Gaffer Jimmy Boyle is encouraged by Airdrie's recent improved performances, and wants them to continue against rivals Falkirk tomorrow.

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Steven Pressley's men may be three places above the Diamonds in the league, but only two points separate the teams and Boyle knows that a win would give his side a morale-boosting shunt up the table.

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The matches involving Dumbarton, Hamilton and Cowdenbeath have already fallen foul to the weather, and Airdrie could find themselves as high as sixth after Saturday's card.

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Boyle said "I feel that we are working hard. We’re in people’s faces and we’re defending well as a team. 

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“I’m happy with how things have gone in the past couple of weeks but I know that we can get a lot better.”

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He recognises that Falkirk are in a similar position to Airdrie off the field as well, relying heavily on their youth system to provide first team players.

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“Both teams are doing their best to bring through young kids. I think Steven is doing a good job but it’s easier for him as Falkirk are full-time and they have more time to work on things. 

 

“Falkirk should be favourites. They are full-time and have quality players but so have we.

 

“I’ll be telling my players to have no fear and just go out and play. I want us to express ourselves in this game.”

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Although depleted by suspensions to his namesakes John and Jack, manager Boyle has moved to secure the services of former Cowdenbeath, Partick and Dunfermline striker Liam Buchanan.

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The frontman has initially signed a short-term deal, and Boyle was pleased with the capture.

 

"Liam obviously is looking for full time football but he has a good pedigree and has played in the SPL. I had been speaking to him for a while but he had to be released from Sligo first. He will add to our squad over the next few weeks."