'Win over Ayr is so vital now' says Black

Mar 20 2008 Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser

KENNY Black says his troops are desperate to get back to winning ways when they host Ayr United in a must-win match tonight.

The Diamonds saw the gap between themselves and leaders Ross County increase to 12 points on Saturday.

But with 21 points still up for grabs, Black is calling on his team to give it all they’ve got in the next seven fixtures.

Even if the league title proves to be a step too far, the manager wants his players to hit top form so that when the play-offs roll around they are ready to see off their challengers and win an instant return to the first division.

He said: ”The play-offs look like the most likely scenario but I am not going to concede anything just yet. I have seen strange things happen in football and there are still 21 points to play for so we must put Saturday’s disappointment behind us and focus all our energies on the remaining seven games starting with Ayr United.”

Like club chairman Jim Ballantyne, Black wants the Airdrie faithful to roar his side over the finish line.

He added: “I remember when we lost out to Brechin City not that long ago and their manager Michael O’Neill used our supporters’ reaction to his team’s advantage.

“But what I have been telling my players is that it is up to them to create their own atmosphere and get the fans behind them.

“Although I am not giving up hope of winning the title, if the play-offs are our best chance of going up then we must go into them in good form, that’s why it’s vital that we give everything we’ve got over the next seven games.”

On the injury front Steven McDougall and Greame Homes remain sidelined but other than that the squad is fighting fit.

Meanwhile, in this week’s Airdrie United lottery, there were six winners of the £800 draw after 3, 5 and 7 were selected.

Three people share the £300 prize after 14, 15 and 20 came out the hat.