Dumbarton vs Airdrie United preview - Nicholl in fitness battle

Posted Saturday, October 22, 2011 by PA

Dumbarton midfielder Kevin Nicholl faces a late fitness test ahead of the home clash with Airdrie United.

But striker David Winters returns to contention following a two-game ban to increase manager Alan Adamson's options as his side look to register back-to-back wins for the first time this season.

Winters said: "If we had lost on Tuesday we would have gone bottom, but there's a chance we could go into the top half if we win this one.

"It's a great league and now that we've moved away from the foot we can concentrate on moving up the way."

Airdrie United defenders Kieron Stallard and David Lilley will both miss the game through suspension.

But manager Jimmy Boyle, who also has a host of injury worries as the Diamonds look for their first away win of the season, will include new signing Kevin Green in his squad.

Goalkeeper Paul McKane, Graeme Goodall, Alastair Woodburn, John Boyle and Phil Johnston are ruled out, while Craig Hill is doubtful due to a knee problem.

Boyle said: "I watched Dumbarton in midweek and they attack with great pace and have excellent strikers.

"We are not in the best of shape, but I'm still expecting our players to go out looking for a win."