Clubs prepare to do battle in difficult ties this weekend

Oct 20 2011 by Andrew McGilvray, Hamilton Advertiser

FOUR points and three places separate Larkhall Thistle and Port Glasgow as they clash in the Central League First Division this weekend.

Both are poised on the fringe of the promotion pack seventh-placed Thistle are on nine points while Port are fourth with 13.

But the county side go into battle without goals ace Jamie Dunbar, who is on holiday.

Bellshill Athletic, on fifth place with 10 points, are at home to fourth-bottom Neilston.

In the Central League Second Division, leaders Carluke Rovers have a good chance to increase their three-point lead against basement battlers Newmains United.

Midfielder Craig Stark should overcome an ankle knock, but centre-back Davie Gray is a major doubt with a dislocated shoulder.

Lesmahagow, three points behind but with a game in hand, were encouraged by the form of Jordan Moore and Stewart Livingstone on their return, and this gives manager Robert Irving options for the trip to Johnstone Burgh.

Meanwhile, Blantyre Vics hope to ward off Glencairn and Neilston bids for goalkeeper Kevin Macklin ahead of the visit by Maryhill.

Manager Alan Shields said: Im expecting a similar game as St Rochs on a tight park, but, after Saturdays result, we will go into the game in high spirits.

High-scoring Forth hope to have top scorer Kenny Wright back to lead the line at home to Royal Albert.

Stonehouse Violet are at home to St Rochs, while Wishaw take on Rossvale, with head coach John McEwan assuming the managers role following Alex Youngs resignation on Thursday.

Young explained: There has been no fall-out its down to personal and business reasons. I feel I shouldnt hold on to the job when I cannot give it a 100-per-cent commitment.

When I tendered my resignation to chairman Bill Kilgour and secretary Robert Watson, they asked me to stay on as a committee member and I agreed.