Largs Thistle report virtually a clean bill of health going into this Saturday’s big Scottish Cup clash against Johnstone Burgh, mindful of some big cup upsets last weekend.

The club and supporters were left disappointed by Saturday’s 10.45am call-off as it disrupts the recent momentum that has been building. Thistle are unbeaten in five matches.

It is a 1.45pm kick-off at Keanie Park this Saturday, and with two teams in the Premier League being knocked out of the competition by lower league opposition, Thistle boss Sandy MacLean has warned his troops against complacency.

Last season after knocking out Kilbirnie in the Scottish, Largs fell at the next stage to lowly Kilsyth, and will need to be wary of another banana skin against a stubborn Johnstone side who have proved difficult to beat recently.

Iain Fisher is suspended after losing his red card appeal from the previous round against Sauchie, and sits out for the next two matches, while Sean Pierce and Mark Murray are both out due to injury.

Sandy said: “The momentum has been going with Largs, and we have set some targets for the players. We are disappointed that we didn’t get the opportunity to extend that run last weekend against Johnstone Burgh. It will be a heavy park, but that is the magic of the cup, and you have to go to these grounds and get wins if you are wanting to enjoy a sunny day in May. You just need to look at Irvine Meadow, Beith and Glenafton all going out of the competition on Saturday to realise what a tough competition it is.” Sandy headed to Ardeer on Saturday and watched the Stevenston side lose 5-3 to Greenock, and said: “The league is beginning to tighten up now - everybody is beating everybody else. Three good results get you in the mix, but three bad results put you in danger of relegation. Hopefully we can beat Johnstone Burgh in the cup, and then concentrate on the league. Some teams are showing a bit of form, but we are one of those teams and some will be looking over their shoulder now at us, and that is a good thing that we are making them nervous.” Largs are hoping to sign ex-Neilston midfielder Gary Fleming who impressed as a trialist but is currently injured, and Sandy has confirmed the club is on a look-out for a new reserve keeper, but added: “Our number one Grant Weir is playing very well, so there has been no mad rush to get another keerp in, although we are speaking to someone this week. It is something we will have to remedy.” The Thistle boss also praised defender Alan Gilbride for his solid performance against Yoker, and added: “He is the oldest player in that back four, and has been one of our most consistent players. He works one week in six, but is always very reliable, and that is a great attribute.” * Largs Thistle F.C will be out in force on yuletide night on Thursday 4 December with their raffle and tombola. Remember to support the club!