Freeze good news for Fed cup hopes

HOPEFULLY, temperatures will rise sufficiently to allow some action tomorrow after last week’s local card was wiped out due to frozen pitches.

The postponed Scottish Cup ties have been carried over and both Downfield and Broughty Athletic are keeping their fingers crossed their tie gets the green light.

Last Saturday’s postponement could turn out to be a blessing in disguise for the Fed as the extra week has allowed two key players to regain fitness.

Brian Clark and James Collier would have struggled to make it last week but both came through a midweek friendly against Forfar WE, which Broughty won 3-0, and, providing they show no aftereffects, both will be in the squad.

Clark will be particularly keen to turn out against his former club.

The Fed have signed keeper Josh Allardyce on a loan deal from Carnoustie to provide cover for John Sinclair, who fractured an ankle in a recent friendly.

With the return of Clark and Collier, Jake Mair is the only Broughty player unavailable.

Downfield are in the happy position of being able to name a full-strength squad.

After last week’s debacle which saw their tie against Linlithgow called off shortly before kick-off, North End are hoping conditions relent to avoid the Lothian side making another wasted journey.

Manager Andy Heggie will be without Ryan Winter but, otherwise, should have a full pool to choose from.

Gary Robertson has joined Ryan Hunter on the transfer list at his own request and interested clubs should contact Andy Heggie on 07737 521024.

Lochee United look to be in fine shape for their Super League clash against Musselburgh at Thomson Park.

Manager George Shields should have a full-strength pool, although there is a slight doubt over the fitness of Dougie Cameron.

Violet are another side who will benefit from last week’s postponement.

Keeper Gary Thain would have missed last week’s tie against Glenafton due to work commitments but will be available tomorrow.

They will, however, be without Barry Wilson, Ben Finnie and Aaron Kane.

Broughty Athletic have signed goalkeeper Josh Allardyce on loan from Carnoustie.