Latapy-less City aim to bounce back

Edinburgh City couldn’t wish to face a tougher domestic opponent tomorrow as they seek to pick themselves up following their 1-0 defeat in the Scottish Cup last week to top Ayrshire Juniors outfit, Irvine Meadow.

City face league champions, Spartans in the Central Taxis Premier Division at Meadowbank with manager John Green saying: “Spartans have every right to be considered the best team in the East of Scotland League. It will be an interesting game with our players looking to bounce back.”

Russell Latapy, who made his City debut against Irvine, will not be involved because he has returned to his home in Portugal, while Ian McFarland damaged ankle ligaments in the cup tie and is likely to be out for six to eight weeks. Scott McFarlane and Andy Howat will both come into contention for starting places.

Spartans, meanwhile, are still in shock after it was discovered that they may have fielded an unregistered and therefore ineligible player [allegedly Keith McLeod] against Culter which they won 2-0 last Saturday in the second round of the Scottish Cup.

“Tomorrow will be about how our players react to the news that they might not be in the Scottish Cup third round and looking forward to a massive game against Partick Thistle,” said Spartans co-manager, Mike Lawson.

“Individuals can be affected in different ways so Sam Lynch [co-manager] and myself have to ask ‘will this situation inspire them’ or ‘will it knock them in the teeth?’ We spoke to the players at training last night and they are desperate to know if we are still in the Scottish Cup. Preparations, therefore, to play Edinburgh City are not as normal as they would usually be. We may make some changes but they will be last minute decisions.”

Spartans’ only injury concern is long-term casualty Jack Beesley while Chris Anderson, who missed out last weekend, is likely to be included in the squad.

The game kicks-off at 2.30pm with admission prices, adults £5.00 and concessions £2.00.