Fraserburgh manager Mark Cowie is relishing returning to the normality of the Highland League.
All eyes were on the Broch in midweek for their 3-0 defeat by Rangers in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup in front of a sold-out Bellslea Park.
After their impressive showing against Graeme Murty’s Light Blues, Cowie isn’t expecting a hangover from his players today when they take on Deveronvale at Princess Royal Park, Banff (2pm). He said: “This game is even more important than the Ran-gers cup tie in my book.
“As much as I enjoyed the build-up to Wednesday’s game, something I’m never likely to experience again, I’m glad it’s now over and we can get back to concentrating on the league.”
Vale manager Steve Dolan, who has a fully- fit squad at his disposal, said: “I’m sure the Broch players will be flying as usual as they are pretty used to playing Wednesday then Saturday, so that’s not an issue for me.”
Buckie Thistle have only 14 players available for this afternoon’s home game against Wick Academy.
Buckie are missing eight players through injury, while midfielder Ceiran McLean is suspended.
Manager Graeme Stewart said: “We’ve only got 13 outfield players and a substitute goalkeeper fit but I am as confident as I have been all season.
“Everyone is flying at training and our last three or four performances have been really encouraging.”
Wick will be without winger Davie Allan and centre half Alan Farquhar, who are making progress from long-term injuries.
Defender Andrew Hardwick also misses out through work commitments and midfielder Jack Henry is injured, while defender Brandon Sinclair and centre forward Marc McGregor are both doubts.
The Moray derby between Forres Mechanics and Lossiemouth is subject to a 9.30am inspection.
Mechanics striker Garry Tweedie is out due to an ankle ligament injury, while full back Simon Allan and midfielder Ross McPherson remain sidelined.
The Coasters are at full strength apart from striker Scott Dunn (hamstring).
Huntly winger Reece McKeown is suspended for the visit of Nairn County, while Gary McGowan, Michael Ewen and Paul Napier face fitness tests. County’s only absentee is defender Callum Ednie (hamstring).
New Rothes striker Gary Kerr will be out for up to six weeks with a knee ligament injury. He misses this after-noon’s Mackessack Park derby against Keith, while midfielder Dale Gillespie has an ankle problem.
Turriff are at full strength for the visit of Strathspey Thistle to the Haughs. The Jags will be without striker Adam MacLeod.
