MATCH PREVIEW: Forfar Athletic v Annan Athletic

Ladbrokes SPFL League One Play-off Semi-Final 2nd Leg

Following the proverbial game of two halves at Galabank on Wednesday evening, Forfar Athletic and Annan Athletic head into the second leg of the play-off semi final all square.

Jim Chapman’s side had to say the least the better of the first period with the ‘Loons’ seemingly unable to get out of first gear and it was no surprise when they took an early 2-0 lead through goals from Peter Weatherston and Aiden Smith.

There was certainly much trepidation from the visiting support at half-time about the eventual outcome but whatever was said in the away dressing room during that 15 minute interval, it certainly worked wonders.

The Athies were transformed in a second half that they totally dominated.   However it looked as if after wave upon wave of attacks that a goal was not going to arrive Jamie Bain going close on a couple of occasions, while David Cox rattled the crossbar and saw another effort cleared off the line.

However two goals in a minute in the final embers of the contest, the first a superb header by Michael Travis from a Gavin Swankie corner, the second a wonderfully executed 22 yard free-kick from the returning Martyn Fotheringham put a fairer reflection on the score line.

Both team are likely to be along similar lines for Saturday’s second leg, although Annan talisman Peter Weatherston seemed to pick up an injury prior to being substituted on Wednesday evening.

Home fans will be hopeful though in view of recent events not over confident, that Gavin and his team mates will start off as they finished on Wednesday evening on the front foot.   It could well be a game where an early breakthrough could prove vital in what will be the third clash in eight days between the sides.

A reminder to the fans that in the event of the scores over the two legs being level at the end of 180 minutes and in play-off ties, away goals do not come into the equation, thirty minutes extra-time will be played with a penalty shootout also a possibility if required.

Experienced whistler John McKendrick will pay his first visit of the season to Station Park, though he did take charge of the ‘Loon s’ visit to Gayfield in February.

Admission prices on Saturday are £10 for adults, £5 concessions with season tickets not valid.

Due to the close proximity of the two legs and taking copy and printing deadlines into account it was decided not to produce a programme for this match.   However a limited number of team sheets will be available free of charge from the Club Shop, Refreshment Kiosk and within the 1984 Lounge prior to kick-off.

There is no match sponsor but club officials are grateful to George Henderson Electrical Contractor who has taken up a hospitality package at short notice.

The 1984 Lounge will be open as usual from 12.30p.m. till kick-off and again on the final whistle till approximately 7.30p.m. with all spectators welcome.    It will not however be open for tea/coffees during the half time interval.

Wednesday night’s other first leg tie also ended all square at Links Park, Montrose and Peterhead drawing 1-1.

The two legged final is due on Wednesday 17th and Saturday 20th May with the lower team of the two competing clubs in the league ‘ladder’ as of May 6th at home in the midweek first leg.