saturday.
They are poised to host league leaders Coldstream in a match that is of vital importance for the two clubs.
Gala assistant manager and one-time Coldstream boss Jim McLean told TheSouthern: “Coldstream are flying high at the moment and will be coming to Netherdale looking for a win. However, so will we.
“We need points on board to keep in touch with what’s going on at the top of the league and that’s what we’ll be aiming for.
“It looks as though it will be a really close game, but these are the sort of matches that Gala relish playing in, as we seem to play better against top sides.”
Fairydean have Dean Boyne suspended.
Peebles Rovers recorded their first league win of the season, taking the scalp of Berwick Rangers Reserves.
It was a result that delighted manager Jason Girdwood.
“It was great to get a win over Berwick, especially as they had a strong team that included some first team players,” he told us.
“We defended well and were good when going forward and got it spot on.”
This weekend Peebles have a home clash with Leith Athletic and Girdwood added: “We are still team building and I am taking each game as it comes, but we go into the Leith match with confidence.”
Rovers have no injuries or suspensions.
Hawick Royal Albert are without Ronald Fleming, Paul Power, Danny May and Peter Keenan for their away meeting with Eyemouth United and coach Davie Aitkin said: “We beat Eyemouth at home in the league cup at the start of the season.
“This means nothing, though, as Eyemouth are a much-changed team since then – they have brought in new faces and have been playing well. I was pleased with our performance in our last match so we can take this into the game against Eyemouth.”
Kelso United entertain Craigroyston at Woodside Park. The Tweedsiders are a place above the capital outfit in the league table and this encounter has all the makings of being a close affair.
Without a win in their last four games, Vale of Leithen square up against Edinburgh University in a Premier Division battle at Peffermill. Vale are desperate to hit the victory trail and shall be gunning for full points.
Selkirk are without Jason Inglis and Euan Pritchard for their Image Printers Cup match against Spartans at Yarrow Park, while Selkirk goalkeeper Bruce Connelly’s loan deal to Kelso United has been extended.