Allan is in frame for Wick return after 15-month lay-off

Wick striker Davie Allan is set to make his first appearance for 15 months when Academy face Fort William at Harmsworth today.

Allan has been sidelined since suffering a knee injury in a 3-1 victory at Inverurie Locos on January 3, 2017.

Wick manager Tom McKenna said: “I’ve heard so much about Davie but due to his injury I have yet to see him on the pitch. If the hype is true, along with what I’ve witnessed in training, Davie’s return will be a massive boost.”

Wick will miss the injured Marc MacGregor and Jack Henry, while midfielders Sam Mackay and Gordon McNab have work commitments. In addition, there are doubts over the Steven brothers, Grant and Michael, as well as central defender Brandon Sinclair.

Keith and Huntly face each other in a local derby at Kynoch Park.

Maroons’ manager Dean Donaldson feels there will be little to choose between the two sides. He said: “Everybody likes a derby game but only when they win it. Both Huntly and ourselves have been struggling a little bit in recent times but I still think this has the makings of an exciting game.

“It could all come down to whichever side wants it the most on the day and who can take their chances when they come along.

“After all the rain we’ve had recently we know to expect a heavy pitch. Both sides have had their defensive frailties recently so whichever defence copes better could be in the ascendancy but I definitely think there will be goals,

“We will be without midfielder Scott Begg, who has a groin injury, and Formartine United have recalled Kieran Lawrence.”

Huntly looking to bounce back after Wednesday’s 6-0 home thrashing at Forres Mechanics, welcome back striker Gary McGowan but defender Zander Jack (hamstring), striker Martin Charlesworth (calf ) and winger Paul Napier (back) are all out.

Forres will be without forward Alan Pollock for their meeting with Clachnacuddin at Mosset Park. l The game at Mackessack Park between Rothes and Brora Rangers was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

“Everybody likes a derby but only when they win it”