Manchester City title drama inspires Albion Rovers

ALBION Rovers manager Paul Martin is using Manchester City’s dramatic title win last weekend as inspiration for his side’s second leg Second Division play-off match against Stranraer.

The Coatbridge side go into the game 2-0 behind and Martin said: “Man City were dead and buried going into injury time last Sunday against Queens Park Rangers as they needed two goals. They scored twice in 90 seconds to turn things around so we can go in against Stranraer knowing that things can be turned around very quickly.”

Martin added: “We have enjoyed being in the Second Division and do not want to give up our position lightly.”

Defender Alan Reid is set to return after injury and the Rovers will go looking for goals without striker John Gemmell, who is banned with Martin likely to bring in either Danny Mackay or Jack Werndly to start.

Stranraer travelled to Queen’s Park last Saturday at the semi-final stage 3-1 ahead and they had their place in the final booked 20 minutes into the game when Martin Grehan put them two up.

Stranraer assistant manager Stephen Aitken said: “We will approach this game in the same manner we went into the semi-final. The experience we gained in not only guarding a two-goal advantage but adding to it should prove beneficial.”

Every member of the Stranraer squad is fit and available with the exception of midfielder Ryan Borris, who will undergo a fitness test ahead of kick-off.