GALA Fairydean Rovers are back in action tonight for their first home game of the 2023/24 Lowland League campaign.

The season got off to a disappointing start with a 3-0 away defeat to Bo’ness United on Saturday.

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And tonight they welcome East Stirlingshire to Netherdale and manager Martin Scott is expecting a tough encounter.

Scott said: ““Bo’ness were direct and physical and had a very good shape. And getting the early goals clearly gave them a lift.

Border Telegraph: Gala Fairydean Rovers in action against Newtongrange StarGala Fairydean Rovers in action against Newtongrange Star (Image: Thomas Brown)

“But even then I felt comfortable but we just couldn’t penetrate their defence and in the end didn’t deserve anything out of the game.

In possession I thought we were fine up until the middle third but we didn’t ask enough questions of the Bo’ness defence. That was particularly disappointing considering the amount of firepower we had on the pitch.

“I knew it wasn’t going to be straight forward because no games in this league will be but I think it’s been a learning curve for the players.

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“I know East Stirlingshire’s manager Pat Scullion who used to be a team mate of mine and his team will be fit and aggressive.

“But it’s a game that I am looking forward to. We have some of the best players in this league but we have to show that collectively and stand up to aggressive teams.

“If we give a good account of ourselves then we can take the three points but whatever happens you can guarantee entertainment.”

Rovers have a full squad to choose from apart from injured trio Ethan Dougall, Gareth Rodger and Sam Nicholson.