Annan Athletic vs Albion Rovers FC preview - Cox out for Annan

Posted Sunday, May 22, 2011 by PA

Striker David Cox, who suffered a broken metatarsal recently, is Annan's only absentee as they look to overturn a 3-1 deficit from their first meeting with Albion and win promotion to the Second Division.

The experienced pair of Andy Aitken and Sean O'Connor are both expected to feature at Galabank despite carrying knocks with manager Harry Cairney preaching patience to both players and fans.

Cairney said: "We have a Cup final at our ground and it is a Cup final we are starting two goals down in.

"It would be great to get an early goal but what we cannot do is panic if one does not come as there are 90 minutes available to force extra time or win the game."

Albion may well be in the driving seat, but they will be missing defender Alan Benton through suspension.

The hard-working Steven Canning is a doubt after cutting his foot while the creative pair of Chris Boyle and Steven Lawless are both struggling with knocks.

Manager Paul Martin said: "This game will be won or lost by the team that does best what they have been doing all season."

"It has been 22 years since Albion won anything and we are one of only two clubs that have never been out of the Third Division since it was created so it is a massive occasion.

"This game is all about focus and ensuring you win your headers and tackles."