In their last outing, Vale of Leithen silenced the critics with a resounding 6-1 victory over Lothian Thistle/Hutchison Vale, writes John Slorance.
It was the Innerleithen side’s first triumph for a while and it was a real confidence booster. Since then, Vale have not kicked a ball in earnest due to having had three games postponed in succession.
Boss Fraser Ogilvie told The Southern: “It’s horrendous and absolutely demoralising. Following our win over Lothian Thistle/Hutchison Vale we have been desperate for a game, but it just hasn’t happened. We have got Tynecastle this Saturday and hopefully the game will go ahead.
“A few players have left Vale, but we are in the process of bringing new faces in. There will be no panic signings, though, as we don’t just want anybody. I know the kind of players I want in the team and it might take a bit of time.”
Vale are without the suspended Ryan McKenzie.
Selkirk host Eyemouth United at Yarrow Park. The two sides met just two weeks ago and Selkirk manager Mike McKinnon said: “As our game was off last Saturday this will be the second time we have met Eyemouth on the bounce.
“The last game was very close and I am expecting this one to be the same.”
The Souters are without Kenny Munro who is missing due to suspension.
Hawick Royal Albert tackle Easthouses Lily at Albert Park without Jay Paterek, who is serving the second of a four-match ban.
Kelso United, who are on the boil at the moment, will be hoping to continue their recent successful run by doing the business against Craigroyston at home.
Jason Girdwood’s Peebles Rovers are away to Burntisland Shipyard.
With interim manager Stuart Robertson, along with coach John O’Hare, in charge, Gala Fairydean are involved in King Cup action, crossing swords with Preston Athletic at Netherdale in a second round tie.
Commenting on his club’s current situation Robertson told us: “Preston are in the Premier Division and will be favourites, so we will have nothing to lose.
“We will have four or five new players in the squad and they will all have to be signed as it’s a cup tie. I know nothing about these boys, but they have been recommended by John O’Hare. I have only recently met John and have been impressed with his training methods.
“He is a young coach and very enthusiastic. Saturday’s game is really a trip into the unknown for John and me and we will just to wait and see what happens.”