Team problems mount for Albion Rovers

Jan 27 2010 by Colin Paterson, Airdrie & Coatbridge

PAUL MARTIN is dealing with a selection crisis ahead of Albion Rovers’ crunch trip to Annan Athletic this Saturday, writes Colin Paterson.

The Cliftonhill gaffer looks set to be without five key players as his side look to halt an eight-game winless streak in the league.

A hamstring strain will rule out midfielder Chris Boyle, with Todd Lumsden (ankle) and young striker Marc Pollock (knee) also missing.

Forward Pat Walker is another player nursing a hamstring strain and he is rated as doubtful after being assessed by the physio on Monday night.

On top of that, central defender Mick O’Byrne is suspended following his red card in the 1-0 defeat to Forfar Athletic at the weekend. Ex-Dundee United and Stranraer youngster Phil McGrath is his likely replacement.

Rovers suffered two defeats in three matches last week as they returned to action following their long big freeze lay-off.

And while Martin admits that results in the second quarter of the campaign haven’t been great but he feels good fortune has been in short supply.

“I feel sorry for the players,” he told the Advertiser. “Our effort and application over the past few weeks has been excellent.

“Performances have been fine but we are in absolute freefall results-wise. I think we have deserved more than four draws and four defeats from our last eight league games.

“I think a lot of things have gone against us and we are being kicked when we are down. In terms of decisions, we’ve had the kitchen sink thrown at us.

“Pat might make Saturday but Chris is out. The injuries are disappointing but, for me, they are a direct result of playing three games in six days last week.

“It’s too much for part-time players and it has put us at a disadvantage.”

The manager is remaining upbeat, however, and added: “Our season isn’t over.

“We have to look at the positives which are that we’re playing well, we’re creating chances and our passing and fitness is good.

“I felt it was a travesty that we didn’t take anything out of the game against Forfar on Saturday.

“The players have had a great season so far but we know we need a result to turn it on its head again.”

Meanwhile, Martin has urged the Cliftonhill faithful to get behind fit-again hitman Marc McCusker.

He said: “I don’t think we should be having a go at him so soon. We have to give him time, remember that he is only 20 and that he has been through a lot in the past year.”