Gowfers chasing hat-trick

Consecutive victories have lifted Carnoustie five points clear of the relegation zone and with games in hand on the bottom three, which includes today’s visitors Fauldhouse, the Gowfers will fancy their chances of making it a hat-trick, writes Peter Rundo.

The same squad for those two games is on duty again to face the league’s bottom markers.

Second-from-bottom Tayport’s problems continue to mount after losing 4-0 at home to Carnoustie on Wednesday.

Adding to their woes, player/ manager John Ovenstone was sent off and even before that misdemeanour, he was due to start a two-match ban, so misses the trip to Kelty Hearts.

Suffering five straight defeats is hardly the ideal preparation to face the reigning champions who still harbour outside hopes of retaining their title.

St Andrews United left Whitton Park aggrieved at coming away empty-handed after an excellent second half performance.

So manager Ian Barrett is looking for his side to carry that into the visit of Sauchie in the battle to hoist themselves out of the play-off place.

Sitting 10th, their visitors appear not to have relegation worries, but although eight points better off than their hosts, Barrett’s men have three games in hand.

The Saints gaffer anticipates having a full squad.

Seventh-placed Hill of Beath head to Newtongrange with whom they are level on points.

Having won the Keirs Park meeting 2-0, Bobby Wilson’s side are hoping to complete the double over Star and chalk up a third successive league win.

Haws are unlikely to show much change from the side that were 3-1 winners over Camelon last week.

Boosted by their midweek win over St Andrews, Broughty Athletic visit Penicuik Athletic seeking revenge for their 3-0 defeat on the opening day of the season.