Rival Willie’s a watched man
’Ton boss expects McLaren to cause upset
Neilston boss Martin Campbell insists his defence will have to be on their toes to keep Willie McLaren at bay.
The former St Johnstone, Airdrie and Hamilton Accies winger will line up for today’s opponents Benburb, as the Farmer’s Boys travel to New Tinto Park.
It is a second versus third match-up in the Central District First Division, with the two sides vying for promotion back to the Super Leagues.
And Campbell admits his players will have to be at the top of their game to come away with the three points.
The Brig O’Lea side are striving to follow up their victory over Port Glasgow Juniors in their last outing.
However, a few bumps and bruises has left the side feeling worse for wear in the run up to today’s match.
Campbell told Express Sport: “Today is massive for us.
“We might have three games in hand over Benburb, but it would be nice to have the points on the board.
“Benburb have been going well. They had a couple of tricky seasons, but they appear to have turned it around and are building a good squad down there.
“Willie McLaren will always be a threat at this level and he has shown that time and time again.
“He was a good player at senior level and he will no doubt cause us problems if we don’t keep our guards up.
“He is a tricky player, but has the grit to win a battle as well.
“They also have former Hearts and Motherwell keeper Lee Hollis, so having guys of with that sort of experience in their squad can only help them.”
Neilston head into the clash somewhat resembling the walking wounded.
Craig Patterson remains the only long- term casualty, having dislocated his knee.
However, last Saturday’s battle with Port Glasgow has seen the number of knocks mount up in the run up to the game.
Kieran McDade remains a doubt, but Campbell is confident the rest of his squad should make the clash — even Paul Stewart, who was on the receiving end of a headbutt.
Campbell added: “I never saw the incident myself but the boys were adamant that Paul was headbutted, so I have to take their word for it.
“He’s had to have five stitches in his head.
“We told him to go to hospital at the time, but he raced to work straight after the game. His work took one look at him and sent him anyway.
“It isn’t something you like to see in football, but, credit to my boys, they kept their cool and got on with it.”