With Brechin on an incredible 11-game unbeaten run and today’s opponents Ayr United without a win in 10, on paper there should only be one winner.
However, Glebe gaffer Ray McKinnon is certainly not taking anything for granted against the Honest Men who are sitting second bottom of League One.
That’s despite the fact his side won comfortably last week at the home of their Angus rivals and former league leaders Forfar.
Instead, McKinnon is wary of the “new manager bounce” that Ayr could receive following the appointment earlier this week of Ian McCall as Somerset Park boss.
McKinnon said: “I was delighted with the win last week but was also equally pleased with the clean sheet which will boost our goal difference.
“We defended really well and they hardly had any chances at all.
“We have lost a few goals late in games this season so it was great that the lads concentrated for the full 90 minutes.
“They pressed the ball and didn’t give Forfar a moment’s peace.
“They now have to maintain that consistency and mentality.
He added: “We will start as favourites against Ayr but I believe league position doesn’t matter in this game as their players will be looking to impress their new manager.
“I am sure his chairman will be backing him in this window and they will be bringing a few in.
“However, we are in a fine run of form at the moment. We are 11 games unbeaten and I really feel we could have won every one of them.
“The boys are in confident mood. We had a friendly with Montrose earlier in the week when I gave game time to lads who have not been playing for the first team and we were 4-0 up after 70 minutes.
“The performance confirmed what I already knew, that I have a really good squad when everyone is fit.
“I also sense a real hunger in training.
“There is a really quick tempo, which I like, and we will look to take that confidence into the game against Ayr.”
McKinnon has a full squad to choose from with the exception of long-term injury victim Callum Tapping.