Campbells a family at war – for 90 minutes

Montrose assistant manager Ross Campbell admits there are “bragging rights” at stake when his side host rivals Arbroath tomorrow.

The Gable Endies welcome the Lichties to Links Park for Terry Masson’s testimonial game.

While Campbell knows the fixture will be played in good spirits and in honour of the Montrose midfielder, he has his own reasons for wanting the win.

That’s because he, his brother and first team coach Iain are desperate to get one over on their father, Arbroath boss Dick Campbell.

After last weekend’s 2-1 win over Brechin, the Lichties boss said: “It’s important to beat your local rivals.

“We’ve got another one next Saturday.

“I’ve also got to beat my two sons. I can’t let them beat me.”

That sentiment is echoed by the Montrose No 2. However, you have to go back to March 2017 when they last beat their rivals.

The Gable Endies came out 1-0 winners thanks to a late Gary Fraser strike in League Two.

That is also the only time Ross has beaten his dad as Arbroath manager.

“There are bragging rights at stake,” Ross said.

“I’m so proud of my dad. Arbroath have done a great job.

“They’re our fierce rivals but they have been brilliant to deal with for setting up Terry’s game.

“In fairness, since our last win over them they have been pretty good.

“We’ve always been trying to hang on to their coat-tails but they have been outstanding. It would be great to get one over on them.”

Meanwhile, Campbell has praised team-mate Masson for his dedication to Montrose over his 12 years.

The no-nonsense midfielder will feature in his testimonial game after a two-year delay due to Covid.

Campbell joked that Masson may not be popular amongst opposition players but is certainly a favourite at Links Park – and he isn’t shy on making his voice heard.

“Terry is not well liked from an opposition basis but he’s loved by everyone at Montrose,” he said.

“That’s one of the best compliments. He’s so tough as an opponent.

“He puts everything into a game. He can also be a tough person to deal with.

“Terry Masson could get dropped for one game all season but he’d still chap your door down and tell you why he’s not happy.”