Ayr vs Forfar preview - Ayr duo missing for key encounter

Posted Wednesday, March 23, 2011 by PA

Ayr head into their clash with Forfar desperate to make it four wins in a row.

However, their hopes of securing a victory that would reduce leaders Livingston's lead at the summit of the Scottish Second Division are hampered by Bobby Donnelly and Dean Keenan being sidelined.

Given they have a further two games in hand over the Lions and are set to tackle them twice before the end of the season, the Honest Men are very much in the title race.

Manager Brian Reid said: "In our last two games, we have not played well but have won and at this stage of the season, you have to accept that.

"Forfar will be looking to bounce back after losing on Saturday so we need to be ready for that."

Forfar welcome back Jamie Bishop for the trip.

The defender missed Saturday's 4-0 loss to Livingston as he was suspended but returns as the Loons look to consolidate fourth place.

Full-back Stephen Tulloch remains sidelined through injury, while Iain Campbell and Martyn Fotheringham face late fitness tests.

Manager Ian Campbell has urged his side to bounce back from the weekend's heavy defeat.

"Saturday was not like us at all as we gave away goals very cheaply," he said. "Credit to Livingston for taking their chances but we let ourselves down.

"Ayr will be coming out highly motivated so our players will be lifted by the challenge of getting full points at Somerset Park."