Lowland League: Subo warns Spartans need to be on song to see off Strollers

Posted on Friday, September 3rd, 2021

It’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated North Edinburgh derbies since the sides first met following Civil’s introduction to the Lowland League in 2016, as all roads lead to Muirhouse on Saturday afternoon.

In what will be the ninth meeting of the local sides in the Pyramid Competition, Dougie Samuel and Gary Jardine will be working on their last minute tactics, pondering on their moves like Chess Masters eyeing up their opponents Pawns as they seek to earn the early bragging rights.

It’s be an intriguing start to the season for both sides who find themselves sitting in joint third place, on the same number of points and goal difference, but with the hosts having scored marginally more times to nudge ahead on the roster.

Spartans got back to winning ways on Tuesday night with Malt and Hops Man of the Match Ian McFarland the catalyst being the victory over Cumbernauld Colts.  The talismanic no-nonsense midfielder was in confident mood as he looked ahead to the game.

“The win during the week definitely sets us in good stead ahead of Saturday. It’s what we needed, especially going into such a big game against Civil. 

“I know there’s always talk about bragging rights and such like, but I genuinely think moving up the league is far more important than any of that chat if I’m honest and of course, a win on Saturday would see us leapfrog Civil too.  However, there’s no doubt it will be very tough.  Civil are flying just now and are up there on merit so it sets it up for a great game.”

With a recent injury to star stopper Blair Carswell along with suspensions and unavailability, the previous few games have seen several changes in personnel on the pitch however the return of key players was particularly encouraging for ‘Subo’.

“It’ll be also be good to have Bolo back in the side and of course Sam Jones was playing on Tuesday after his time out so he’ll be sharper for Saturday as a result.  Hopefully big Dan (Baur) will be in with a shout for a spot in the squad following his time on the treatment table too.  Having a near full squad to choose from after such a gruelling run of games will no doubt be a headache for the Gaffer, but it also creates competition for places within the bunch of lads too.”

It’ll be a rare outing on a grass paddock for the Spartans side, but its not something McFarland has offered much thought about.

“I think for the some of the older boys in the side they enjoy playing on the grass a bit more – kind of traditional feel I guess –  but to be honest, it’s the first North Edinburgh derby of the season – I’d happily play it on the surface of the moon and as long as you get win, it doesn’t matter what you play on.”

Kick-off at Christie Gillies Park is at 3pm.  Admission Prices are £7 adults and Under 14s are free with a paying adult. Like ourselves, you can purchase tickets for the game via the Fanbase app on your smartphone, or you can still pay at the gate.


Next Fixture

                     
Date: 16/11/24
Opponent: Stirling Albion
Venue:Ainslie Park
Competition: SPFL 2
Kick off: 3.00pm

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