Never mind the gap, Grove and Wanderers set for a cracker

The local clash between Dundee Wanderers and Grove Menzieshill seldom disappoints – and this weekend’s encounter should be no different.

The teams are at either end of the Premiership but that does not necessarily lead to a onesided match.

Menzieshill have scarcely been at their best compared with the last couple of seasons while Wanderers are making great efforts to cope with the transition from Division 2 champions to the Premiership.

There are pressures on both teams, Menzieshill to remain close to leaders Grange and Wanderers to move out of the relegation zone.

It would not take much of an improvement for Wanderers to start winning matches but that may have to wait for another day against other opposition.

Perthshire and St Andrews University are both fairly well set in mid-table in Division 2 but neither, indeed no others, are likely to challenge the top two of Inverleith and Dunfermline Carnegie.

The clash of the two Midland clubs may settle bragging rights for the time being, but little else.

Perthshire are the higher scorers, mainly due to their 12-0 win over Aberdeen Grammar, but both defences concede goals at too high a rate.

Monarchs face a difficult challenge in Division 3 against a Highland team which is well organised, sharp in front of goal and so challenging for promotion, as are Monarchs. Home advantage may just count in favour of Monarchs.

Harris will no doubt find it difficult again even with home advantage against Granite City Wanderers, who are also likely to be in the mix at the top of the division.

The Harris youngsters are gaining valuable experience but it may take more time for that to come to fruition.

Meanwhile, the Midland League returns to action having had a three-week break after only two weeks of competition.

The stronger teams in Division 1 today should be Wanderers II, Perthshire II, Wanderers III and St Andrews University II.

The accent is different for the Sunday teams, with development being the name of the game.

Perthshire and Grove Menzieshill have been drawn in the same pool along with Aberdeen Grammar in the Under-18 National Club Cup, to be played at Titwood on Sunday. The cross-over matches and final will be played on November 3.