THE clubs in the bottom half of the league certainly have not been

dragging their feet when it comes to ground improvements. Stranraer, for

example, will hansel a #1m, 2800-seater stand today for the home game

against nearest neighbours Queen of the South.

Only four points off a promotion place and unbeaten at Stair Park,

Stranraer will hope to make progress up the table this afternoon, even

allowing for the local derby nature of this contest.

Manager Alex McAnespie has agreed to listen to offers for want-away

pair, striker Billy Ferguson and midfielder Tommy Callaghan, and

probably would welcome a swop deal in order to maintain his overall

playing strength. If, instead, money comes into the club, he will renew

interest in Clydebank defender Derek Crawford. It is not a case of a

totally happy house either for Queens, whose unsettled midfielder Andy

McFarlane has refused to sign any more month-to-month deals for Billy

McLaren.

Berwick are in second place but, if home manager Tom Hendrie is to be

believed, Clyde may be an excellent away bet when they visit Shielfield.

Hendrie has eight senior players on the injured list, including his

entire defence.

Meanwhile, leaders East Fife visit winless Montrose and are likely to

ensure that keeper Dave Larter's 350th appearance for the Angus team is

not at all comfortable.

Stirling will attempt to put Challenge Cup winners Stenhousemuir in

their place when they meet at Forthbank, while Ayr will attempt to

maintain their decent away record and move off second-bottom place by

winning at Forfar.

Third division leaders Livingston will at last play at their new home,

Almondvale Stadium, when they entertain East Stirlingshire, although the

official opening will remain next week's home match with Cowdenbeath.

The 'Shire may be bottom of the division but they are capable of being

party-poopers this afternoon.

Dingwall should stage the match of the day in the basement when Ross

County play host to Brechin City.