MATCH PREVIEW: Forfar Athletic v Brora Rangers

Highland League Brora Rangers are the visitors to Station Park on Saturday for the ‘Loons’ second pre-season friendly fixture, the match having the usual 3p.m. kick-off.

The club’s paths have crossed only once before when the Athies triumphed 3-0 up at Dudgeon Park in the Scottish Cup back in 2008.

Gary Bollan like many of the home support were heartened by the performance against Raith on Tuesday evening and it looks likely that close season signings Jim Lister, Lewis Milne and Stuart Malcolm who missed the clash with the Starks Park outfit could play some part in proceedings on Saturday.

The manager also hopes to have completed another signing, perhaps even two prior to Saturday’s fixture.

Pre-season games are all about attaining full match fitness and the home management team will see Saturday’s contest as another vital part of their programme to have the full squad in peak condition for the opening competitive contest against Dumbarton in the Betfred Cup on July 16th.

Brora’s standing in Highland League football has improved beyond recognition in recent times, aided by some shrewd investment by local businessmen.

They came within a whisker of attaining SPFL status in May of 2015 when as Highland League champions they lost out by an odd goal to Montrose in the first ever Pyramid Play-Off final.

Last season they finished third in the final analysis on 85 points from 34 games, four points adrift of winners Cove Rangers.

Former Ross County stalwart Richard Brittain was the man at the helm last term, but he moved on in the summer to be replaced by Stuart Golabeck.   Stuart however decided only last week to step down due to business commitments and his right hand man Grant Munro who wore the colours of both Caley Thistle and Ross County with distinction has taken over the managerial reins.

Saturday’s game will be refereed by locally based Grade One whistler Mike Ronconne.

Reduced admission prices are £6 adults, £3 concessions.

Forfar Athletic season tickets are valid and will be on sale in the 1984 Lounge prior to kick-off.

The 1984 Lounge itself will be open from 1.30p.m. till kick-off and for approximately 45/60 minutes after the final whistle.

The new Club shop will also be open prior to kick off and during the half-time interval selling a wide range of Forfar Athletic merchandise.

Fixture Cards, as well as a few team sheets for Saturday’s game will be available in the 1984 Lounge, or at the Refreshment Kiosk and Club Shop.