Heriot-Watt boss: This is a six-pointer

Heriot-Watt Uni are aiming to make an immediate return to the Central Taxis Premier Division after being relegated last season and head coach Michael Renwick views tomorrow’s encounter with leaders Preston Athletic as a game they have to win.

Preston lead the table with 35 points from their 15 games while the students have played 14 and have 29 points.

“We are definitely looking to close the gap on Preston,” said Renwick. “We know it will be difficult because Preston are top on merit but this is truly a six-pointer in which a win for us would make the table look much better.

“We are in very good form despite losing 2-1 to Stirling University in midweek in the British Universities’ Championship when we conceded a scrappy goal in stoppage time. The boys know they are in contention for promotion and we want to capitalise by picking up three points. However, we do appreciate that, in this First Division, no team can be too confident going into any game. Whatever happens tomorrow, there is still a long way to go.”

Renwick welcomes back Simon Ferrie, Jamie Brown, Andy Forbes, Ewan Watson and Ronnie Napier.

Meanwhile, Preston Athletic manager Stevie Myatt, said: “This is a much more important match for Heriot-Watt than for us. It is a ‘must-win’ for them but not so for ourselves although every game is important in the run-in for the title. What we must do is defend better.”

Preston keeper Ross Gilpin is rated as very doubtful while Kevin Cairnie is injured. Greg McColl and Craig Scott will be given late fitness tests.