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Scottish Football

Scotland's achievements and East Stirling's credentials

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Border Reiver on why the Lithuania win was more important than the France one and all the best bets from North of the border

It's back to league duty this weekend but a word about the national side first. The whole of Scottish football is buzzing after Scotland's two tremendous wins during the international break. Everybody is crowing about the result in France but last week's win over Lithuania, for me anyway, was far more important. Scotland have a very good record when they are the underdogs, but nearly always under- perform when they are the favourites. After conceding the equaliser, I was expecting them to struggle and hold on for a draw but they dug deep and despite not playing well managed a good victory. The players and the management are giving their all and preparing perfectly for every match. I just hope they can sustain this for the next three matches and claim what is rightfully theirs, a place in the finals of Euro 2008. Lets hope the excitement generated by them can get more spectators supporting their local teams.

East Stirling v Stranraer.

East Stirling continue to prove everyone wrong and should be to strong for Stranraer this week. Shire are unbeaten at home including a good win over Queens Park in the Bells Cup. Stranraer sit third in the table but that is mainly because of their good home record. They have lost both away games so far and I'm confident that run won't be broken on Saturday.

Elgin v Albion Rovers.

Elgin City are the new East Stirling. They have conceded nine goals in their last three home games. Although Albion Rovers aren't on fire themselves, I like to bet against the worst team in any league and Elgin are by far the worst team in the Third this year. Albion did play well against Berwick Rangers in the Bells Cup and a reproduction of that display should give them the points.

Montrose v East Fife.

On paper this looks like an away banker, problem for East Fife is they are playing on plastic. Montrose have a plastic pitch and this gives them a bit of an advantage over the league leaders. Although the bare form indicates Montrose struggling at home, they have taken longer to get accustomed to their new pitch than expected. East Fife can do no wrong at present and I still expect them to win the league, but they may have to settle for a point on Saturday.
This weeks bets are: back East Stirling around 2.5, back Albion Rovers around 1.95 and lay East Fife around 2.2.