MONTROSE manager Jim Weir is expecting a difficult game from ARBROATH but believes his men have a new-found confidence and self-belief after their remarkable comeback at Stenhousemuir last week.

The 5-2 win was the first for Weir since taking charge at Links Park and there’s nothing he would like more than to follow it with a home derby success.

“I know how much this one means to the supporters,” said Weir.

“Arbroath are a good side and have just beaten the league leaders. It will be a very difficult game for us, but one which we go into with confidence.”

An almost certain starter is centre-half Neil Stephen whose trio of headers made him last week’s hero.

“Neil showed terrific attacking of the ball in the opposition box,” said Weir. “He was very aggressive and I’ve told him he has to show the same aggression when defending cross balls in our box.”

Greg Henslee, who went on in the second half at Stenny, may also have earned a starter’s jersey.

“He showed great attitude, and took his chance when he got it,” said Weir.

Cammy Bell, the on-loan keeper from Kilmarnock, is also likely to feature.

Bell will be with Montrose until the end of the season. Though unfortunate to pick the ball out of the net twice last week, he also pulled off some key saves.

Weir also had former Rangers youngster Sam Weir playing last week as a trialist. Although he was impressed by his skill, he believes he might lack the physical qualities necessary.

The one piece of bad news is that Stephen Black, who scored last week, will be missing having returned to the USA. The only injury doubt is Jed Stirling.

Lichties boss John McGlashan is relishing what is always a hard-fought derby game.

Having beaten league leaders Berwick last Saturday, Arbroath are well-placed to pursue their promotion ambitions.

But with Montrose putting five past Stenhousemuir in their last outing, McGlashan knows they will be tough opponents.

He said, “We go into the match with confidence but, equally, Montrose on their home turf will be up for it.

“They really have nothing to lose and can just have a go at us; but we, on the other hand, have to maintain our discipline to keep the pressure on the other teams around us.

“It is, once again, a massive game for us, and having Wednesday’s match against Dumbarton postponed again because of the weather, while frustrating, means that I have a fully fit and totally motivated squad to choose from.”