Coughlin`s clan short on numbers

Posted Saturday, November 13, 2010 by PA

Michael McGowen could be included in the Alloa squad for the visit of Stenhousemuir.

The former Clyde and Queen of the South defender could replace trialist Billy Gibson, who is struggling with a knock.

Darren Smith is also a doubt and midfielder Brown Ferguson remains out, but striker Stuart Noble is fully fit again.

Manager Allan Maitland is looking for a huge improvement from his side following their 4-1 defeat at East Fife.

He said: "We were beaten by the better team last weekend and we need to address that this week. John Coughlin's side will make things very difficult for us and we have to defend a lot better than we have been doing."M

Stenhousemuir travel with an injury-hit squad.

Goalkeeper Chris McCluskey (hamstring) remains out along with strikers Scott Dalziel and Simon Lynch, while midfielder Ross Clark (calf) is also on the sidelines.

Meanwhile, the best fit-again striker Alex Williams can hope for is a place on the bench after nearly three months out.

Despite their problems Warriors boss John Coughlin is in upbeat mood.

He said: "We went to Alloa at this time last year and won 4-1 so we know we can do it. We battled hard to get a point against Brechin last weekend and we will need the same approach to things this time."