MATCH PREVIEW: Forfar Athletic v Dunfermline Athletic

Gary Bollan and his staff could not have got a tougher start to their Station Park reign than a visit from league leaders Dunfermline Athletic in what is nevertheless a mouth watering Boxing Day clash.

The ‘Pars’ moved six points clear of main challengers Ayr United last Saturday, courtesy of a 1-0 win over Stenhousemuir at East End Park, Shaun Rooney their scorer.

However on the same afternoon, the ‘Loons’ fans in attendance at Cliftonhill would have been heartened by the second half display in particular from the Athies.

From his time at Airdrie, Gary is familiar with the Station Park squad and he was able to further assess them in what was a lively training session on Wednesday evening.

Sadly Thomas O’Brien, Mark Baxter and Michael Dunlop are all still sidelined with injury and of course Darren Hill will return between the sticks in place of Rab Douglas.

The aggregate score in two league fixtures and one cup tie between the sides this term so far is 11-0 in the favour of Alan Johnston’s side, this after they failed to lower Forfar’s colours in four attempts last season.

There would certainly be no better time for the home side still seeking their first league win since early September to pick up a three point haul.

Saturday’s game will be refereed by the experienced John McKendrick, who took charge of both our cup ties with Queens Park only a few weeks back.

The match is sponsored by Astute.

Admission prices are the normal £13/7 for the stand, £12/6 for the ground.Forfar Athletic season ticket holders should utilise voucher 17.

With the ‘Pars’ likely to bring a substantial travelling support, a bumper Boxing Day crowd is anticipated.

Turnstiles will be open at 2.15p.m. prompt.

A reminder that the 1984 Lounge at the ground will be open from 12.30p.m. till 2.45p.m. and again on the final whistle till approximately 7.30p.m.