Lichties deserve a lot more credit, says boss

Arbroath boss Dick Campbell insists his side have not received the credit they deserve this season for making it into the promotion play-offs.

The Red Lichties – who were given a big boost yesterday when Bobby Linn signed a contract extension – play their final game of the regular campaign when they travel to face Queen’s Park at Hampden this afternoon.

The Angus side beat Airdrie at Gayfield last week and the manager is keen for that momentum to continue against the Spiders ahead of the first leg of their Championship play-off semi-final next Wednesday.

However, considering Arbroath only came up from League 2 this season, Campbell believes his squad should have received more recognition for what they have achieved.

He said: “It was another fine win last week against Airdrie.

“It was really comfortable, so much so there was an air of disappointment that we only won 2-0. It is no exaggeration to say it could have been 10 as the boys were so fantastic.

“The important thing is it keeps our momentum going into the play-offs.

“Before that, we finish the regular season against a Queen’s Park side who are fighting for their lives at the bottom of the table but as ever, we are only concentrating on ourselves.”

Campbell added: “Colin Hamilton is suspended, while we will not risk Tam O’Brien who is carrying a slight injury.

“We will be going to Hampden determined to win before facing what is ahead of us in the play-offs next week.

“We have achieved what we set out to do at the start of the season.

“However, I feel that what the team has done has not been fully recognised.

“The boys deserve a huge amount of credit but I can assure you that we are not finished yet and we cannot wait for the play-offs, no matter who we will face.”

Picture: Kris Miller. Bobby Linn has agreed a new deal to remain at Gayfield.