Peterhead travel to Falkirk this afternoon with both clubs looking for their first League 1 win of the season.
Despite coming from two goals down to grab a point at Clyde last weekend Blue Toon manager Jim McInally is looking for improvements in his side as he explained: “Of course it was good to show that despite the injuries and suspensions that have dogged our season so far, there is a good spirit in the team, but we have to lift our performance levels.”
The Balmoor boss is hoping that the return of Andrew McDonald from suspension, along with the signing of Robbie Scullion and the knowledge that two loan signings are expected within days will ensure that things start to move in the right direction as he explained: “We need to get bodies in as so far this season there has been no competition for a jersey. When I was playing, I always played better when I thought that someone would take my place if I was not doing well, and I do not things have changed that much.”
“We need to get bodies in to put that pressure onto the starting XI and the return of Andrew McDonald is an example of that, as is the permanent recruitment of Robbie.”
“Andrew McCarthy will be back training soon and I took in a game this week between a Scottish club and players from England who could be available. I identified two boys who could come and do a job for us and things are happening on that front. If they are not involved today then they will be next week.”
“We are beginning to get the quantity and quality of player we have been after and that will help us improve.” As for facing the Bairns Jim said: “Falkirk will have been hurt by losing 4-0 to Airdrie last weekend. That will make them very dangerous opponents and I expect them to start the game in a very fast manner.”
“John McGlynn is a good manager and will set his team up to play good football. We are prepared for that and will look to frustrate it but I want us to be positive as well.”
“I have also asked the players to be more assertive than we have been in games so far this season. I want us to be braver on the ball and be more confident to hold onto it. If we can do all that then it is another step forward.”
Team news – Andrew McDonald returns from a two-game league ban that was picked up last season and the travelling party will be boosted by two if two loan signings are registered in time. Other signings of players from England and Europe remain held up in ‘red tape’ that the club is working on resolving. Jason Brown is not ready to return after a head knock sustained last month with Andrew McCarthy, Hamish Ritchie and Russell McLean remaining on the side-lines due to injury.
Attending the game – https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2022/08/11/match-day-guide-falkirk-v-peterhead/
