Cautious Forfarshire president Rae McLelland last night firmly dismissed the notion that his team's jaunt to face Stirling County will be a "points in the bag" scenario.

The length of the SNCL Premiership separates the sides, however McLelland insisted the hosts are capable of providing as big a test for Ryan Watson and Co as any other club in the division.

He declared: "Some people might think we will be clear favourites to win this one and step up our challenge - but I am not one of them.

"A lot of funny things have happened this season and we know we will have to perform to the best of our ability to get the result we want.

"There has been so much disruption to the competition because of the weather in May and June and I really don't think the current placings accurately reflect the ability of some of the teams.

"County my appear to be struggling, but we are fully aware that they have players who are good enough to tilt a contest in their favour - especially on their own patch.

"Our guys will be going to New Williamfield with a cautious approach, knowing they will have to work for a win.

"There is no doubt in my mind that this is a potential banana skin situation and we will have to be on our guard."

McLelland confirmed that the Forfarshire selection is along the usual lines.

On the subject of banana skins, Arbroath will not need reminding of last season when Drumpellier pulled off a smash and grab act at Lochlands.

That bitter memory will certainly be enough to keep the Lichties on their toes this afternoon.

It is another match in which there appears to be an overwhelming favourite, however Drumps have shown on occasions that they can shock the so-called form teams.

Both Dunfermline Knights and Clydesdale have had roller-coaster fortunes in the campaign thus far - so it makes for a fascinating duel at Titwood.

The atmosphere was decidedly sour when the teams clashed a year ago, so let's hope the players focus on the positives of cricket rather than any personality issues.

Falkland and Freuchie may not have been setting the heather on fire in the Championship.

But that fact won't dilute the sense of occasion and depth of traditional rivalry when the Fife derby takes place at Scroggie Park.

Home advantage might just tell in favour of Falkland, but nothing would give Freuchie skipper David Cowan more pleasure than claiming that particular scalp on enemy territory.