Manager Peter Murphy admits he is delighted to have competition for places at Annan Athletic, ahead of today’s Scottish Cup second-round replay at Brechin City.

The Galabankies face a 356-mile round trip for this afternoon’s match at Glebe Park (3pm kick-off).

It will be the second weekend in succession where the two teams have locked horns after Athletic surrendered a two-goal lead as the visitors fought back, earning a 2-2 draw at Galabank last Saturday.

Striker Tommy Muir scored twice in the first period but, after the restart, Brechin hit back. Player-assistant Darren Barr put through his own net, before the visitors equalised five minutes from time through Paul McManus to set-up the replay.

Despite their performance in the second period as Annan let their two-goal lead slip, Murphy was, nevertheless, pleased with some respects of his side’s display.

He said: "We played some excellent football. Our passing was great and the players really trusted each other on the ball.

"Tommy Muir scored twice after getting his first goal of the season against Queen’s Park, which was great, and Lewis McLear won us the penalty.

"We probably just needed to manage the game a bit better."

Athletic have also bolstered their ranks recently, with experienced goalkeeper Chris Smith and former loan winger Nathan Flanagan both signing for the club.

“With Nathan, he is one I have been chasing for a long time and, with Chris, I know what he has to offer,” said Murphy.

“He has played a lot of games in the Scottish Football League. We have him signed up until January now which we are delighted about.”

And Murphy is thrilled to see everyone in his squad fighting for first-team places.

The 38-year-old said: “Steve Swinglehurst has been out of the team recently and was on the bench last weekend.

"Darren Barr has come in. I, initially, brought him into be my assistant – not necessarily to play! But he has done well.

"Everyone is fighting for a spot in the side, which is healthy.”

Loan keeper Kelby Mason and Broque Watson are both doubts, although Murphy expects the latter to be fit enough to feature against Brechin.

The winner of the replay will face Edinburgh City.