Match Preview: Berwick Rangers v Annan Athletic

The ‘Gers go into tomorrow’s home game with Annan Athletic looking to bounce back from an away defeat and maintain an unbeaten home record so far this season.

However, Berwick will be well aware that improvement is a must if they are to beat their opponents, with Annan somewhat of a ‘bogey side’ for the Dream Team in recent times.

Berwick Team News: 

Midfielder David Banjo will miss tomorrow's tie with a thigh problem

Midfielder David Banjo will miss tomorrow’s tie with a thigh problem

Berwick’s defeat at Borough Briggs saw Steven Notman once again appear from the bench as his return to full fitness continues. The midfielder played his first 90 minutes since March in the Development League win over East Stirlingshire on Tuesday and will no doubt be targeting a starting berth as manager Colin Cameron seeks to improve the balance of the side.

Elsewhere, David Banjo remains on the sidelines after hobbling off in the 2-2 draw against Arbroath three weeks ago, while Euan Bauld and Calum Helm are long-term absentees – although the latter did come through surgery successfully on Wednesday.

Annan Athletic Team News:

Jim Chapman’s Annan have found things difficult on the road so far and will be looking to make amends on their first trip to Shielfield of the season.

The Dumfriesshire-based side are clearly well capable with wins against the likes of East Fife under their belts already this season, but have struggled to find consistency and have suffered surprise defeats such as that against East Stirlingshire.

While the ‘Gers may be unsure which Annan team will turn up this weekend, they’ll be well aware that the defence must improve, with Annan having netted seven in their last three games.

Striker Smart Osadolar will no doubt be a threat having netted four league goals already this season, and so Berwick will need to be more responsible defensively to get a result.

However, there is some solace for the back line with Chapman revealing to Annandale TV that Peter Weatherson will miss out through a back injury.

The Galabankies will be however boosted by the return of Bryan Gilfillan, the former Northern Ireland Under 21 midfielder returning for a second spell with the club.

Admission:

Admission is as usual:

Adults – £12

Concessions – £6

Match Odds:

SPFL sponsors Ladbrokes fancy the ‘Gers as slight favourites going into this one, with a price over evens offering good value given our impressive home form thus far.

Berwick Rangers – 6/5

Draw – 13/5

Annan Athletic – 37/20

Match Officials:

Scott Millar will take charge of the clash of the two Borders sides, and will be assisted by both Graeme Stewart and Richard Murray.

Enjoy the game and let’s hope for a response to last week’s defeat!