MATCH PREVIEW: Forfar Athletic v Rangers

The ‘Loons’ will welcome the Ibrox club to Station Park on Saturday for what will be the first of three visits this season, after their pairing in the first round of the yet to be sponsored League Cup competition.

Despite the fact that none of the visitor’s close season signings are allowed to play in this competition at present due to the registration embargo imposed by the authorities last year which runs till September 1st, Ally McCoist’s charges will still start the game as firm favourites to progress to round two of the tournament.

One interesting aspect of the signing embargo for home fans will be the return to Station Park of goalkeeper Scott Gallacher who in all likelihood will deputise for the ineligible Cammy Bell.

Scott was a highly popular custodian at Station Park a couple of seasons back while on loan from the Ibrox club and his progress since has been closely followed by the ‘Loons’ faithful.

Dick Campbell will have a larger pool to make his final selection from than he did for last week’s at times impressive win over East Fife in the Ramsdens Cup with only Michael Dunlop ruled out on this occasion through suspension, Gary Fusco, Marvin Andrews and Chris Templeman likely to feature in the sixteen man squad.

The match which is not being televised has a 3 pm kick off and the man in the middle is the vastly experienced Calum Murray.

The police have confirmed this morning that no tickets can be sold by the club on Saturday morning.

Friday is the final day for sales and tickets for the home support terracing only will be available from the Toy Castle in Castle Street from 10 am to 12.30 pm and from the Secretary’s Office at Station Park from 6 pm to 8 pm (Enter by main door at rear of stand.)

Club officials and Police urge supporters of both sides to come early on Saturday with turnstiles due to be open shortly after 1.30 pm

There will be obvious parking restrictions in the area of the ground with no vehicles allowed behind the main stand in particular.

With the home support end of the ground not going to be filled to capacity, the authorities have also asked the club to close the small section of terracing in front of the stand to the west of the tunnel area for operational purposes. The club apologise for the disappointment this will cause to supporters who normally stand in this area.

Finally the Directors of Forfar Athletic Football Club trust that all who attend the game will co-operate at all times with police and stewards and whether there from near of far enjoy the match.