Today’s SPFL lower division prospects

Alloa Athletic v Dundee

Both managers have tried to play down the significance of facing their old teams but the fact that Barry Smith and Paul Hartley are in opposing dugouts adds an extra element of intrigue to a fixture of huge importance to both clubs, Alloa seeking the points that would secure their Championship future while Dundee must win to be sure of staying in the title hunt. Stephen Simmons will undergo a fitness test for Alloa while Dundee are without Kyle Benedictus and Steven Doris. Last season No fixture Prediction Away win

Dumbarton v Hamilton Acad

Ian Murray, the home manager, appeared to write off his side’s play-off hopes after last week’s defeat by Queen of the South but Dumbarton won’t be throwing in the towel while it is still mathematically possible to finish in the top four. With a trip to second top Dundee to follow next week, they are clearly going to have a say in the destination and Hamilton know that victory today will keep them in pole position regardless of events elsewhere. Dumbarton’s Garry Fleming is available after suspension as is Hamilton’s Ziggy Gordon but Darian MacKinnon joins Stephen Hendrie on the banned list. James Keatings and Jon Routledge may return after injury. Last season 3-3, 3-1 Prediction Away win

Morton v Falkirk

Relegated Morton put a severe dent in Dundee’s Championship-winning aspirations last week and they could all-but end Falkirk’s hopes with another win today. The Bairns, though, at least know they can take nothing for granted against a team whose players are fighting for their futures. Gary O’Connor returns to Kenny Shiels’ squad but goalkeeper Derek Gaston is an injury doubt. Falkirk, meanwhile, are missing the suspended Jonny Flynn and Will Vaulks. Last season 1-2, 2-0 Prediction Away win

Queen of the South v Livingston

The equation is simple for the Doonhamers as victory will be enough to secure their place in the promotion play-offs. Livingston, though, could represent awkward opponents especially since their manager, John McGlynn, has challenged his players to bounce back from last week’s humbling at Cowdenbeath. Stephen McKenna and Gavin Reilly are injury absentees for Queens but Bob McHugh return. Livingston are still without Simon Mensing, Mike Mampuya and Andy Barrowman. Last season No fixture Prediction Home win

Raith Rovers v Cowdenbeath

There is always plenty at stake in a Fife derby but this one has added spice since Raith know they can consign their near-neighbours to the relegation playoff. Even a draw would not be good enough for Cowdenbeath who must win and hope that Alloa lose. Rovers are without the suspended Dougie Hill while Joe Cardle and Kevin Moon will undergo fitness tests. Sammy Stewart is an injury doubt for the visitors. Last season 2-2, 0-1 Prediction Away win

LEAGUE 1

Arbroath v Dunfermline Athletic

Arbroath gave themselves a lifeline last week and victory today would ensure that the battle to avoid automatic relegation goes to the final week. However, defeat combined with an East Fife win against Brechin would condemn the Gayfield team to the drop. Last season No fixture Prediction Home win

Clyde v Albion Rovers

Clyde can cap a fine season by reaching the promotion play-offs if they win today, while Rovers, having shone in a great Scottish Cup run, are now playing for pride. Clyde go in with a settled side but Rovers are without suspended pair Neil Parry and Barry Russell. Last season No fixture Prediction Draw