Fauldhouse target top spot but new boss Cowan is cool on title talk

FORMER Hearts coach David Cowan takes charge of Fauldhouse for the first time tomorrow - but played down talk of a late title bid despite the fact they can go top of the table by beating Tranent. Having played more matches than the other sides in the hunt, he reckons that planning for a championship challenge next season is a more realistic target.

"I'm pleased to get back in the game again so soon," said Cowan, who left Spartans last month along with No 2, Steph Colquhoun. "I believe there were some well-known names in the frame for the job."

Cowan had been due to take the reins for the first time against Harthill last weekend but that fell to the weather. Now he's hoping the same fate doesn't befall tomorrow's home clash with Tranent, which can see Fauldhouse take advantage of leaders Livingston being in Fife & Lothians Cup action at Hill of Beath.

"We can go top with a win, but we've played more games than the other teams in the title race," he added. "I think next season is going to be more realistic in terms of title challenge and I'll be using the games coming up to see what we need."