Cammy Russell was a key member of the Kelty Hearts side that dumped Brechin City into the Highland League two years ago.
Russell netted in a 3-1 aggregate win in the 2021 pyramid play-off final to send the Angus side down.
But while many feared that would lead to further demise for Brechin, it has led to a rebirth both on and off the park.
City’s crowds have gone up, they’ve added more quality to their squad and they have transformed their community links.
None of this has gone unnoticed by Russell who feels he is dealing with an entirely different animal this time.
“I went up with Kelty in the play-offs a few years ago,” said Russell.
“We actually beat Brechin in the final to go up.
“We won both games but it was a very tough tie and it certainly wasn’t easy at Glebe Park.
“It will be even harder this year.
“Brechin will have a great backing at their home ground and have done really well in the Highland League.
“They will have fans out in force to try and get them over the line.
All roads lead to Buckie…
Incredible send-off for the @BrechinCityFC players as they leave Glebe Park for their @LeagueHighland title decider with @BuckieThistle pic.twitter.com/ozk6GMVc8B
— 𝐄𝐰𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐡 (@ewansmithpr) April 22, 2023
“They have gone up levels both on and off the pitch since they were relegated.
“I can see a real difference in their side. They have assembled a great team filled with quality players.
“It’s not going to be easy for us to beat them over two legs or to go up.
“If we go up we’ll have absolutely earned it.”
Brechin City star Marc Scott hopes for better fortune at Glebe Park
Meanwhile, City star Marc Scott hopes his side can turn the tie on its’ head at Glebe Park on Saturday.
Brechin struggled to break down ten man Spartans – after home skipper Kevin Waugh was red carded in the first half.
Kevin McHattie struck the bar from distance but that was as close as Brechin came.
And Scott added: “It’s a bit gut-wrenching just now but hopefully we can dig in at training this week and turn it around.
“I’d fancy us to beat anyone at home. We have scored a lot of goals at home and play well on a big park.
“We’ll also have the backing of our fans. They have been magical all season in following us to places like Wick.
“It’s five or six hours away but they’ve still made the trip and hopefully we can give them what they want – the chance to see us back in League Two.”
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