Craig Ewen says the weekend postponements have impacted Keith’s Scottish Cup preparations.
The Maroons welcome West of Scotland League Premier Division side Cumnock to Kynoch Park this weekend in round one.
Manager Ewen revealed they were set to have Cumnock watched on Saturday ahead of the tie.
But all football in Scotland was postponed at the weekend following the death of the Queen.
Ewen admits that makes this weekend’s game something of a step into the unknown for Keith.
He said: “We had two independent people who were meant to be going to watch Cumnock on Saturday, but unfortunately all the games were off.
“A lot of the clubs will probably be in the same boat where they couldn’t get their opposition watched.
“It’s difficult because there isn’t much time between the preliminary round, the draw and then the first round.
“After the draw’s made there are only two Saturdays before the first round and it’s not a lot of time to get the opposition watched.
“With Saturday being off, it’s a big of a step into the unknown for us.
“I’m not sure about Cumnock – maybe they had somebody up to watch us the week before.
“But I would assume most clubs would have had someone earmarked to watch their opponents the game before, which was postponed.
“You can pick up bits and pieces of video footage and have an idea, but it’s not ideal.
“We’ve had a couple of decent results and we’re going into the game in a positive manner.
“Hopefully we can put on a good performance and get into the next ground, but I’d expect a very difficult game.”
Big day for Highland League clubs
The Scottish Cup first round is an important day for Breedon Highland League clubs.
Ewen says progression to the second round would be a major boost for Keith.
He added: “Financially for the club, it’s a massive game because if you can get through a couple of rounds it’s very beneficial.
“The draw plays a part as well, but the Scottish Cup is a competition you always want to do well in.
“I know Cumnock have players who have played at a higher level and have good experience in their team.
“They won at Darvel in their first league game, which tells me they’re a good side, therefore I would expect a very tough game.
“Financially, for all the Highland League clubs, it’s a big thing to get through to the next round and we’d be over the moon to get there.”
