Stirling Albion v Forfar Athletic – match preview

The ‘Loons’ return to league action following their Trust Trophy defeat at Kirkcaldy last weekend when they visit Forthbank Stadium on Saturday to face the ‘Binos.’

It will be the first competitive clash between the sides since April Fools Day in 2017, the Athies coming out on top that afternoon in the shadow of the Wallace Monument to the tune of 3-0.

The sides go into this weekend’s clash locked together in the cinch league2 table on nine points, Forfar just edging third spot on goal difference.

Interestingly Gary Irvine’s squad remain unbeaten in the league with a record of two wins and three draws, while Kevin Rutkiewicz’s side have a record of three wins and two defeats.

The Forfar squad were as ever were in good heart at training in midweek.

The manager made five changes to his startging line up for last week’s cup tie, but a few of those who sat out are expected to return for the Albion fixture.

Apart from long term injury victims Darren Whyte and Sam Fisher it would appear Andy Munro who missed out last week through injury is again a doubt.

Albion also lost out in cup tie action on Saturday past losing 1-0 at Links Park to Stewart Petrie’s outfit.

A familiar face in the home line-up to fans who watched the on line streaming of our games last term will be Daniel Scally who moved on to Forthbank in the summer.

Albion completed their tenth close season signing this week with arrival of 18 year old Leo Watson on loan from Hearts.

Another hard fought tussle is in store, that is without doubt, but Gary and his players will be keen to get back to winning ways after three successive drawn matches on league duty.

Dan McFarlane will be in charge of a Forfar Athletic fixture for the first time.

As mentioned earlier in the week, admission to Forthbank on Saturday is by cash at the turnstile, admission prices as follows;-

Adults £14

65& over £10

Students £10

Under 17’s £5

Under 12’s free if accompanied by a paying adult

Enter by Gates 1& 2 in the West Stand.