Airdrie United vs Partick Thistle preview - Evans boost for Airdrie

Posted Saturday, April 13, 2013 by PA

Bottom side Airdrie welcome Grant Evans back after a ban as they host table-toppers Partick.

The Diamonds are short on numbers as David Lilley (groin), Nathan Blockley (ankle), Jordan Kirkpatrick (knee), John Boyle (knee) and Paul di Giacomo (hamstring) are out and goalkeeper Kenny Arthur is struggling with illness.

Manager Jimmy Boyle said: "Our performances recently have been disappointing.

"First and foremost I want a good performance against Partick. If we get that I will be a lot happier about things and if we get that and the three points I will be delighted.

"They are on a high but I want us to show what we can do."

Partick were boosted by their 1-0 midweek win over closest challengers Morton.

But defender Aaron Muirhead begins his four-game ban for violent conduct in last Sunday's Ramsdens Cup final defeat by Queen of the South.

The Jags are also missing skipper Paul Paton (knee), Jordan McMillan (illness) and Hugh Murray (foot).

Manager Alan Archibald said: "This is a really important game and we have to ensure that we do not fall flat after winning a massive game in front of a massive crowd on Wednesday.

"Airdrie have a bit of hope again about turning things around after Dunfermline were hit with a points deduction so that makes them really difficult opponents."