Frontman Hawke boosts Montrose

Montrose manager Stewart Petrie has signed striker Lewis Hawke until the end of the season.

Hawke has joined the Gable Endies from Stirling Albion for an undisclosed fee.

The deal is short term but not a loan and can be extended if it suits both parties.

The 26-year-old was a regular in a Queens Park side last season, netting 10 times in 30 appearances, but his move to Forthbank in the summer has not worked out as planned.

Son of former Morton striker Warren, Kirkcaldy-born Hawke started his career in the youth systems at Everton and Morton.

On graduating, the Kirkcaldy-born frontman moved down under, signing for Bulleen Lions in Australia, returning to Scotland 18 months later where he signed for The Spiders.

Petrie said: “I am delighted to be bringing Lewis to the club.

“We have had an eye on him for a while and given our recent activity in the transfer market, the timing was just right.

“At over six foot, he will really strengthen our options up top, bringing a good aerial presence and dangerous goal threat.”

Hawke comes into contention for today’s home League One game against Peterhead.

The Angus men are looking to get back to winning ways after losing 4-3 in last weekend’s thriller against league leaders Raith Rovers at Stark’s Park.

The last time Peterhead visited Links Park was in September when they lost 4-3 and Blue Toon defender Jason Brown doesn’t want a repeat.

The 23-year-old said: “It was good to get back into the team against Dumbarton and I felt we defended really well and got a good clean sheet.

“Whatever team the manager picks today we’ll be looking to continue with another good defensive performance. I’d be happy to leave Links Park with a clean sheet because that’s what we try to build our team around.

“Everyone knows that if you can keep a clean sheet then you have a good chance of winning.”

Peterhead are without striker Ben Armour due to injury and midfielder Simon Ferry is still suspended, but defender David Ferguson is back.

SNS. Former Dundee United and St Johnstone striker Brian Graham scores for Partick Thistle in their Ladbrokes Championship clash with Ayr United at Firhill last night. Alan Forrest, a reported target for Dundee, equalised from the penalty spot for the Honest Men. The game finished 1-1.