Match Preview
Despite qualification out of the Group Stages of the Premier Sports Cup looking a very long shot Peterhead manager Jim McInally reckons that today’s game against visitors Cove Rangers is a crucial one as it will give the Blue Toon an idea of where they are in preparation for the League 1 campaign.
Jim said: “We have to use our next two games to get ready for our league campaign. It does not look like we will progress after starting the Cup against two full time sides however this game and the next one against Stirling Albion will not be friendlies. There is a lot of stake and I will pick a side to reflect that.”
“Cove are probably out of the competition as well. They are playing catch-up after Covid issues hit their pre-season plans. They are looking to taste victory for the first time ad so are we, and this game always has an edge due to the local nature of the fixture so it will be fiercely competitive despite not much apparently being at take.”
“Cove are rated by many as the favourites for the league so the 90 minutes will give us a gauge of where we are in terms of being close to them. They have built another strong squad including going as far up as Dingwall to bring in Iain Vigurs and Ross Draper from Ross County.”
“Last season we ran them close at Balmoor in the league but we then had a bit of a farcical game at their place when we went down to nine men.”
Jim added: “We did okay against Hearts but nothing more and then were disappointing in the first half against Inverness Caledonian Thistle in midweek. However our second half performance against them gives us plenty to build on.”
Team News
Midfielder Andrew McCarthy is again ruled out due to a hamstring problem however everyone else is available to the manager.
TICKET INFORMATION
Due to social distancing restrictions Balmoor Stadium will continue to operate to a restricted capacity of 246 seated fans only for this fixture.
Peterhead FC Season tickets and Executive Club tickets will be valid on the day. Cove Rangers allocation of tickets have also now sold out. However, the fixture will be streamed live on the Peterhead FC automated camera system on a ppv basis which can be accessed on the following link
Both clubs urge fans without tickets NOT to travel to Balmoor Stadium.
You can watch the game here
https://peterheadfc.univtec.com/home
Match Programme
The official match day programme is available to read online now. 60 Pages and absolutely free.
