Airdrieonians v Stranraer preview
23rd January 2015
Bryan Gilfillan was delighted to make a scoring debut for Airdrie - and says the Diamonds have nothing to fear as they face league leaders Stranraer.
The man of many clubs joined from League One rivals Peterhead on Friday afternoon, and was in the action straight away as he scored Airdrie's second goal in a 2:2 draw with Dunfermline Athletic on Saturday.
Now Gilfillan is ready to face Stevie Aitken's table-toppers Stranraer at the weekend. He told us how his move to New Broomfield happened:
"I was very happy playing at Peterhead but this season I wasn't starting every week and a combination of that and the travelling I decided it was time for a change.
"After agreeing with Peterhead to end my contract I had a couple of offers but decided Airdrie would be good move for me.
"Airdrie has always been a big club with great history and I am happy to have signed with them."
A solid display in defence followed at East End Park, and the icing on the cake came when Gilfillan headed home Liam Watt's corner.
He ran straight to the Airdrie support in celebration - and explains that he hasn't had an easy time from the New Broomfield faithful in the past.
"I enjoy every goal I score but there is something special about scoring on your debut.
"It's always good to get fans on your side early doors, as I've had a bit of stick when playing Airdrie in the past.
"Can fans expect more goals? I hope so!"
Stranraer visit on Saturday having already beaten the Diamonds at Stair Park, and played out a 3:3 draw early in the season.
Bryan has already faced The Blues with Peterhead, and he's not overly worried about the relative league positions.
"Every team in the league is capable of beating one another despite their position in the league.
"I won't be worried about playing the league leaders, as when I step out onto the pitch I always believe my team can win.
"Stranraer have a good squad and I've faced them a few times this season already so I know it will be tough - but if we can take recent form into Saturday's game then of course a win is realistic."
If selected, Ben Richards-Everton will make his final appearance for the Diamonds, returning to Partick Thistle after the weekend.
Chris O'Neil and Marc Fitzpatrick missed the trip to Fife through injury and illness respectively, and both continue to be monitored.
Andrew Dallas is in charge of Saturday's meeting with Stranraer, who have added striker Jon McShane on loan from East Fife. Anthony Marenghi has left the club.