Match Report

Match Preview written by Scott Gallacher

Stenhousemuir return to Ochilview Park this weekend as they welcome Cove Rangers in William Hill League One action, with a 3pm kick-off.

The Warriors make the return home following a long trip to the Highlands last weekend, where they were held to a 1-1 draw by league leaders Inverness Caledonian Thistle at the Sarens PSG Stadium in a top-of-the-table clash.

Gary Naysmith’s side made a strong start in Inverness and took the lead inside six minutes.

Olly Whyte reacted sharply after a failed clearance from the Caley backline, bringing the ball down well before driving into the box and finishing confidently past Ross Munro.

The hosts responded through Alfie Bavidge on 19 minutes, the striker stretching to meet a cross and guide the ball beyond Darren Jamieson to ensure the points were shared.

Despite late pressure and a man advantage in the closing stages, Stenhousemuir were unable to find a decisive second goal, but there was plenty of encouragement to take from a disciplined and resilient performance on the road.

As it stands, the Warriors remain five points behind Inverness at the summit of League One, firmly in the hunt as the season continues to gather momentum.

Cove Rangers make the trip to Ochilview following their own 1-1 draw with Kelty Hearts last weekend.

Kelty took the lead before the break through Jack Brydon, who converted at the back post from a corner to put the visitors ahead at half-time.

Cove found a late response, however, with Cooper Masson producing a 25-yard strike in the 83rd minute to rescue a point for the Balmoral side.

Cove currently sit 8th in the League One table, three points ahead of Hamilton Academical, who occupy the relegation play-off spot.

With the bottom end of the table tightly contested, Paul Hartley’s men will arrive determined to pick up valuable points.

The last meeting between the sides came in October at Balmoral Stadium.

On that occasion, Stenhousemuir secured all three points thanks to Matty Aitken’s 48th-minute penalty, calmly dispatched to give the Warriors a hard-earned victory on the road.

With five points separating first and second at the top of the table, Saturday presents another opportunity for Stenhousemuir to apply pressure and continue their push in what is shaping up to be a compelling League One campaign.