Stirling Albion hope for vital away points on trip to Cove as League One survival fight rages on

Banishing the away-day blues could prove more important than ever for Stirling Albion as they vie for vital points on the road at Cove Rangers in their fight for League One survival.

Only 13 of the Binos’ 34 points this season have come on the road, but they make the long trip north to the Balmoral Stadium riding on a wave of confidence after their injury time win over Montrose last weekend.

Stirling have yet to taste victory in the sides’ four meetings this season across the league and Scottish Cup, but the matches have usually brought goals – including a pair of 2-2 draws at Forthbank.

The teams’ only meeting in Aberdeen this season saw Cove run out comfortable 3-1 winners during the most difficult part of Albion’s season – and manager Darren Young should have a larger squad to pick from on this occasion.

It will include the return of on-loan Hibs youngster Rudi Molotnikov, who should return to the matchday squad following his return from international duty with the Scotland under-19 side.

The man to watch from the hosts is undoubtedly forward Rumarn Burrell, who will be on the hunt for his 20th goal of a prolific campaign on Sunday – including a hat-trick on the Binos’ last trip to the Balmoral Stadium.

The hosts do come into the game off a run of three straight home defeats on league business, including a pair of bruising loss to Montrose and Hamilton, 4-1 and 3-1 respectively.

With just six matches remaining in the campaign, every match is a critical one at both ends of the table – with Stirling aiming to keep a surging Annan and struggling Queen of the South behind them in the race to avoid the relegation play-off spot.

Both sides racked up wins last week and Stirling will be hoping to keep the breathing room –