Airdrie United vs Dumbarton preview - Plenty for Boyle to ponder

Posted Saturday, August 11, 2012 by PA

Airdrie begin the Irn-Bru First Division season against old Second Division foes Dumbarton with several injury and suspension worries.

Midfield pair Nathan Blockley and Sean Lynch are both banned, while Grant Evans and Kieron Stallard will miss out due to knocks, but Jamie Bain is back in contention following a two-game suspension.

Airdrie boss Jimmy Boyle said: "We struggled in the Second Division against Dumbarton and this would be a terrific game to put that right in.

"We are a bit light in terms of midfielders for this game, but whoever comes in has the chance to grab a starting jersey.

"We also know that we need to be better defensively than we were last week against Queen's Park, especially from corners."

Dumbarton will begin their first campaign in the Irn-Bru First Division for 17 years without summer signing Ross Forsyth.

Former St Johnstone, Stirling and Morton player Forsyth is struggling with a groin injury, while Pat Walker is a major doubt due to an ankle problem and on-loan St Mirren winger Mark Lamont has not fully recovered from tonsillitis.

Sons boss Alan Adamson said: "It's a very exciting day for us against a side we know well from last season in the Second Division.

"On paper we've strengthened our squad for the league campaign and so have Airdrie, so it really is a new contest.

"It would be fantastic for the club if we were able to get this season off to a flying start with a win."