UNFLUSTERED Arbroath skipper Fraser Burnett has backed his team to finally shake off the cobwebs and launch their quest for Eastern Premiership glory.

Burnett's boys have made a wretched start to the campaign and face one of their toughest tests thus far when they take on Grange at Lochlands today.

But the captain stressed he is utterly confident they will earn a change in fortunes.

Burnett said: "Yes, it is always hard against Grange but we need to make things right and get our season going.

"I am very upbeat about our chances and I am sure the guys will rise to the occasion."

Arbroath are still hindered by the absence of ankle-injury victim Ross McLean, however Burnett said he should be back in the fray next weekend.

Also missing today is Matthew Hurst, so Euan Small comes into the squad.

Forfarshire were dealt a reality check at the hands of Grange last time out and today they bid to get back on tracks on home turf against a rejuvenated Heriot's outfit.

The capital men suffered a string of defeats at the start of the term, but bounced back strongly to crush Aberdeenshire.

And in terms of momentum, home skipper Craig Wallace knows his men will have to improve in all areas.

Carlton - reeling from losses to Stoneywood Dyce and Watsonians - will be boosted by the return of Scotland star Preston Mommsen for the tussle with Aberdeenshire at Grange Loan.


Clearly missing the leadership and infield skills of Cedric English, Carlton have struggled to live up to their status as SNCL champions.

But the presence of Mommsen as a specialist all-rounder is sure to add power in every respect.

Stoneywood Dyce have emerged as the surprise packages of the competition, with out of favour Scotland ace Jan Stander in prime form.

But today they are sure to be tested to the full when they go into battle with Watsonians, whose batting line-up has tremendous depth.

Pro Jean Symes is adapting nicely to Scottish conditions and he will be keen to carry on at Peoples Park where he left off while playing for the Saltires in the rain-ruined clash with Surrey at the Oval on Tuesday.