East of Scotland First Division

Chris Anderson remains firmly behind his players despite a lacklustre showing last weekend.

Vale went down 4-0 to league leaders BSC Glasgow, conceding two goals inside the first three minutes.

But the manager is steadfast in his belief that everyone at the club is devoted to the cause. He believes they will show that today and win a place in the last eight of the South Challenge Cup.

He said: “I would like to say that whilst last weeks performance wasn’t anywhere near the level we can reach, I would never question the effort or commitment of any player or staff member.

“We always give our best and the commitment the players show on a weekly basis is fantastic.

“No matter where you go supporters will always have a go when the team is getting beat but nobody wants to bring success to Vale of Leithen more than myself and my staff.”

There was controversy the last time Upper Annandale visited Innerleithen, with the referee ruling the pitch unplayable despite the protestations of both clubs.

“We welcome Upper Annandale to Victoria Park for the second time this season. Hopefully this time the game will go ahead.

“After last weeks poor display I am confident the players will look to react and make sure we are in the Quarter Final of the South Challenge Cup”, added Anderson.
With a nightmarish injury list now looking to be in the past, Anderson believes that there is now a healthy competition within the squad for a place in the team. He hopes for a positive response which can only help his cause.
“The squad is bigger now than ever and we have players who are slowly gaining full fitness.
“I am a believer that competition for places is a must and the players will need to respond well to keep their place in the team as we have a number of players desperate for a place in the starting 11.
“It’s also important to remember that whoever gets the chance to start the game they should be more than capable of delivering a performance.”