Annan Athletic looking to get play-off bid back on track against Berwick Rangers

David Gormley netted the winner in the 2-1 victory last Saturday to earn a much-needed three points for Clyde.

The win was a reversal of Clyde’s recent history against Annan, having lost their past three encounters this season, and the surprising win for the Bully Wee could not have come at a worse time for Annan, who are currently in fourth place and in the final play-off spot.

Chapman believes a lack of maturity and mounting injury problems have cost his side, who are just about holding on to the final play-off spot in Scotland’s League Two.

“It was a disappointing result, the performance was good but the lack of maturity cost us,” said Chapman.

“I think we need to learn that sometimes we need to see games out, and it is definitely something that we can improve on.”

Chapman believes the depth of his squad can cope with their end-of-season run-in.

“The lads have been participating well, but we needed consistency with the team selection, any change has an impact but the defensive unit was significantly altered and it didn’t help,” said Chapman.

“However, it’s up to the other lads to take the opportunity presented to them, I’m confident that they can step-up when called upon.”

With Steven Swinglehurst suspended, other first-team players have picked up knocks.

“We’ve also lost Darren Ramsay and Rabin Omar, and I feel luck is deserting us at the moment with regards to injuries,” bemoaned the Galabankies manager.

Annan welcome Berwick Rangers today and Chapman knows that the game is by no means a formality.

“Berwick do have something to play for,” he admits.

“They’ll be desperate to get the points and they’re only six points from relegation and will be looking to secure their place in next season’s league.”

Should Annan win today and Stirling Albion and Montrose not pick up maximum points, Annan will tighten their grip on a play-off place.