David van Zanten says Airdrie were unlucky to lose the last time they met Ayr United - and there's no reason the Diamonds can't get a result on Saturday.

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Ian McCall's side top League One, a point clear of Dunfermline Athletic - who picked up a 2:0 win over third-placed Airdrie last weekend.

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Veteran defender van Zanten was not pleased with the result, but is satisfied with the Diamonds' current league position.

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"Obviously we're disappointed with the result as we went into the game hoping to get 3 points. 

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"On the other hand we have to remember we were playing against the only full time team in the league. 

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"Our aim this season was to make the playoffs and we are still very much in the mix to do that."

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It's often said that there are no easy games in this league, but Airdrie could scarcely have asked for a more difficult one to follow the Dunfermline defeat.

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The Honest Men are unbeaten in 11 matches, a run which includes their 2-1 defeat of Airdrie in September, but van Zanten believes the Diamonds are capable of halting that streak.

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"Ayr are obviously flying high and playing with confidence but there's no reason why we can't go there and get something from the game.

 

"The last game between the teams was pretty even but hopefully this time we come out on top."

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The former Dumbarton man has featured at left-back recently following a stuttering start to his New Broomfield career, but he made his name on the opposite side of the pitch.

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It doesn't faze David, however, and the Irishman is keen for his new side to do well.

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"I'll play anywhere the manager wants me to, to be honest. 

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"It's been an up and down start for me - picking up an injury and missing a few games didn't help - but I've got high hopes for this season. 

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"We've got an excellent manager and assistant and a brilliant team spirit amongst the players."

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Scott Smith made his return from ligament damage last weekend, but striker Bryan Prunty missed out with a calf strain and Marc Fitzpatrick was withdrawn following a back injury. Both players are being monitored, while Jim Lister is still a few weeks away from contention.

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Referee Stephen Finnie will take charge of the Somerset Park clash.