The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Bell ready to ring change as Buckie eye scalp double
Victoria Park: Jags in safe hands as they go for another bite at Brechin
Goalkeeper Daniel Bell could return to action for Highland League Buckie Thistle in this afternoon’s Scottish Cup third-round tie against Championship side Brechin City at Buckie’s Victoria Park.
Ross Salmon has deputised between the sticks for the last two games but Bell could reclaim the number one jersey after recovering from a shoulder injury.
Buckie have already upset the Hedgemen this season. Bell was in goal when the Jags beat Brechin 2-1 at Victoria Park in the IRN-BRU Cup.
But Buckie midfielder Kevin Fraser, who on that occasion came off the bench and scored twice in three minutes to overturn a 1-0 deficit, is one of five Jags players who are definitely out today.
Bell said: “I’m fit enough to make my comeback if selected but that will be up to the manager.
“Obviously I would like to play in such a big match. I trained this week and my shoulder felt fine. We know it is going to be a tough game against a Championship side.
“But with the Scottish Premiership teams entering at the next round, it is also a great opportunity.
“I’m sure everyone at the club will be desperate to get a result and get into the hat for the next round.”
Bell believes his side can take confidence from their victory against the Angus team back in August.
He added: “Kevin Fraser came off the bench that night and within a few minutes he changed the game.
“Obviously Brechin City are struggling at the bottom of the Championship.
“But this cup tie will give them a break from the league campaign so I’m sure it will be very difficult for us.”
Buckie are still without attackers Sam Urquhart and Chris Angus, while striker Steven Ross faces a fitness test after missing last week’s game at Clachnacuddin with a stomach bug.
Hamish Munro should be fit enough to make the bench and fellow defender Craig Dorrat is expected to return to the squad.
Meanwhile, Highland League leaders Cove Rangers are hopeful of causing an upset against Airdrieonians at the Excelsior Stadium.
Cove manager John Sheran said: “Airdrie play on an artificial surface but that shouldn’t be a problem as we train on one and we have already played on a number of artificial pitches this season so that won’t be a problem for the boys.
“We will start as underdogs as they are a League 1 team who seem to have turned their season around a wee bit in the last couple of weeks,
“But it is a great chance for the players to test themselves against a team which is two divisions above us.”
Cove full back Harry Milne is a doubt with a foot injury.
Central defender Darryn Kelly is unavailable and winger Daniel Park is suspended.
“Premiership teams are entering in next round so this is a great chance”