Tayport defending unbeaten home run against Kennoway

Neither Tayport nor Kennoway Star Hearts, who clash at the Canniepairt, can afford to drop points.

That particularly applies to Port who trail their second-placed visitors by 12 points but have played three more games.

As they defend an unbeaten home record, the suspended Stuart Walton is Tayport’s only absentee.

The visitors let a three-goal lead slip last week when pegged back by Haddington and welcome back central defender Nathan Doig

In addition the experienced trio of Kevin Byers, Gav Gray and Craig Johnston all return.

Leaders Forfar West End travel to Arniston Rangers and are again without long-term casualties Liam Godfrey and Mathew Reynolds, while Connor Ireland is doubtful.

Meanwhile, West End have released goalkeeper Gary Grant and defender Michael Bell.

More of the same after their win at St Andrews a fortnight ago will do Glenrothes player-boss John Martin nicely when they welcome Tranent.

With the same squad available, Martin’s men are likely to be along the same lines.

Violet’s hopes of picking up only their third Premier League appear slim against visitors Sauchie who have lost only once this season and are also in the last eight of the Scottish Cup.

The Pansies are without Barry Wilson, Gavin Hood and Kevin Scott.

Meanwhile Downfield have a highly attractive DJ Laing East of Scotland tie with the visit of Bonnyrigg Rose.

The pair met last season with the Lothian side edging through 2-1.

Though a North league side then, the Spiders still have it all to do against the only Super League side realistically in with a shout of depriving Kelty of the title and who have also reached the quarter finals of the Scottish.

Mark Bannon is ruled out with a knee injury, while Robert Smith and Ross Gallagher are cup-tied and James Thompson is on holiday.

The winners are away to Carnoustie in the third round.

St Andrews take a breather from their fight to retain Premier status with a trip to Musselburgh Athletic in the same competition.

Rory Mooney, Scott Mayne, Scott Orrock, Jason Quinn, Derek Wallace and Ben Anthony are all cup-tied while Ryan McInnes is injured.