Ayr United manager warns of complacency

Mar 6 2009 by Mike Wilson

BRIAN REID has warned Ayr United there is no room for complacency in their surge towards the title.

And he says back to back home games against bottom two Queen’s Park and Stranraer will only go to script if they show the correct attitude.

Ayr beat Queen’s 3-0 at Hampden on Saturday and had the chance to reclaim top spot when they were due to face the same team at Somerset on Wednesday evening.

But boss Reid stresses both games won’t be the formality that some fans are predicting. He revealed: “I told the players at training on Monday night that I expect the second game against Queen’s to be tougher.

“And while Stranraer are bottom, they only lost to Peterhead with a late goal and also troubled Raith at Kirkcaldy. We only have to remember that we went to Alloa confident that we would win and lost, albeit with a controversial decision.

“But we have a good home record and if we apply ourselves we should be well capable of winning both. However, we need to be switched on and can’t just turn up expecting to win.”

Controversial former Ayr striker Michael Moore has joined Stranraer on loan from Dumbarton. And the struggling Blues have also snapped up skipper Chris Aitken’s brother Stephen on loan from Arthurlie.

Reid has appealed for fans to roll up and roar his team over the title finishing line. He said: “The supporters have been tremendous and there was a great backing at Hampden which makes a big difference.

“I hope we get a big turnout for the home double and if fans can bring a pal or two with them, it will really help.”

A worry for Ayr is that a number of players are walking a suspension tightrope. Reid said: “We have a few who are only a booking away from a ban and it concerns me what happens if two or three get booked at the same time.”

The chase to sign an experienced defender on an emergency loan is gathering pace and there could be a development within the next few days.

Willie Easton is Ayr’s only definite absentee and could miss another two or three games with hamstring trouble. Neil McGowan came off early at Hampden with a groin knock but is OK.

Alex Williams is back in training after being sidelined with an ankle injury but his lack of match practice is the only concern.