Bollan expects tough challenge from Bairns

Forfar manager Gary Bollan expects Falkirk to try to blow his team aside and secure their place in the knockout stage of the Betfred Cup.

The Loons head to the Falkirk Stadium looking for their first win, while the Bairns are on the brink of qualification after seeing off Stirling Albion and Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

Bollan has told his squad to be ready for a torrid start to the contest.

He said: “I am sure that Falkirk will look to get the job done against us as opposed to waiting until facing Brechin on Saturday. They will come out looking to get ahead early on and settle things down. We have to be ready to put in a really tough shift to keep them out then and throughout the rest of the match.

“We are massive underdogs to do anything – however, we will give it a go.”

Saturday’s 3-1 defeat by Stirling ended Forfar’s interest in the next round – however, they still have plenty to play for said Bollan.

“Our performance level in the first half on Saturday was not what it should have been. It cost us two goals however the second half was better,” he said.

“We were creating chances in the second 45 minutes and that gives us something to build on for the Falkirk game.”

Bollan will make changes, however his options are limited.

He explained: “We are still actively pursuing players as we are three or four short. I will make changes for this game and give some players some much-needed game time – however, I do not have the number of options that I would like. Whatever team I put out I am looking for a top performance in this one.”

Goalkeeper Grant Adam remains out with illness and he is joined on the side-lines by the injured Michael Kennedy and Murray Mackintosh.

Gary Bollan: “massive underdogs”.