U-21 cap in surprise move to Stranraer

FIRST division newcomers Stranraer swooped yesterday to sign under-21 international defender Andy Dowie in a surprise move.

As Stranraer prepared for their Bell's Cup first round tie with Arbroath, manager Neil Watt captured Dowie, who was released by Partick Thistle.

Stranraer hope Alan Jenkins will be fit to face Arbroath, who yesterday captured teenage striker Andy Reilly.

Clyde manager Graham Roberts has signed striker Alex Williams who had been released by Morton. He is included for the trip to Brechin.

Forfar travel to St Mirren having signed Colin Meldrum as manager Brian Fairlie solved a goalkeeping crisis. The Buddies include striker Billy Mehmet.

Raith Rovers manager Gordon Dalziel has added three players ahead of the visit of Elgin City, bringing striker Brian Fairbairn on loan from East Fife, in exchange for John Martin. The Bayview men include Martin against Stenhousemuir, who are without five including Paul McGrillen and Paul Murphy.

East Stirling manager Dennis Newall is aiming to sign three new players this morning before tomorrow's trip to Dundee, who are without Stephen McNally.

Stirling Albion manager Allan Moore was in talks yesterday, ahead of the visit to Somerset Park, with former Ayr midfielder Paddy Connolly.

Partick Thistle manager Dick Campbell was last night trying to bring in a central defender on loan from an SPL club. Derek Fleming and Steve Nicholas are struggling. Cowdenbeath manager David Baikie signed former Elgin player John Allison and former Alloa winger Dougie Hill and both are in the squad.

Montrose signed 19-year-old central defender Jamie McKenzie on loan from Hibs before heading north to meet Ross County.

Morton are expecting a big crowd for their clash with Gretna, but Alex Walker is doubtful with a bruised foot.

Gretna manager Rowan Alexander could be without Ryan Baldacchino.

St Johnstone are without the injured Kevin Fotheringham and suspended Simon Mensing, but new signings Goran Stanic and Darren Sheridan are included for the visit of Alloa, who are without the suspended Ross Hamilton.

Peterhead include a number of new signings against Berwick, who have signed former Dunfermline striker Chris McGroarty.

Queen of the South are at full strength squad for the visit of Albion Rovers.

Queen's Park are without Alan Trouten against Hamilton, who will be without new signings Ian Harty, Alex Neill and John Robertson.