Peterhead manager Jim McInally believes League 1 is the most competitive division in the country.
The Blue Toon moved into play-off contention with a 3-2 win at Ayr United last weekend but McInally knows the level of performance must be maintained in what is proving to be a hugely competitive environment.
McInally, whose players host Brechin City today, said: “It’s cut-throat football and every weekend is a six-pointer. League 1 is turning out to be every bit as competitive as I expected.
“We’re in sixth place, yet we are five points off top spot. That tells you all you need to know about how tough it is.
“We’ve played Brechin in the league and cup this season but this will be the first time we have played them at Balmoor.
“We know each other well and there are no secrets between the sides. It’s a huge game and we know if we win we are right in the mix.”
The Peterhead manager is looking for a huge improvement from his players after their lacklustre showing in the Aberdeenshire Shield at Banks o’ Dee on Wednesday.
The Blue Toon needed extra time to overcome the impressive junior side and McInally is anxious to avoid a repeat against City today.
He said: “Wednesday turned into a nightmare for us. Apart from the display the last thing we needed was extra time.
“We should give the opposition credit as Dee were fired up and wanted it more but I won’t accuse my players of not trying. Bryan Gilfillan stays at Annan, Mark Millar lives at Greenock and Fraser McLaren is at Dunbar, yet they all travelled to play in the game which says everything about their commitment.
“We didn’t play well but there was no shortage of effort. All the credit should go to Banks o’ Dee as they played very well.
“Dean Cowie played for an hour which is what I didn’t want in his first game back from knee surgery. He looked sharp but I’m hoping he doesn’t suffer a reaction.”