The Warriors play at Ochilview for the first time in almost a month as we welcome Forfar Athletic to FK5.
Both teams come into the match with 2 wins and a draw in their last 3 matches.
Stenhousemuir performed arguably their best 45 minutes under Stephen Swift in the previous meeting between the two sides. A double by Adam Corbett and Ross Forbes had The Warriors cruising by half time on the Boxing Day fixture. Forfar came back in the 2nd half, but Stenhousemuir held firm to claim all 3 points.
Jordan Tapping returns to the squad after his suspension and Ross Lyon is also back in contention after picking up an injury in training.
Mikey Anderson was taken off at half time against Stranraer after taking a nasty head knock in the first half. He was struggling with his vision at half time. He visited the opticians through the week, and was able to fully train with the team.
As always, Warriors TV spoke with Stephen Swift as he prepares his squad for this weekend’s match.
Forfar are a team that we’ve yet to fall to this season, how have you prepared for this game to keep that run going?
I think with the way that we’ve been setting out over the last few weeks, where we’ve been on a decent run – that’s 3 unbeaten, we just try to implement as much as that as we can, and hopefully give the boys enough belief and conviction in their play that we can get a good result and a good win.
How has the weather impacted your preparations for the game?
Yesterday was touch and go whether or not we trained. But, the kitman Oscar was out on his tractor clearing as much snow as he could and made it playable[ish]! It wasn’t totally fine and there was a bit of snow on the pitch. But we managed to walk through a few things such as set plays and where we expect Forfar to focus, so it was always worthwhile coming in. We also do video analysis on a Thursday, so it’s always a good session and the boys showed a good attitude on the snow. So not ideal preparations, but we feel that we’re as best prepared as we can get.
Our fans are right behind you and the boys as we move into the business end of the Season, what message do you have to those attending?
Last week at Stranraer, we went over and thanked them for travelling. 99% of the fans have been absolutely brilliant, but there’s maybe been a few that’s been against us and maybe aren’t as supportive but that’s been the extreme minority. I’ve been really impressed with the fans getting behind us, even when things haven’t been going well, they’ve said that they believe in us, the coaching staff and the players and they see the effort that goes into every match. So to those fans I’d say, keep up the support because it’s been absolutely terrific. No only in the last few weeks, but all season and it’s up to us to turn the 99% into 100%.
MATCHDAY INFORMATION
Kick-off: 3pm
Match Entry: Both home and away fans can enter via pay at the gate [cash] or you can purchase your ticket in advance by using Fanbase. Adult admission costing £14, concessions £9 and under 16’s just £5.
Live Stream: If you can’t make the match, Warriors TV has you covered with PPV commentary from Cameron McIntyre. PPV is available for just £10 here.
Getting Here: Click here for details of how to get to Ochilview by car or train.
Season Card Holders: Season Tickets are valid for the match, please check the turnstiles for the ticket number.
The Pie Hut: Food and drinks will be available to be purchased once again from the Pie Hut.
The Wee Bar: The Wee Bar is open from 12pm with all fans welcome.
Face Coverings: Face coverings are not mandatory inside the ground but fans are encouraged to continue to wear these. Masks should be worn when moving around the ground.
Covid Secure: Please ensure that you are following all safety guidance when visiting the ground. If you’re feeling unwell or are showing symptoms, please do not attend. We also recommend that you take a Lateral Flow Test before attending any crowded places.
Matchday Programme: The matchday programme is available via donation on entry to the ground.
