Match Preview: Berwick Rangers v Annan Athletic – SPFL Ladbrokes League Two
The ‘Gers return to Shielfield Park for the first time in 2017 tomorrow, when they will host Jim Chapman’s Annan Athletic. The match could provide the opportunity to see no less than 3 players debut, whilst most will also be looking forward to seeing Aaron Murrell & Euan Spark, who could be in line for their home debuts.
Berwick Rangers Team News:
Boss John Coughlin has to contend with a defensive injury crisis with Robert Wilson still out injured, and being joined on the sidelines by both Jonny Fairbairn and Michael Dunlop.
Euan Spark’s recent arrival on loan will help bridge some of the gaps, with the youngster set to fill in on the right of defence. Pat Scullion, who signed for the club permanently last week will likely continue alongside Brian Martin, though the addition of Dutch youngster Renne Donker does give Coughlin another option in central defence.
Coughlin will also have to make a decision on the man behind the defence. With Kevin Walker still out injured, the boss added Scottish youth international Devlin MacKay in a deadline day loan deal from Kilmarnock, and the decision on who will sport the number one jersey will be between him and youngster Sean Brennan.
Further up the park, winger Ricardo Leao Kessells could debut after signing on deadline day.
Annan Athletic Team News:
Chapman’s side will be looking to make it three wins on the bounce and solidify their play-off position, with the Galabankies currently sitting in 4th.
Speaking to Annandale TV ahead of the game, Chapman said: “We can go to Berwick with a spring in our step after our last couple of performances.
“They’re a dangerous side who have struggled in the first-half of the season. We’ll take nothing for granted in a search for consistency. It’ll be a tough match but I think it’s one we can approach with a lot more confidence.
“Anyone can beat anyone in this league, so we’ll be hoping things go our way. We’ve added loan signings and we’ve got stronger, we’ve got good competition for places and that can only be good for us.”
“Berwick have good players and they’re always well organised with John. When you’re down there things don’t always go your way – it’s one of those things.”
Chapman added left back Jordan Stewart on loan from St Mirren on deadline day, as well as Thomas Fry from Motherwell, with both in line to debut.
Match Odds:
SPFL title-sponsors rate Berwick as slight favourites to take this one, despite lying lower in the League Two table.
Berwick Rangers – 7/5
Draw – 5/2
Annan Athletic – 17/10
Match Admission:
Adults – £12
Concessions – £7
Under 16’s can claim a free season ticket from the club’s main office prior to kick-off.
Match Officials:
David Lowe takes charge of this one, assisted by David Roome & Jonathan Bell.
