Annan Athletic v Forfar Athletic - Match Preview

This The ‘Loons’ complete their thirty sixth game of the William Hill League2 campaign with a visit to Annan on Saturday.

Manager Jim Weir is delighted that we are going into the final fixture with a play-off spot secured but he has emphasised to the players that it is important that they keep the unbeaten run going in what will be the club’s 50th competitive game of the season to date. Naturally all hope that number will rise to 54 in the weeks ahead.

Another target for the squad undoubtedly at Galabank is to breach the fifty point mark, which would see another landmark box ticked.

However it will come as no surprise with the first leg of the play-off in mind that the Athies management team intend to make a few changes to the starting line up in Dumfriesshire. This all part of the planning for the games ahead, but Jim also realises the importance of keeping the togetherness element that has built up within the squad intact. Youngsters including Aiden Haddow, Matthew Strachan, Tyler Pasnik, Mackenzie Lemon and Jamie Richardson will no doubt come into the equation on the day, while there could be a lengthier run out for Ross MacLean as his rehabilitation continues. On the injury front Matty Allan is still ruled out but Mason Munn is back in full training with parent club Rangers and is available.

The three league games between the sides this season have all been won by the home team. The ‘Loons’ secured 1-0 and 2-1 victories in Angus, while Annan triumphed 3-1 on their own ‘turf’ in December, so the aggregate score is even heading into Saturday’s clash as well.

No doubt the home side who have had a season of mixed results on the pitch, but financial stability secured thanks to a cup tie visit to Ibrox will be keen to send their fans home happy and into an ever decreasing close season break, while for Stuart Morrison and his colleagues vital fixtures still lie on the immediate horizon.

Referee on Saturday is Gary Hanvidge.

Admission prices at Galabank are as follows;-

Stand – Adults £18
Concessions £14
12/16 year olds £7
Under 12’s £3

Terracing – Adults £16
Concessions £12
12/16 year olds £6
Under 12’s £3

Tickets can be purchased in advance, see the Annan Athletic website for full details, although a payment on the day facility is available.

Supporters of the visiting team are made very welcome in the club’s social club situated at the ground.

Saturday’s other William Hill League2 fixtures;- East Kilbride v Clyde, Edinburgh City v Dumbarton, Elgin City v Stranraer, Stirling Albion v The Spartans