PROVIDING the predicted blizzards scheduled to hit the country tomorrow and Saturday somehow manage to miss the Borders, a full schedule of sizzling football matches is forecast, writes John Slorance. Hawick Royal Albert and Gala Fairydean are set to cross swords for the second time this season when they meet at Albert Park on Saturday. The two old rivals drew in their last outing, with Fairydean snatching a point thanks to a last-gasp equaliser.
Albert manager Graeme Chadwick told TheSouthern: “We know what Gala are all about and we know the importance of derby games like this, so hopefully we will get a win this time.”
Hawick are without the suspended Ryan Shepherd, a former Gala signing.
Fairydean team boss Garry Fraser commented: “We have lost our last three games and are not playing as well as we can do. However, I am sure we can turn this around, but it will be a difficult game against Hawick who will want to prove themselves.”
Gala have Marc Berry missing due to suspension.
Selkirk entertain Eyemouth United at Yarrow Park and reflecting on his side’s chances of getting something out of the match, Selkirk manager Mike McKinnon said: “Eyemouth have been doing well this season and have a top manager in Carl Hudson. I played in the same side as Carl when he was with Spittal Rovers and he has also played at the highest level in English football.
“He really knows the game and will have his team well organised for Saturday. If we show the same effort and play in the same manner as we did against Craigroyston, we are in with a shout of doing something though.”
Selkirk are still without Jason Inglis, Euan Pritchard and Barry Milven.
Peebles Rovers travel to Fife to tackle Burntisland Shipyard, while Kelso United face an in-form Leith Athletic side – who have scored 13 goals in their last two games – at home.
In the Premier Division, Vale of Leithen tangle with bottom- of-the-table Edinburgh City at Victoria Park.