FAIRYDEAN Rovers manager Steven Noble wants to kick off the new year with his third straight derby win on Saturday.

Having seen off both Hawick Royal Albert and Vale of Leithen over the festive period, Noble now turns his attentions to Selkirk.

And he expects the unexpected when the rivals from along the A7 come calling on Saturday.

Noble, who endured a 7-1 defeat against Selkirk earlier this season, told us: "You just don't know what you will get with Selkirk.

"They have the players to punish you, as we've already seen, but if we play to our own strengths we should be good enough to beat them.

"I'm delighted with the victories over Hawick and Vale, but it is important for us to remain focussed and produce a similar performance against Selkirk."

Noble bid farewell to three players following Saturday's 3-2 victory at Victoria Park.

Adam Watson and Kevin Waugh both returned to Hibernian following loan spells, and Lewis White has gone back to Rangers.

But Noble has been able to secure the services of Scotland age-group goalkeeper Kieran Wright until the end of the season.

The manager added: "We would like to thank the boys who have left as they have been excellent for us.

"We have spoken with Hibs and they are keen to loan out more players which is encouraging.

"I am delighted that Kieran is staying with us as he is proving to be a big players for us this season."

The only other absentee for Saturday's derby will be the suspended Darren Smith.

Selkirk hope to have influential midfielder Umpha Koroma back in action after missing the Hawick defeat with a foot injury.

But they are without Dale Baxter, who has returned to Hearts following his loan spell, and both Fraser Neave and Kerr Scott are on holiday.

New manager Ian Fergus admits his team are stretched ahead of the Netherdale clash.

He said: "We are thin on the ground and it will be difficult going into a game against a Gala team who are in form with players missing.

"I have made enquiries about a few players and I hope to have some new faces coming in.

"We have some really tough games coming up and it is important for us to pick up points where we can.

"I know how difficult this game will be against Gala but we are capable of causing an upset."

Saturday's derby between Gala Fairydean Rovers and Selkirk kicks off at 3pm.

Vale of Leithen and Hawick Royal Albert also kick off at 3pm when they meet each other at Albert Park.