Arbroath’s management duo of Dick Campbell and his brother Ian are determined that the impact of their appointment last month will be seen by closing out the season with two wins, starting against Montrose today.
The Campbells ensured that the Gayfield men would not be involved in a play-off to keep hold of their senior status with successes over East Stirling and Clyde, however three consecutive defeats have halted progress.
Assistant manager Ian Campbell said: “The manager and I have really enjoyed being back in charge of a team.
“Everything has been going well in terms of improving things apart from the most desired part – getting consistent results. We have been playing well but just not getting any joy in terms of wins recently.
“We have found a good performance level and know we need to turn that into wins. This would be a terrific game to do that in.”
Campbell added: “There is a lot of local pride at stake and there is also the chance to move back above Montrose in the table.
“We know a good bit about their team as Chris Templeman was a striker at Forfar with us for a long time and of course we know their management team of Paul Hegarty and John Holt well.”
On-loan Dundee striker Josh Skelly misses out with a knock.
Meanwhile, Montrose boss Hegarty admits that while the derby at Gayfield is on a much smaller scale than the one between Celtic and Rangers, it means just as much to fans of the two Angus clubs.
The Red Lichties secured the bragging rights the last time the sides met at Links Park on January 2 but the Gable Endies manager, who goes head to head with his old friend Campbell, insists revenge is not the priority today.
He said: “Every derby between Montrose and Arbroath is an important one and we know it means as much to the fans as it does to Celtic and Rangers supporters when their teams meet, albeit on a smaller scale.
“We are determined to take three points but I know my old friend Dick Campbell will be out to do the same.
“We have met up on numerous occasions over the years when we were playing and as coaches.
“At the age we are at, it is important that you still have that desire and the fire in the stomach, otherwise, it is time to think about retiring.
“I know Dick will be determined to finish the season with a couple of victories before planning for the next campaign and a possible promotion push.
“We are the same though and we are also looking to finish on a high. Revenge doesn’t really come into it.”
Adam Harwood is a doubt for Montrose after picking up a foot injury last week.
