The answer is six points, says Riddel

LEITH ATHLETIC manager Derek Riddel has set his players an immediate target of picking up six points from their next two Central Taxis Premier Division fixtures, starting tomorrow with a home game against Lothian Thistle Hutchison Vale at Marine Drive.

“It is vitally important that we win our home games and after tomorrow our next home match is against Civil Service Strollers,” said Riddel. “Our aim after being promoted last season is that we have to consolidate our position and that means having to beat the five or six teams who will probably be in the bottom half of the league table.”

Leith are fundamentally a very young team as was explained by Riddel. “Eight out of the 11 players who started last Saturday against Vale of Leithen were still eligible to play Under-21 football,” he said.

“However, we have signed John Manson in midweek. He is a central midfield player who was previously with Craigroyston and he will give us more experience in that area.”

Turning his attention to tomorrow’s game against Lothian, Riddel added: “They are very well organised with an excellent goalkeeper in Kevin Swain and they do have plenty of experience through the backbone of their team.”

Lothian Thistle’s manager, Mark Lamb, said: “I have done my homework and we expect a tough game against a fairly young side and with a manager who is keen to progress them upwards. Leith are a good passing team and play football in the correct way.”

Lothian have Joe Murray available after suspension although Alan McDonagh is unavailable.