Says the manager, "All the boys are now looking forward to playing meaningful games. The training aspect has gone really well and the response and attitude from all our lads has been excellent. Especially the fitness levels.

"So, credit to them all!

"We kick-off at Raydale Park tomorrow night. I`ve been down at Gretna a few times and it`s a tight wee pitch but it does have a good playing surface and I feel that`s important for a starter."

Adds the manager, "Chris Higgins, formerly with Dunfermline, has agreed terms and will be joining us. He`s experienced, versatile and can play on three different areas on the left flank.

"We`ve still a lot of `trialists` on board at present. The numbers just now are fairly high but I want to ensure we get the ones that we want.

"None of our pre-season friendlies will be at Palmerston. I want to show a little compassion to Kevin our groundsman, so our first home game will be against Stranraer in the Scottish Communities Cup.

"Three of our opening league matches are away from home with Raith Rovers the only one at Palmerston. So it`s a tough old baptism. However we`ll just have to cope!"