Airdrieonians face Stirling Albion in a KDM Evolution Trophy group stage match at the Albert Bartlett Stadium on Tuesday, August 25. The Diamonds are looking to build on their opening win in the competition after a weekend defeat in the league.
How has Lewis Gibson started at Airdrieonians?
Winger Lewis Gibson has made a strong start to life at Airdrieonians. The 21-year-old, who joined from Raith Rovers, scored on his debut in the 3-1 KDM Trophy win at Dumbarton. He has now netted two goals in his first three appearances for the club. Gibson believes the team has shown good understanding for the short time they have been together. "I know a couple of the boys at Stirling, and they’re a good side," Gibson told the outlet that reported the match preview. "They’ve recruited well in the summer and they’ve got a good coach behind them."
What is the injury situation for Airdrieonians?
Head coach John Rankin has several injury concerns to manage ahead of this fixture. Gavin Gallagher is sidelined with a hip flexor injury and faces a spell out. Mason Chisholm and Zac Butterworth are also unavailable through injury. There is more positive news regarding Cole McKinnon and Dapo Mebude, who are both closing in on a return to action. Fans can track the latest availability on the club's injuries page. Rankin hinted he might make changes for this cup match, with Cole Williams and Divine Iserhienrhien having performed well in the opening group win.
What do we know about Stirling Albion?
Stirling Albion, nicknamed the Binos, come into this match off the back of a 4-2 victory over Cove Rangers in their first KDM Trophy outing. Managed by Steven Whittaker, their squad includes former Airdrieonians players Andy McNeil and Jordan Allan. Their home ground is Forthbank. The Binos will provide a tough test for Airdrieonians as both sides look to secure progression in the competition. The Diamonds currently have three points from their one match, sitting level with Stirling at this early stage.
Who is officiating the match?
The match will be refereed by Colin Steven, assisted by Kevin Totten and Keiran Trayner. This will be Steven's first time taking charge of an Airdrieonians match this season. The club has reminded supporters that unacceptable behaviour at the stadium could result in ejection, with issues able to be reported anonymously via posters. The club's unacceptable conduct policy is available online.
What comes next for Airdrieonians?
This match offers Airdrieonians a chance to respond quickly after their Saturday loss to Ross County. Gibson has stated his belief that the squad has enough quality to be at the top end of the League One table and push for promotion via the play-offs. He also highlighted the importance of a fast start, saying, "The first goal in football can win you the game sometimes, if you get the first goal then it’s in your hands." The match will be streamed live on DiamondsTV on a pay-per-view basis. Following this fixture, the Diamonds' schedule continues with a busy period, details of which can be found on the fixtures page. The club will hope a positive result can build momentum as they aim to climb the standings.
