Airdrieonians Set for Stirling Test Airdrieonians will travel to the Albert Bartlett Stadium on Tuesday 25 August 2026 at 7:45pm to contest the KDM Evolution Trophy group stage against Stirling Albion. The match will be officiated by Colin Steven, with assistants Kevin Totten and Keiran Trayner.
Key Players and Tactics Lewis Gibson, the 21‑year‑old former Raith player, opened his Airdrie career with two goals in his first three matches and scored on his debut in a 3‑1 win at Dumbarton. He highlighted the importance of a fast start, saying, “The first goal in football can win you the game sometimes… If we go out there and start sharp, there’s no reason why we can’t run away with it.”
Gibson also praised Stirling’s summer recruitment and coaching, noting that the Binos “will probably sit behind more than what County did – they were more end‑to‑end.” He believes Airdrieonians must break them down early to secure a win.
Injury Updates and Squad Changes Head coach John Rankin hinted at a change for the match, citing the good performances of Cole Williams and Divine Iserhienrhien in the opening fixture. Gavin Gallagher will miss the game with a hip flexor injury, and Mason Chisholm and Zac Butterworth are also listed on the injury list. Cole McKinnon and Dapo Mebude are close to returning to action.
Airdrieonians already have three points from a 4‑2 victory over Cove Rangers and a 3‑1 win at Dumbarton. Gibson said a win on Tuesday could serve as a springboard: “Get a good result on Tuesday, take it into next Saturday, and then go from there.”
Match Details • Date: Tuesday 25 August 2026 • Time: 7:45pm • Venue: Albert Bartlett Stadium, Airdrie • Referee: Colin Steven • Assistants: Kevin Totten, Keiran Trayner
The Diamonds aim to continue their winning form in the KDM Evolution Trophy, with Gibson urging his teammates to “bounce back” after a disappointing loss to Ross County on Saturday. The match is expected to be a quick succession of games, and Airdrieonians will look to maintain momentum and push for promotion this season.
