Binos chase first away win of the season

Jan 11 2013 by David Ogilvie, Stirling Observer

Stirling Albion boss Greig McDonald is hoping a change of luck can help his side can claim their first away league victory of the season at Broadwood.

The Binos have picked up just two points out of 27 on the road — in draws at Peterhead and East Stirlingshire — and are a point adrift at the foot of the Third Division table going into the match against Clyde tomorrow.

However, performances have improved in recent weeks and Stirling were unfortunate to lose 3-2 at home to Queen’s Park last Saturday, when missed chances cost them dearly.

Injury and illness and suspension have also hindered the Binos in recent weeks, with David McClune, Graham Weir and Jamie McCunnie adding to McDonald’s woes after missing training on Tuesday with a flu-like virus.

Skipper Brian Allison was able to train and could return to face Jim Duffy’s side, while fellow defender Gary Thom is back after a ban before missing next weekend’s home game with Annan Athletic.

McDonald said: “The guys have given me everything in the last few weeks and we look a real threat going forward. We just need a bit of luck in front of goal and to cut out some of the mistakes at the back because we are conceding too many.

“We are really looking forward to the Clyde game and, hopefully, we can get our first away win of the season.

“I think we would have got it in our last match at East Stirling if Gary Thom had not been sent off.”

Meanwhile, Stirling Albion could find themselves playing in an 18-team league next season if radical plans to restructure the Scottish game are voted through.

Steering groups from both the SPL and the SFL met with the Scottish FA earlier this week as plans for a 12-12-18 structure gather pace. The move would involve a merger of the SPL and SFL, fairer financial distribution and relegation and promotion play-offs.

●The Stirling Albion Lotto rises to £11,500 on Wednesday after the jackpot went unclaimed. The numbers were 19, 20, 38 and 39. Two three-number winners each win £125: John Martin and Sally Jackson.