Lowland League | McFarland demands big team display on derby day

Posted on Friday, September 23rd, 2022

With the International window offering respite for the SPFL clubs, it’s business as usual for the Lowland League and all roads lead to Christie Gillies Park for yet another mouth-watering North Edinburgh Derby against Civil Service Strollers.

If any extra edge to the local derby is required, the hosts sit four points ahead in the table but having played one more game that Spartans, setting up a chance to narrow the gap with a game in hand.

The sides have met 10 times in the Lowland League so far, with Spartans having taken the derby honours on seven occasions and it’s a fixture that Skipper Ian McFarland relishes.

“Its one of the fixtures you look out for – and forward to – when they are announced in the close season. With the Club’s being so close together there’s always that little bit of an extra bite to it and there will be a buzz in the air when we get down to the ground on Saturday. “

Games are generally tight affairs between the sides, but in this first clash between the clubs this season, McFarland is keen to ensure it’s the Spartans who come away with the North Edinburgh bragging rights.

“Strollers are just ahead of us in the league so we know how vital it is for us to go out to get the win. The bragging rights would be something that would come along with the most important part which is of course getting the all important three points, that’s what our target is and really matters to be honest.

“The Gaffer has already laid out his expectations for the coming weeks ahead.  It’s no secret that the League is our main priority so it’s key for us that we turn up and put in a maximum shift on Saturday and maintain that momentum.”

Kick-off is at 3pm.  Admission is £8 Adults / £5 Concessions  Tickets are available in advance here https://app.fanbaseclub.com/Fan/Tickets/SelectType?fixtureId=1743