Royally big game this Saturday in Carluke Rovers' bid to go up

Central Division 2 pacesetters Albert, for so many years seen as the whipping boys of the division, are currently looking down on the rest ahead of sixth placed Rovers’ visit.

Rovers match reporter Craig Martin said: “It is a huge game.

“Albert’s confidence will be up. It’s been a struggle for Albert in recent years but they have a strong squad these days. Although we beat them twice last season, it wasn’t easy.

“Winning is breeding confidence for them.”

Rovers go into the Albert match after a blank weekend last Saturday, when their scheduled game at Johnstone Burgh was called off less than an hour before the scheduled 2pm kick-off time.

The entire Rovers party of management, players and supporters arrived at Keanie Park to soon discover that the park was unplayable after a significant burst of heavy rain within a short period.

The pitch had earlier passed a morning inspection.

Rovers will be without the injured Mark Weir, with newly signed goalkeeper Gareth Hallford pushing for a start.

Rovers number one David Thomson has done nothing wrong this season, but Hallford will provide him with stiff competition.

Craig added: “After missing out on promotion by just a point last year, there is an added determination from us to go up this time and I think we have the squad to do it.”