Table-topping Forfar will look to bounce back from their 3-2 defeat at Berwick Rangers last weekend and complete a set of League 2 wins by defeating visitors Montrose today.
Station Park manager Gary Bollan said: “Montrose have been a thorn in our side twice already this season.
“They beat us 3-1 at our place in our first meeting back in October and whilst I do not believe that was a fair reflection of the game, it was the result.
“We had to come back from a goal down to draw 1-1 at Links Park the following month so we know we are facing a difficult task to get the win.”
A victory would mark a milestone in Forfar’s campaign as Bollan explained: “They are the only side we have not beaten in the league this season so there is an extra incentive there as well.
“Stewart Petrie has done really well since going in there as manager and they have climbed the table after earning good results under him.
“It will be a tough game but if we play like we can for the entire game, then we have a chance.”
Eddie Malone is serving the final game of a three-match ban with Danny Denholm missing out after his dismissal last weekend. Former Queen’s Park striker Aiden Malone who was used as trialist substitute last weekend is included again.
Meanwhile, Montrose boss Petrie insists he is relishing his return to Station Park for the first time since he left the club at the end of 2015.
The 46-year-old had been on Dick Campbell’s coaching staff before the veteran manager was sacked after seven years in charge.
Petrie was appointed caretaker boss and made no secret that he wanted the job on a permanent basis.
However, after just one game at the helm, the Loons board opted instead for Bollan with Petrie leaving the club.
He insists though that there are no hard feelings and he is only concentrating on helping his Montrose side win three points and the bragging rights over their Angus neighbours.
He said: “We were delighted to pick up a point last week against Edinburgh City but we now face an incredibly-tough game at the home of the league leaders Forfar.
“It will be my first time back there and I am really looking forward to the game and catching up with some familiar faces afterwards such as the chairman Alastair Donald and David McGregor.
“I have some great memories of my time there and I cannot speak highly enough of the club.
“There will be no extra incentive as such from me. I was just grateful that Dick Campbell brought me in to work with him and a coaching team that came close to helping Forfar win promotion to the Championship two years ago.
“However, it is all about Montrose for me now. We have done reasonably well in the derbies so far this season and have already won at Station Park when Paul Hegarty was in charge so hopefully we can dig out another result this time round.”
Kieran McWalter returns from suspension for the Gable Endies.
