Forfar Athletic v Ayr United - Preview

Forfar Athletic and Ayr United go into Saturday’s fourth round William Hill Scottish Cup tie at Station Park with obviously the carrot of a last sixteen place up for grabs and of course the financial implications that could come with it.

The fact that the ‘Loons’ shipped nine goals in two league fixtures last week will probably see the ‘Honest Men’ who also have a great track record in recent times in both the Scottish and League Cup go into the game as favourites, although the Somerset Park side’s league form has also been patchy this season. In the one clash between the sides this term down at Ayr in August late counters from Gavin Swankie and Martyn Fotheringham clinched a 3-2 success for Dick Campbell’s men against Mark Robert’s troops.

The Station Park supremo has moved to strengthen his injury depleted squad over the past 24 hours securing the services on emergency temporary transfers of goalkeeper Jack Hamilton from Hearts and midfielder Willie Robertson from Dundee United. As long as clearance comes through from the SFA both will feature in the pool for the cup tie.

The home side will again be minus long term injury victims Odmar Faeroe and Keith Gibson with Derek Soutar and Danny Denholm also ruled out. Mark McCulloch is available as his one match ban for his red card at Brechin is served in league fixtures only. The visitors are however hit by suspension with influential midfielder Ryan McStay ruled out.

The tie the first ever between the sides in the national tournament is in fact  the only senior fixture in Tayside on the day and home officials are naturually praying for a larger than normal attendance.

The usual SFL admission prices of £12 for adults, £6 concessions will apply.

The game will be refereed by former Scottish cricket team captain, now Premier League official George Salmond.

With a heavy frost again forecast overnight, this could well be the first occasion that ‘Loons’ officials, players and of course supporters will see the benefit of the 3G surface at Station Park.