Stiff test for title credentials of Ferguson’s Kelty

Having got off to a winning start last week in the Lowland League, boss Barry Ferguson will be looking to keep Kelty Hearts in pole position when they host Spartans.

Last week’s 2-0 win over Gala Fairydean on his debut in the dugout extended their unbeaten league run to eight games.

But he faces a sterner test against a Lothian side who are third, only four points off the pace with the same number of games played.

In Conference A of the East of Scotland League, Hill of Beath head for Leith looking to protect their 100% record and keep the pressure on leaders Penicuik who also boast an unblemished record having played a game more.

Haws are without Kevin Connors and Greg Smith for the clash with the sixth-placed hosts.

Oakley United travel to Tweedmouth Rangers with a new man at the helm.

Manager Richard Fox was relieved of his duties last week and Stewart Kenny appointed .

He was previously in charge of Tullibody Amateurs but had junior experience with Bo’ness and Sauchie.

However, with seven on the injury list, he doesn’t have his troubles to seek for his first match in charge and he plans to bring in four trialists to supplement the diminished squad.

In Conference B Dundonald Bluebell will be looking to maintain their challenge to leaders Bonnyrigg Rose when they entertain Dunipace.

Other than centre-half Sean O’Neill who is injured, Bluebell have everyone else available.

Having posted three straight wins, Crossgates will go into their home game with Tynecastle with confidence.

The Fifers are two points better off than their visitors who have played a game more.

With only one win under their belt, thirdbottom Burntisland Shipyard will harbour hopes of getting a second when Haddington check in at Recreation Park.

Disappointed at being held by second-bottom Edinburgh United in Conference C last week, Jeanfield Swifts travel to meet Ormiston.

Boss Ross Gunnion, whose side is expected to be on the usual lines, will be looking to return with the points from the clash with the bottom side.

St Andrews United will be hoping to end a run of four games without a win when they entertain Blackburn United.

The returning Lee Wilson and Jack Blainey will bolster their squad.

Victories in their last two games have hoisted Inverkeithing Hillfield Swifts out of the bottom two places and they’ll be hoping for a hat-trick of wins when at home to Stirling University.