VALE of Leithen gaffer Chris Anderson says he can’t wait to get back into competitive action.

The Lowland League season kicks off this weekend – with the Innerleithen side facing a trip to the capital to play Gary Jardine’s Civil Service Strollers.

Anderson has strengthened his squad, by bringing in a number of new signings, including Paul Dickson, Taylor Black, David Bonnar, Scott Wilson, Ryan Currie, Marc Berry, Brad Raiker (who was on loan last season from Spartans), and player-coach Ger Rossi from Peebles Rovers.

And he is looking forward the challenge that awaits.

He told us: “We have managed to sign a few new players over the last month or so, so we are looking stronger now.

“We have had a good pre-season, but that doesn’t count for too much.

“Pre-season is mainly about fitness, so we are really looking forward to getting back into it on Saturday.”

Kick off at Christie Gillies Park is at 3pm.

Elsewhere, Gala Fairydean Rovers will host last season’s Lowland League Cup champions Cumbernauld Colts and Selkirk will visit K-Park to play Brian Kerr’s East Kilbride.

Gala boss Dean Shanks says he knows his side faces a tough match, but is confident after the way his team played during pre-season.

He said: “Pre-season has gone very well for us and we are happy with the squad we have.

“We have managed to bring in some very good players so hopefully we can have a good season.

“We want to give the many folk who come to watch us a reason to get excited and enjoy coming to Netherdale.

“Cumbernauld will be a big test for us.

“However it is nice to have the game at home.

“They are a good side and they obviously had a good cup win at the end of last season.

“I think the game will be a good indicator to see where we actually are.

“But I am sure that if we perform well, we can have a good go.”

It has been all change at Selkirk recently.

But new boss Terry Ferguson also says his side can’t wait to get back into competitive action.

He told us: “We know East Kilbride have quality in abundance, so it is our job to go and make it difficult for them.

“If you can’t get excited for these games, you shouldn’t be in football.

“We are definitely a work in progress – we have a new squad.

“It has been a rebuilding job, but everyone is looking forward to get going again.”