The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Rovers can open up gap at top over Ayr
Raith Rovers have the chance to extend their lead over Ayr United at the top of League One to four points when they visit Stranraer today.
Daylight between themselves and Ayr United, who are in Scottish Cup action, would not be too significant, though, according to manager Barry Smith.
He said: “All this game gives us is a chance to build on a good display and point against Ayr last weekend. It would be terrific to win but I will not be looking into things any more than that.
“No one here will be getting carried away at turning one of our two games in hand into three points if that happens as there is still a long way to go.
“Stranraer have had an unsettling start to 2018 with a few players leaving – however, they had a very good win over Airdrie last weekend.
“They still have a core of experienced players and other boys who have been given a chance at first team level and want to take it.”
Smith added: “We have to be mentally right for the challenge that lies ahead. It is a long journey on what will be a horrible day weather-wise but we cannot let any of that affect us.
“We have to show that same spirit that saw us bounce back from going behind to Ayr and coming back to get a point. I believe that there is character in our squad and that will be needed.”
Willis Furtado is in line for his debut after joining from Airdrie, with Smith saying: “I am delighted to get Willis on board as he is a player that has impressed me in the past couple of seasons.”
Kevin Cuthbert, Kyle Benedictus and Kevin McHattie all remain out injured for Raith.