Petrie’s new boys will be needed for Stirling trip

Montrose boss Stewart Petrie has thanked the club’s board for their backing last month, which allowed him to bring five new players to the club.

The Links Park manager added Matty Allan, Liam Callaghan, Matty Smith, Dylan Thomas and Kerr Hay to his squad.

Petrie said they will be needed when Montrose travel to Stirling this afternoon.

His side are still buoyed by last week’s 2-1 win at home against Berwick Rangers, a game watched by more than 1,200 fans thanks to a ticket initiative by the club.

The manager said: “It was a good win last week, and credit to the lads for coming back from 1-0 down.

“We changed things around during the game and it worked for us. We held on comfortably and defended well as a team unit, not just the back four.

“Every game is so tight just now and there are fine lines between winning and losing.

“It was also great to get the win for all the fans who turned up to watch the game. Even during the warm-up it was a lift for the lads to see the fans streaming through the gate.

“It was a fantastic response to the initiative from the club. It was great to see the stand full, and hopefully we can entice a few more back.

“We are determined to play attacking, entertaining football at home to attract more fans.

“However, we are on our travels this Saturday to Stirling and, like everyone else in this league, they have a lot to play for. Dave Mackay has brought a few in, and we are under no illusions how difficult the game will be.

“We have also added five during January and the board has given me fantastic backing.

“The whole squad will be needed at Stirling as we are missing Paul Watson and Michael Bolochoweckyj through injury, while Gary Fraser is still suspended.

“But it is a great chance for some of the younger lads.”

Liam Callaghan, one of the five new recruits at Links Park.