Third Division preview: Coughlin seeking boost

Published on Friday 2 January 2009 22:23

OCHILVIEW'S landlords and tenants face each other this afternoon, with Stenhousemuir looking to get their title challenge back on track against East Stirlingshire having won just one of their past five games in the league.

Having suffered shock defeats to Forfar and to Berwick Rangers, they are two points ahead of Cowdenbeath, who have two games in hand. John Coughlin's side had to come from behind against their rivals little over a month ago but have lost only one of the last nine meetings between the sides.

The Shire, meanwhile, were brought back down to earth two weeks ago in a 4-1 loss to Cowdenbeath. Having gone nine games unbeaten, Jim McInally's men lost precious ground in the title race and he will need to ensure his side do not fall further behind today.

They do, however, have the best 'home' record in the league; better ironically than the team who own Ochilview. East Stirling fans have seen their side score 16 in their last five matches. Defeat for their side today, however, could mean that the play-offs will be their best chance of promotion this season.

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