Nicky Cadden feels the psychological boost of a win over Stranraer could be as important as the three points.

​

'Cadds' has established himself as a first team regular this season, and the 19-year-old midfielder is excited about the visit to Stair Park as Airdrie find themselves in contention for a play-off place with just five games remaining.

​

"It's a massive game, especially with only a few points separating us in the league.

​

"Having a game in hand over Stranraer and getting a result down there would give everyone, players and supporters alike, a lift going into the remaining games."

​

The Blues defeat to Ayr United last weekend gave the Diamonds renewed hope after they could only manage a draw against play-off rivals Albion Rovers.

​

Cadden is keen to look on the bright side.

​

"After a superb goal by Fitzy, to then concede in the last ten minutes was disappointing.

"We felt that a victory would have gone a long way to getting us to that all-important fourth spot - however we took a point, and Albion haven't beaten us this season, so you've got to look at the positives."

​

Airdrie failed to beat Stranraer in the two meetings at New Broomfield this season, but recorded an impressive 3:1 victory in Ayrshire last December - a stat which Cadden says is typical of the Diamonds' form this season. 

​

"To be honest our results away from home have been better for some reason. 

​

"We're going into this match with as much confidence as we did when we were there the last time - and we came away with an excellent result."

​

A win over Brian Reid's men would see Airdrie overtake them in the table having played one game less. With the Diamonds' play-off destiny in their own hands, a top four finish would be the icing on the cake after an excellent season for Nicky.

​

"I've been delighted to break through to the first team this year and get quite a number of games under my belt.

​

"I feel that I have done not too badly so far, but I've got a lot more to offer. In the Under 20s I was scoring on a regular basis so I feel I could contribute more to that side of the game."

​

The defeat to Ayr last weekend ended a four-match unbeaten streak for the Blues, who this week released Dutch striker Kevin Schmidt.

​

Airdrieonians Acting Head Coach Danny Lennon again has a full squad to choose from as he prepares to head South for the crunch showdown.

​

Gavin Duncan referees the Stair Park clash.