Preview: Queen’s Park v Berwick Rangers
Stephen Tulloch – Nearing a possible comeback
Fresh from Tuesday night’s Scottish Cup fifth round replay victory over Spartans, Berwick head into the second of their run of three games against the top three, with today’s match seeing the ‘Gers take a trip up to Hampden Park to face third-placed Queen’s Park.
The match will be shown live on BBC Alba (Sky channel 143), kicking off at 5.30pm and if you fancy a late trip up to the home of Scottish football, the Spiders are offering reduced admission rates.
Previous fixtures:
Berwick have failed to beat Queen’s Park in 90 minutes in three games between the sides this season. The clubs met in the very first game of the season in the Petrofac Training Cup, where the ‘Gers won on penalties after a 1-1 draw, while the two Scottish League Two games have finished 2-0 and 0-0.
Before this season, Berwick had a good record against the Spiders, winning five consecutive league games between March 2013 and February 2014. Overall, in the last 10 league encounters between the sides, Berwick have won five, drawn two, and lost three.
Berwick team news:
There are three absentees for the ‘Gers today on the back of Tuesday’s win over Spartans. Steven Notman – who moved into the top 20 of all-time ‘Gers appearance makers in midweek – was substituted midway through the first half with a knee injury so will not feature.
However, he, along with captain Stephen Tulloch, who is continuing his recovery from injury, are likely to be doing some work on the pitch before kick-off.
The only other player out is January signing Blair Henderson, who has a thigh strain.
Queen’s Park team news:
Manager Gus MacPherson is without James Baty for tonight’s match, but apart from that, he has a full squad to choose from.
MacPherson was disappointed with his side’s defeat against Annan Athletic last week, and speaking to Queen’s Park’s official website, expects a tight game against the ‘Gers.
He said: “I want a positive reaction from the squad after last week’s defeat but expect a tight game, as previous fixtures against Berwick this season have been. Berwick will be coming to Hampden in buoyant mood after beating league leaders Arbroath last week but it’s our home game and one which we will be looking to win.”
Officials:
The referee for this evening’s match is Nick Walsh, and he will be assisted by Graham Chambers and Jordan Stokoe. Fourth official is Gavin Ross.
Admission:
Adults – £5
Concessions – £1
