Ayr vs Livingston preview - Top two prepare for crunch clash

Posted Saturday, February 12, 2011 by PA

Ayr start a demanding week with a top of the table clash against leaders Livingston.

Manager Brian Reid is able to bring back striker Michael Moffat after he was cup-tied for last weekend's defeat to St Mirren.

Defender Willie Easton returns after injury while Martin Campbell is also expected to shake off a knock to play.

Not such good news for Reid is the continued absence of Bobby Donnelly and Dean Keenan through injury, while Alan Trouten (suspension) is also missing and frontman Andy Rodgers (knock) is doubtful.

Reid said: "We face Livingston, Brechin and then Forfar and that will be a real test of our resources. We beat Livingston before so we know we can do it."

Livingston add new boy David Cowan to their squad for the trip to Somerset Park.

The former Dundee defender has agreed a short-term deal with the Second Division leaders and could make his debut, however centre-back Michael O'Byrne sits out through suspension along with defensive colleague Cameron McDonald (hamstring).

Midfielder Liam Fox is available after a ban while striker Marc McNulty may be included after scoring twice for the club`s youth side last weekend.

Livi boss Gary Bollan said: "This will be a really tough game, as it was the last time we were down there.

"I have watched Ayr myself recently and they have grown into a really strong team over the season so we will need to be at our best to take the three points."