Airdrie United look ahead to big Falkirk clash

Dec 5 2012 by Colin Paterson, Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser

Jimmy Boyle believes all the pressure is on Falkirk ahead of this weekend’s crunch clash at New Broomfield.

Airdrie welcome the Bairns on Saturday knowing they will climb above them in the Irn-Bru First Division table with a fourth league victory of the season.

It’s a battle between two clubs who appear to be focusing on developing young players in the first-team.

But Boyle says Steven Pressley’s Falkirk are favourites for the match due to their full-time status.

He said: “We enjoyed a good game against them up there in September when we drew 1-1. They were the better team in the first half but we had a go at them after the break.

“Both teams are doing their best to bring through young kids. I think Steven is doing a good job but it’s easier for him as Falkirk are full-time and they have more time to work on things.

“Falkirk should be favourites. They are full-time and have quality players but so have we.

“I’ll be telling my players to have no fear and just go out and play. I want us to express ourselves in this game.”

Boyle added: “I feel that we are working hard. We’re in people’s faces and we’re defending well as a team.

“I’m happy with how things have gone in the past couple of weeks but I know that we can get a lot better.”

Meanwhile, Boyle says he will be backed in the transfer market by Diamonds supremo Jim Ballantyne – if he identifies the players who could improve the squad.

“We’d like to strengthen in the middle of the park and in attack but we will wait for the right people to come along,” the manager added.

“If something turns up, the chairman will make money available. I have no doubts about that.”

Airdrie will be without suspended midfielder Jack Boyle and the injured duo of Kenny Arthur and Alan Cook for the visit of the Bairns.