Conference C

Ayr officials last night ruled out any chance of former World Cup keeper Andy Goram donning white flannels this afternoon.

But even without Scotland's most controversial sportsman, this afternoon's clash with Ferguslie will have plenty of excitement.

Ayr official Ian Masterton probably understated the undercurrent of bad feeling between the rival camps when he predicted: ''It will be a difficult one to umpire.''

Relations hit an all-time low following an ill-tempered match two years ago when an Ayr player was controversially run-out.

The rivalry continued last season with a spate of sledging by both teams.

Masterton added: ''Ferguslie aren't known for their on-field manners, but Ayr have been bad in the past as well.''

Ferguslie captain Stuart Kennedy said: ''There will be plenty of fire and brimstone.

Apparently they have an extra grudge against us this time because they think we voted their second eleven into the lowest feeder league.''

Masterton added: ''We've been in pretty good form with our overseas pro Kevin Roberts hitting form right away.''

Kennedy hasn't had the same fortune with his Australian Mike Hussey, who is still adjusting to slow Scottish wickets.

The Meikleriggs captain stated: ''We've bowled the opposition out in all four games so far. Once we get our batting sorted out, I'm confident we'll be a force.''

Freuchie, still smarting from criticism following last week's collapse at Arbroath, have the chance to answer their critics at home to high-flying Aberdeenshire.

Greenock skipper Kenny Godsman wants his players to chalk up their first win at Edinburgh Accies who are also looking to break their duck, while struggling Stirling host in-form Arbroath and Clydesdale visit Prestwick.