Raith Rovers vs Airdrie United preview - Rovers hopeful over Mensing deal

Posted Saturday, September 15, 2012 by PA

Raith Rovers hope to tie up a deal with former Hamilton Accies player Simon Mensing before they host Airdrie.

The club have been in discussions with the 30-year-old midfielder since the beginning of the week and could agree a deal in time.

Goalkeeper David McGurn returns to action after suspension kept him out of last weekend's 3-0 defeat from Partick Thistle in the Ramsdens Cup with Allan Fleming, who kept goal at Firhill, returning to Junior side Kelty Hearts.

Defender Dougie Hill is also free of a ban and returns to the Raith ranks with player/manager Grant Murray anticipating a tough encounter with the Diamonds.

Murray said: "Airdrie is always a really hard game and this one will be all the harder as they will be looking to bounce back after losing to Cowdenbeath."

Airdrie United will be without suspended full back Marc Warren for the trip.

However, Cameron MacDonald and David Lilley both return after missing out against Cowdenbeath a fortnight ago due to illness.

There was further good news for manager Jimmy Boyle with Grant Evans available for the first time this season and Ryan Donnelly along with both Jack and John Boyle passing fitness tests although Scott Sally remains sidelined.

Boyle said: "Our last performance was a poor one but we will look to put it right in this game. We will need to play well as they have bodies back to bolster them after losing to Partick Thistle last weekend.

"Stark's Park is a tough venue but we are looking forward to it."