FAIRYDEAN Rovers boss Steven Noble is hoping to end this season's derby disasters tonight when Vale of Leithen arrive at Netherdale.

But the Gala gaffer is quick to point out that his side haven't lost a domestic home game since August.

A 7-1 thumping at Selkirk earlier this season was followed by a 4-1 defeat at Hawick Royal Albert.

But Noble believes his side can turn around their derby day fortunes against Vale.

He said: "Vale have been in great form this season and we know they will make it tough for us.

"We are desperate to climb up the table and to do that we need all three points.

"Our home form has been excellent this season and I want that to continue in the derby match."

Both Des Sutherland and Ross Aitchison are doubts for the midweek fixture due to work commitments.

But Noble will welcome back David Bonnar from suspension and teenager Sean Pringle is expected to return following a broken nose injury.

Vale currently sit eight places above the Fairydean Rovers in the Lowland league.

A derby win this evening would take them up to joint fourth.

Manager Chris Anderson believes the next two matches are vital to Vale's season. He told us: "We are away at Gala then Edinburgh University - if we win both we will be pushing for a top six finish, if we get beat in both we are looking over our shoulder.

"These two games could well determine how our season will go.

"I have been pleased with our league form but we need that to continue into these two big games.

"Gala are a good footballing team and we know that it will be a tough place to come and win."

Anderson will welcome back Keith McLeod, Jay Stevens and Sean Stewart to the squad who were beaten in the South Regional Cup at Threave Rovers on Saturday.

Anderson added: "We only had 12 fit players at Threave - thankfully we should be up to 15 or 16 for the Gala game."

Tonight's Lowland League derby between Gala Fairydean Rovers and Vale of Leithen kicks off at 7.45pm.