Thistle boss Stuart Davidson believes Largs can take heart from their recent display against Kilbirnie as they search for their first victory in the Premier League.
‘Arnie’ believes that Largs can get three points at the Ardagh Cup holders, after nearly beating Ladeside in the group stages, and confidence is high after victory over Wishaw in the West of Scotland Cup.
It is a 2pm kick-off at Valefield Park on Saturday, and as an additional incentive, victory for Largs would see them leapfrog their derby rivals.
Looking forward to the game, Arnie (Stuart) said: “There is a lot at stake both of us down the bottom of the table - it has all the right ingredients to be a right good game and we are expecting a battle.
“We are not looking too far ahead, we are going to give our all in the game, and we hope that gets us on the board.
“We played very well at Kilbirnie in the Ardagh Cup and our tempo was high, and we pressed them game - we could have gone on to win the match.
“That’s how close it is - and they went on to win the cup - Kilbirnie have quality players and a right good squad. We know what we are in for - they just beat Auchinleck, so they are no mugs, and they will be tough as they know how to work hard.”
Arnie, who was assistant coach at Kilbirnie Ladeside, was asked if he had a particular insight into Largs’ derby rivals, and replied; “Maybe a wee insight, I know their manager Stephen Swift well, and I was delighted for him to win a cup, and I know how prepared he is and how much he wants to win this game. He is a top manager, and really passionate, so we will have to be ready.”
Arnie continued: “The battlecry for Saturday is let’s build on Saturday, and work hard. I am fully confident we can got and get the three points. I am not putting too much pressure on the players, we don’t want any mention of ‘Great Escapes’ or anything like that. We want to enjoy the game, get the three points, and see where it takes us.”