Published: Friday, 29th August, 2008 12:30
Vale tackle 'reds'
By David Knox
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BAD BOYS Vale will be fully stretched tomorrow as they attempt to steal their first points of the season.
Boss Lindsay Rathie is expected to be banished to the stands following his red card last Saturday.
Players Ray Fleming and Chris Graham will also be suspended for the league game against Leith Athletic following their dismissals against Gala Fairydean.
The Victoria Park side have been dealt four red cards in their opening two league games – and the players have now been warned to tame their tempers.
Rathie, who was ordered from the dugout during the Fairydean match for comments made to referee Michael Scott, told the Peeblesshire News: “We have all sat down and discussed what happened and the problems with our discipline.
“We have pressed the self-destruct button during both of our league games and ended up with no points and suspensions. It isn’t good enough and we have to sort ourselves out.”
Vale will also be without co-manager Robbie Clark, goalkeeper Mark Wilson as well as injured pair Andy Martin and Frankie Harrison for the must-win match tomorrow.
But Rathie feels his remaining players will be good enough for the win, and he welcomes back Aaron Somerville and Ryan McManus from their holidays.
He added: “There are eight players missing but we have enough cover for a decent starting 11 and a substitute or two.
“It is imperative that we get our season started.”
Peebles are also looking for a change in fortunes after conceding eight goals in their opening league game at Dalbeattie on Saturday.
Gary French’s side host Heriot-Watt University for an Alex Jack Cup clash tomorrow.
But the manager isn’t predicting any quick remedies – and has even taken a swipe at the lack of support he’s encountered from local players. French said: “The response we’ve had from local senior players has been poor and we are suffering because of this.
“Peebles Rovers were in a similar predicament 25 years ago and the club almost went out of business.
“We are doing our best to attract players to the club and keeping spirits high.”
Midfielder Richard Smith and centre half Callum Stewart are poised to join the Whitestone Park side.
But French will be without Ross Glass and Davie Johnstone for tomorrow’s first round match.
Both Peebles’ cup game at Whitestone Park and Vale’s home game against Leith Athletic kick off at 2.30pm.
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