MATCH PREVIEW: Back on the grass

After training and playing matches on 3G throughout pre-season, Reds will be back on the grass on Saturday when they host Motherwell based Caledonian Braves in a first ever meeting at Borough Park (1.30pm).

Borough Park

The Lowland League club play at the fifth tier of the Scottish league system and, last season, finished a commendable 3rd behind champions East Kilbride and Celtic B – their highest placing since the club was re-branded in 2019.

They are now the youngest ‘senior’ club north of the border having originally come to prominence under the Edusport Academy banner, when they played at Annan Athletic’s Galabank Stadium.

The Braves will arrive in West Cumbria as an unknown quantity with Reds’ players and staff probably wondering what to expect. But Jack Dickinson will be familiar with Ricky Waddell’s squad, and style, having played against them several times during his Gretna days - the most recent occasion being in the Southern Counties Cup Final at the end of last season.

Waddell played most of his football in Scotland serving the likes of Falkirk, Partick Thistle, Hamilton Academical, Forfar Athletic, Ayr United and Clyde before spending the last decade helping establish the club.

They now have their own base – Alliance Park – where they proudly display the Fenix Trophy which they lifted in May. Their path to the final included a victory over FC United of Manchester which gives some idea of the challenge they will offer on Saturday.

Darren Edmondson will probably utilise a 22-man squad again for Reds’ third friendly which will see some, possibly all, of the new recruits make their home debut.

Supporters are reminded of the unusual kick-off time on Saturday although the food and drink outlets will be operational from noon.

Match officials:

Scott Henry

Ryan Woods

Paul Stephenson