Match Preview: Berwick Rangers vs Cowdenbeath – SPFL Ladbrokes League Two
Following a positive midweek result against Clyde at Shielfield Park in midweek, Berwick return to their home ground attempting to record two consecutive victories for just the first time all season.
Fans, both home and travelling, will be welcomed in the Red Lion (Berwick) prior to and following the match, where they will be able to enjoy complimentary food when purchasing a drink. The Red Lion is just a 2-3 minute walk from Berwick-upon-Tweed Railway Station.
Berwick Rangers Team News:
Steven Thomson should be fit after being forced off with the flu in midweek.
First-team boss John Coughlin has moved to recall former Hibernian stopper Sean Brennan from Bonnyrigg Rose. The young ‘keeper had been loaned out to Robbie Horn’s side after the arrival of Devlin Mackay on loan from Kilmarnock, however an injury sustained during the warm-up in midweek has sadly left Mackay unable to feature for the foreseeable future. As such, Mackay has returned to his parent club.
Coughlin faces further selection dilemmas in his defence, where Kevin McKinlay will serve a one-match ban after an accumulation of yellow cards. Given his recent return to fitness, Jonny Fairbairn may make his return to the side, though January addition Renne Donker is another option for the boss, whilst a change to a straight four at the back could also be on the cards.
Michael McKenna will also watch on from the stands as he still has another two games of his suspension to serve, but there is some positive news in that winger David Verlaque will once more be available following the completion of his ban.
Defenders Michael Dunlop and Robert Wilson both remain out with long-term injury.
Cowdenbeath Team News:
Cowdenbeath parted company with Liam Fox this week after the manager resigned from his position following a disappointing run of form.
Earlier today the Blue Brazil announced ex-Hearts, Kilmarnock and Raith Rovers man Gary Locke as his successor, and the former Scotland youth international will now be tasked with ensuring Cowdenbeath can avoid finishing in the dreaded relegation play-off spot.
Despite the appointment, Neil Hastings and Burton O’Brien will be the men tasked with bringing 3 points back to Fife tomorrow, with Locke set to watch on from the stands.
Kyle Miller misses out through suspension, the midfielder an ever-present for Cowden since rising through the ranks as a youngster. The away side will also be without influential defender Dean Brett who was recently released, the full-back recently signing Bonnyrigg.
Match Admission:
Adults – £12
Concessions – £7
Note: Under 16’s can obtain a free season voucher from the club’s main office prior to kick-off.
Match Odds:
SPFL title-sponsors Ladbrokes fancy Coughlin’s men to secure an unbeaten season against their Fife opposition, pricing the home side as favourites in this one.
Berwick Rangers – 23/20
Draw – 12/5
Cowdenbeath – 9/4
Match Officials:
Steven Reid officiates this match, assisted by both Graham McNeillie and Ryan Lee.
Enjoy the match!
