Forfar Athletic v Dundee ‘B’ – Match Preview

The ‘Loons’ players get a welcome break from William Hill League2 duty on Saturday first following two disappointing results on the road with match day three in the KDM Evolution Trophy the order of the day and with it a visit to the Alpha Projects Stadium @ Station Park from Dundee’s Under 21 side.

Manager Jim Weir has enjoyed the opportunity in this competition to utilise his full squad on a rotation basis in the previous games against Hibernian’s youngsters and Montrose, but admits that he might field a slightly stronger starting eleven this time round. The management team feel it is vital to get back to winning ways and rebuild confidence ahead of two home league fixtures, the first of those against Dumbarton on Saturday week.

Nevertheless a few of those who were on the bench at K Park seven days ago can in all probability look forward to ninety minutes of match action on field. It is also important to pick up the three points on Saturday to climb the thirty club league table and set up a place in the second phase of the competition. The higher you finish in the rankings also brings with it the reward of a better seeding position in what on paper looks a slightly convoluted draw system for the next stage of the tournament.

On the injury front Ross MacLean is out of hospital following his ankle break and subsequent surgery but of course a lengthy period on the sidelines likely to stretch into the New Year lies ahead. However an undoubted bonus has seen Craig Slater take part in both training sessions this past midweek, though whether he will be risked from the off against the Dens Parkers is open to conjecture. On the availability side, Lewis Martin is back in the squad having missed the opening games in this competition due to a suspension carried over from last season.

Dundee have lost their opening two games in the tournament but as their appearance in the final of the Scottish Youth Cup last term showed they have a group of very talented young players at their disposal. They are coached by Scott Robertson a popular player in the twilight of his career with the Athies, before becoming Assistant Manager at the commencement of Gary Irvine’s reign as the man in charge.

The man in the middle for the tie is Lewis Hogarth who will be in charge of a ‘Loons’ fixture for the first time.

Reduced admission charges will be levied for this Saturday’s fixture which has the usual 3pm. kick-off.

Adult admission will be £10 for both the Stand and Terracing with Concessions prices for those aged 12-17 and 65 & over pegged at £5.
Under 12’s will be admitted foc (must be accompanied by an adult)

Tickets are available for online purchase at;- https://forfarathletic.ticketco.events/uk/en/m/e/forfar_athletic_v_dundee_b_0925

CASH payment only turnstiles will also be available on the day.

Forfar Athletic season tickets are of course not valid for this fixture.

The 1984 Lounge at the ground with a selection of alcoholic beverages and soft drinks available will be open to all supporters from 12.30pm. to 2.50pm. and again on the final whistle for approximately two hours.

The Refreshment Kiosk within the ground will be open as normal. However the Club Shop on this occasion will only be open prior to kick-off.

There is no match sponsor on Saturday but we are delighted to welcome three parties to the Hospitality Lounges and thank them for their valued support;-

Andrew Bentley & Friends, Ewan Callander/Graham Brown & Friends, John Vannet & Friends.