MATCH PREVIEW: Forfar Athletic v Airdrieonians

Forfar Athletic go into Saturday’s highly anticipated home clash with Airdrieonians knowing that if they avoid defeat it will mean a certain place in the end of season play-offs. 

However sitting as they are just one point behind leaders Stranraer and three in front of third placed Morton, the ‘Loons’ players will be desperate for all three points in what is their penultimate home game of the scheduled league season.

Accruing those points though will be no easy task against Gary Bollan’s side who have lost just once in their last twelve league outings, a 3-1 success over the Athies on St. Valentine’s Day included in that run.

Dick Campbell’s troops will go into the game boosted by a fifth successive Saturday victory last week over at Stenhousemuir. Their player pool will be augmented by the return of Stuart Malcolm to it’s ranks following suspension, but Mark Baxter and Derek Young may well require late fitness checks.

Honours are even between the sides to date this term.

At the Excelsior Stadium in October a late Gavin Swankie goal clinched a 2-1 win for the visitors. At Station Park in December, the ‘Diamonds’ took the lead with a goal from Patrick Boyle in the 57th minute, Michael Dunlop heading home the equaliser with ten minutes remaining, Airdrie more than meriting their 3-1 success on home ‘turf’ two months back.

Saturday’s contest certainly earns the Match of the Day tag in the SPFL League One and with the weather it appears set fare, let’s hope that a reasonable support makes their way to Station Park.

The level of backing that the players have received in recent week’s has been outstanding and hopefully that will continue through to the seasons’ conclusion.

Saturday’s fixture is kindly sponsored by Graham Environmental Services whose headquarters are in Blairgowrie.

The referee is Euan Anderson, recently elevated to the Premiership group of officials.

Admission prices are the normal £13/7 for the stand, £12/6 for the ground.

‘Loons’ season ticket holders should utilise voucher 22.

A reminder that the 1984 Lounge at the ground is open from 12.30p.m. to 2.45p.m. and again on the final whistle.