Fraserburgh central defender Ryan Christie is setting his sights on a Highland League surge, starting tonight against Turriff United.
If seventh-placed Broch win at Bellslea Park they will leapfrog the injury-hit Haughs club – as well as Keith – into fifth place in the Highland League table.
However, Christie, 31, who played his first game of the season in the 2-2 draw against Cove Rangers a fortnight ago having undergone an operation for a slipped disc in August, said: “We have Formartine United, who are sitting in fourth place, one spot higher than Turriff, firmly in our sights, as we go into the new year.
“The recent game against Cove marked my return to competitive action for the Broch, although I did make an appearance for Fraserburgh United, the previous weekend, before I was recalled from my short-term loan to the local junior club.
“I’m glad to be back after my second back operation. I had my first one in 2010 but I’m now back as fit as I’ve ever been, although I am lacking match fitness.”
Looking towards tonight’s tricky match against United, captain Christie added: “We are expecting a really big crowd. The atmosphere at home games is always good but it should be even noisier tomorrow night.
“Turriff have a lot of players out just now but they’re on a good run of form and still manage to put out a strong starting 11.”
The Broch will be without midfield pair Greg Buchan, who has a back injury, and Dean Cowie, who has a knee problem.
Turriff manager Ross Jack knows United will have to be at their best to get a positive result.
He said: “It is a good opportunity for Fraserburgh but if we put in the performances we have managed over the last few weeks with our injury-ravaged squad I’m sure we will do all right.
“They did well to draw 2-2 against Cove two weeks ago but we scored twice in our derby game against Deveronvale to win 2-1 last Saturday and we could have scored a lot more.”
Turriff will welcome back midfielder Cammy Booth after suspension but defenders Chris Herd and Robbie Allan have joined United’s long injury list.
Deveronvale take on Lossiemouth at Princess Royal Park, Banff, Fort William travel to meet Strathspey Thistle and Nairn County entertain Clach.
