MATCH PREVIEW: Forfar Athletic v Stenhousemuir

The ‘Loons’ begin a run of five home games in six weekends with the visit of Stenhousemuir to Station Park on Saturday. The home side will go into the game in great heart following their demolition of Brechin City last midweek, also knowing that a victory over the ‘Warriors’ would see them move above the visitors into the top half of the table, albeit on goal difference.

Martyn Corrigan’s side have however had the upper hand to date in the two fixtures between the sides this term. The men from Ochilview who like the homesters are through to the last sixteen of the Scottish Cup, as well as having been Ramsdens Cup semi finalists won the August fixture between the sides at Station Park by the odd goal in three. Then in late October at Larbert the final score line of 1-1 did not tell the full story of a very competitive fixture that was very pleasing on the eye throughout. John Gemmill so often a ‘thorn in the flesh’ of Dick Campbell’s troops gave the home side an early lead on the day, Dale Hilson netting the equaliser before the break.

Forfar go into Saturday’s match with Mark Baxter a major doubt after his injury at the Glebe. However Gavin Swankie has taken part in two full training sessions this week and if not in the starting line-up for Saturday’s contest, he is certain to feature in a closed door friendly arranged for next Tuesday evening. Odmar Faeroe will also come back into the reckoning for a defensive berth, having returned from a short festive break in his homeland.

The man in the middle on Saturday is experienced Glaswegian official Stevie O’Reilly who of course issued three red cards to ‘Loons’ players when last in charge of a Forfar fixture.

The match is sponsored by those great supporters of the club over the years, Dundee based accountants, Findlay & Company .

Forfar Athletic season ticket holders should utilise voucher 15 on the day.