Ally Roy says confidence is sky-high in the Airdrie camp as the top two prepare to meet at Stark’s Park.

 

The table-topping Diamonds travel to Kirkcaldy to face second-placed Raith Rovers this weekend, having seen off East Fife’s challenge for the number one spot last weekend.

 

Roy came off the bench to grab a superb fourth Airdrie goal on the day as the Diamonds made it six wins on the bounce, and the frontman is pleased to playing a part in the impressive winning streak.

 

“It was a big game, and we showed how good we can be by dominating the match and winning 4-0.

 

“On a personal note it was good to come on and score - it’s always frustrating when you’re not playing as much as you’d like, but you can’t really argue when the boys are producing the goods every week.”

 

The form of Calum Gallagher, Dale Carrick and Callum Smith has meant Roy has made his contributions from the bench in recent weeks, but the 22-year-old says a certain upcoming Scottish cup tie is providing extra encouragement to stake a claim.

 

“I’m desperate to get back in for that one! There are a few boys here who have had good times at Hearts, and it’s obviously where I started off and I still have some good friends there.

 

“It’ll be a great test for us when it comes, and it’s a good incentive to keep performing because everyone wants to be involved and have an impact on the game.

 

“All I can do is play well and score goals in the time I’m getting. If the opportunity arises to get back in the team, I’ll be ready for it and I’ll be looking to keep my place.”

 

That competition for places is just one of a number of factors pushing the Diamonds on as they continue to extend their winning run - and the squad will be seeking to make amends for September’s result against John McGlynn’s side, in which a solitary Grant Anderson goal saw the Rovers leave the Penny Cars Stadium with all three points.

 

With only a point separating the sides at the top of League One, Ally says the stakes couldn’t be higher.

 

“It’s a big game, and we’re all looking forward to going there and hopefully getting a result.

 

“Raith are a good side, and it’s not an easy place to go - a few teams have found that out this season.

 

“We’re full of confidence at the moment so we’ll go there and give it all we’ve got. It should be a great game.”

 

Manager Ian Murray says Airdrie have a great incentive to continue their scintillating form.

 

“It’s obviously a hard game, our second top-of-the-table clash in a row, but if we can perform to the same levels we’ll have an opportunity to extend our lead.

 

“Raith have a good home record and a good record against ourselves, so hopefully it’ll be an entertaining game for the supporters.

 

“To have such an important match at this stage of the season is fantastic for us all.”

 

Craig Thomson (arm) is the only injury concern for the Diamonds boss ahead of Saturday’s trip.

 

Greg Aitken referees his first Airdrie match this season.