Preview: Annan Athletic v Berwick Rangers – SPFL Ladbrokes League Two

Manager John Coughlin is hoping that his side will continue their strong defensive work over the past few weeks when they visit Annan Athletic in Scottish League Two this afternoon – with Galabank a ground the ‘Gers haven’t won at in ten trips.

That dates as far back as 2011, but after four consecutive clean sheets, Coughlin revealed, understandably, that he’d be delighted to come away with another.

“Our aim is to obviously carry on the good work we’ve been doing defensively over the past few weeks and if we come away from there tomorrow with another clean sheet I’d be absolutely delighted,” said Coughlin. “Every point’s a prisoner at the moment with the battle at the bottom of the league still ongoing.”

“Despite our recent record there – I lost my first game in charge there 1-0 and we’ve beat them at home – there’s nothing to fear playing Annan. It’s just about going there and focusing on the things we do well.”

Berwick Rangers Team News:

After his deliberate handball on the line in the 1-0 win over Stirling Albion last week, Brian Martin misses out through suspension, while Allan Walker continues to be sidelined with an ongoing back problem.

Coughlin has also decided to include Daniel Watt in the matchday squad after being impressed with the youngster’s performances for the U20s in recent weeks.

“He’ll join us in the first team squad for the rest of the season now,” revealed Coughlin. “I was at the game on Wednesday – he’s a big strong boy and has been doing well at that level – and it’s time he came in and got a taste of some first team action and exposure of what we’re trying to do at this level.”

Annan Athletic Team News:

Jim Chapman has been busy adding to his squad as he looks to try to correct the Galabankies faltering form of late, and judging by the home side’s convincing 3-1 victory at Hampden Park in midweek, it looks like Annan may well be on their way to recapturing the momentum they built in the earlier portions of this season.

Barry Cuddihy joined the other Black & Gold side on a loan deal, joining from Championship side St Mirren until the end of the season last week.

One player who won’t feature is Greig McDonald who left the club by mutual consent as Cuddihy joined, however Steven Swinglehurst will be available for selection with his suspension kicking in from next weekend.

Match Odds:

Despite four clean sheets in a row, SPFL sponsors Ladbrokes expect Annan to continue their impressive home record against the ‘Gers, pricing the home side as favourites to win the match.

Annan Athletic – 5/4

Draw – 13/5

Berwick Rangers – 2/1

Match Officials:

Alan Newlands will take charge of the Border derby, assisted by both Frank Connor and Tony Kelly.

Enjoy the match and have a safe trip!