MATCH PREVIEW: Forfar Athletic v Ayr United
[Thursday, 20 November 2014 13:57]
Ayr United will arrive at Station Park on Saturday as one of the two teams to date who have ‘lowered the Loons colours’ in league action this season. Two goals in the closing five minutes of the contest at Somerset Park from Scott McLaughlin back in late August secured the points for the Mark Robert’s side.
The home side however will go into the game exceptionally keen to get back to winning ways after three draws and two defeats in their last five outings, at the same time hoping without doubt to preserve their unbeaten home league record.
Dick Campbell was hopeful in midweek that he might be able to welcome a fully fit Danny Denholm back to the fold, but a late fitness test will decide. Martyn Fotheringham did complete a full training session on Tuesday evening, but Mark Baxter and Derek Young are certain absentees. Also side lined is Jim Paterson who serves the second game of a two match ban following his red card against Morton.
Former Livingston and Arbroath defender Michael Travis listed as a trialist on the bench at Glebe Park on Saturday past could again feature.
The visitors are also badly hit by the injury ‘bug’, with five first team pool players absent last week. They subsequently lost by the odd goal in five to Peterhead at home, former Scotland internationalist Craig Beattie one of their scorers, this after having been humbled 4-0 at Alloa in a cup replay the previous midweek.
Their ranks have however been boosted this week with arrival on loan of Motherwell defender Adam Cummins.
The Somerset Park men currently sit in seventh place in the table, seven points adrift of Dick Campbell’s side who despite a sterling effort in a cracking local derby against Brechin City last week slipped to second in the table behind new leaders Morton.
The home side will hope to carry many of the pleasing features of last week’s display into what is their only home league game of the month.
All connected with the ‘Loons’ were once again delighted with the level of backing that the players received from a substantial travelling support against City and hopefully the support will be of similar vintage this weekend.
Ayr’s visit is sponsored by that long time supporter of the Station Park cause, Alan Davie of Alan Davie Haulage Ltd.
The referee is Andrew Dallas promoted this term to the list of Premiership officials.
Ground admission charges are the normal £12 for adults, £6 concessions, with stand entry pegged at £13/£7. Forfar season ticket holders should utilise voucher 12.
The 1984 Lounge at the ground, access to which can be gained at the west end of the main stand will be open from 12.30p.m. to kick-off and again on the final whistle until 7.30p.m.