Airdrie United set for Albion Rovers showdown

Sep 8 2011 By Colin Paterson

Jimmy Boyle

IRN-BRU SECOND DIVISION:

AIRDRIE v ALBION ROVERS

New Broomfield, 3pm

JIMMY BOYLE says Paul Martin did not get the credit he deserved for leading Albion Rovers to their first promotion in 22 years.

The Airdrie boss was thrilled to see his counterpart guide the Coatbridge part-timers to victory over Annan Athletic in the Second Division play-off final.

Rovers' success in May was the culmination of three years of hard work with Martin forced to operate on one of the lowest playing budgets in Scottish football.

But ahead of tomorrow's derby-day battle between the Diamonds and Rovers at New Broomfield, Boyle feels Martin, a long-time friend, was short-changed when it came to receiving plaudits.

"For him to get Rovers up like he did last season was a fantastic achievement," the Airdrie manager told Advertiser Sport.

"Paul and the club did not get the credit they deserved nationally. He has been a breath of fresh air for that club and brought them success.

"Every penny becomes a prisoner when you have a tight budget and you have to use your contacts well. Paul will keep the nucleus of a squad but he knows that when he adds, it has to be the right one."

Boyle has known Martin for more than a decade and the Diamonds chief is full of praise for his opposite number's ability to get the best out of his players despite his financial restrictions.

"I’ve known Paul since he was at Queen’s Park," he added. "I did some training there and have kept in touch with him from then on.

"Paul won’t allow us to play and he will want his team to put a marker down.

"He is a winner. He has done a fantastic job at Albion Rovers over the years considering the budget and resources he has available to him.

"It sounds like he is a good man-manager. He motivates his teams well and gets them playing the way he wants."

Airdrie welcome Ally Woodburn and John Boyle back into the matchday squad for tomorrow's clash but they are without youngsters Graeme Goodall and Fraser Keast.

Tomorrow's referee: Mike Tumilty.