Match Preview: ‘Gers bolster defence ahead of Methil trip
It has been a busy week for Player-Manager Colin Cameron as the boss moved to make his third loan signing inside three days, with Hibernian youngster Neil Martyniuk joining Kyle Wilkie and Jamie Wilson in becoming Borderers until the end of the 2014/2015 campaign. The young defender will be looking to follow in the footsteps of both Danny Handling and Jordon Forster, who experienced successful loan spells at Shielfield Park before going onto establish themselves as regulars in Hibernian’s first team squad.
Berwick Team News:
Neil goes straight into the squad for tonight’s game, although whether or not he will feature following the comfortable nature of Saturday’s victory remains to seen. Goalkeeper Wilson is likely to deputise once more for the more experienced Michael Andrews, though Kyle Wilkie should start on the left flank once more after impressing on debut in Montrose, assisting Blair Henderson’s second goal for the club.
Henderson himself should also be in line for a second consecutive start after sealing the points for the ‘Gers in Angus. The striker’s chances of playing are done no harm by the news that Darren Lavery remains sidelined through injury.
Cameron, Billy Bald, Ross Drummond and Stephen Tulloch also remain out, meaning the boss may be tempted to stick with a winning side. Having won twice already at Bayview this season, the ‘Gers will be looking to generate some momentum with the business end of the season in flow.
On the game, Cameron noted that: “We secured a good win at Montrose on Saturday and that had us moving up the table from second bottom.
“Reaching the play-offs will be tough but we can do it and winning this game would go a long way to making it happen. We have not put a consistent run of victories together all season so it would be perfect timing to do so now.”
East Fife:
East Fife boss Gary Naysmith is still sweating on the fitness of Nathan Austin ahead of tonight’s clash, with the pacey forward coming up for some particularly close attention in the home side’s 2-0 victory over Arbroath at the weekend.
The former Hearts man will be without Julen Extabeguren, but hopes to welcome back Liam and Kevin Smith.
Naysmith has spoken of his wariness of what he believes are a ‘dangerous’ Berwick side ahead of the tie, noting his belief that a win tonight would ensure we couldn’t steal fourth place. With both managers noting the importance of the tie in relation to the promotion play-off race, it looks set to be a cracker.
Admission:
East Fife are operating reduced admission for this evening’s match, with pricing as follows:
Adults – £10
Concessions – £5
Match officials:
Crawford Allan is the man attributed to taking control of the game, and he will be assisted by linesmen Graeme Leslie and Calum Spence.
