Violet good test for leaders Carnoustie

CARNOUSTIE will be out to hang on to their lead at the top of the league with a home win over Violet, but the Pansies are on form and could give the Gowfers a run for their money.

Violet had gone three games undefeated, though their chances of making it four was under threat last week when Tayport were leading 2-1 before the match was abandoned.

Unfortunately, the Pansies’ injury list is once again causing concern with Brad Ronan’s serious ruptured ankle sustained against Tayport adding to their worries.

Having won the previous three meetings convincingly, the Gowfers will be hot favourites to pick up three points, although they will be without the injured duo of Ryan Roche and Pat Martin.

Downfield still look the likeliest side to threaten Carnoustie and they head for Beechwood to face a Harp side hoping to bounce back from last weekend’s 6-1 defeat by Carnoustie.

This could be another tough afternoon for Alan McSkimming’s men as they face a side undefeated since last September and, after last week’s thrilling cup win at Broughty, will be confident they can keep the pressure on the league leaders.

North End will be out to improve on their recent record when they meet Lochee United at home.

The Dokens have lost three and drawn one of the last four meetings and, although both sides still have title ambitions, defeat for either would surely end their hopes.

The Dokens are unlikely to show many changes from the side that beat East Craigie last week, while the Bluebells will make a late selection.

After two disappointing cup defeats last week, East Craigie will be looking to get back on track against Forfar United.

Losing to Letham and North End was a bitter blow and co-managers Craig Brown and Sean Wilkie will be hoping they can regain some form with their Scottish Cup semi-final against Rutherglen only three weeks away.

The Shipbuilders will be without Aidan Marshall and Cammy Christie is suspended, but will be boosted by the return of the experienced Stewart McConnachie, Ross McNaughton and Andy McDonald.

United boss Ryan Todd will show little change from the side that drew with Coupar Angus last week, although he will be without the suspended Connor Birse.

Broughty Athletic have a couple of players nursing knocks so they will make a late selection for their visit to Strathmore Park.

On current form, anything other than an away victory would be put down as a major shock.

EYES ON THE BALL: Action from last week’s Quest Engineering Cup game between North End (maroon) and East Craigie. The Dokens won 3-1.