Ayr Utd. vs Raith Rovers preview - Campbell sits it out

Posted Saturday, August 27, 2011 by PA

Ayr will be without suspended central defender Martyn Campbell for the home game against Raith.

Rovers are hoping to build on their Scottish Communities Cup success over Inverness Caledonian Thistle in midweek, with manager Brian Reid warning his players to expect a backlash from their Kirkcaldy opponents.

Reid, who will also be without midfielder Alan Trouten (groin), said: "I watched the Raith game against Airdrie and I'm sure their manager and players will have been disappointed at being beaten.

"They will be out to make amends very quickly and we have to ensure that it's not at our expense.

"We played well against Inverness and have the chance to build on that by collecting three points, but it will not be easy."

Raith are hoping midfielder Iain Williamson will return to their starting line-up.

Williamson missed Tuesday night's disappointing Scottish Communities League Cup defeat to Airdrie due to a knee injury, but could return to contention. Skipper Iain Davidson remains sidelined with a medial ligament strain.

Manager John McGlynn is looking for a positive response from his players following their 2-0 cup defeat, saying: "Ayr will be flying high after defeating Inverness and will want to build on that.

"We're going into the game on the back of a disappointment, but we cannot feel sorry for ourselves.

"A win would keep our good start in the league going and that would certainly help us get over a poor display at Airdrie."