IT is another major test for Largs Thistle this weekend as they face the might of league leaders Clydebank on Saturday at Barrfields Park.

Thistle are sitting in second spot in the GreenVersity West of Scotland Premier Division, and while it is far too early to talk of league deciders, there is little doubt that Largs will be determined to get all three points to hold on to Clydebank's coat tails to stop them building up an eight point lead at the top of the table.

Largs have caught the eye with their fast brand of attacking football and have already beaten Auchinleck at home this season with a 3-1 victory, and their second position placing has been down to persistence and hard work, with only one defeat in their opening 10 league games, with five wins and four draws.

And any slip up from Largs this Saturday will mean that they are in danger of losing second spot, which they have held on to for a month, as there is a tight pack of teams right behind them.

Drumchapel sit in third on the same points, with Largs ahead on the basis of goals scored with identical goal differences. Meanwhile, Johnstone Burgh and Troon are in fourth and fifth places with 18 points apiece, and Gartcairn are on 17 points.

Thistle can take heart from their impressive 3-2 win at Clydebank back in March courtesy of strikes from David Ramsay, Jamie Martin and Scott Adam, but have lost their last two Barrfields Park encounters to the Bankies which is something manager Stuart Davidson will be wanting to put right this weekend.

Thistle boss Stuart Davidson shaping up for big clash against Clydebank, and was all smiles after 3-2 win at Yoker in MarchThistle boss Stuart Davidson shaping up for big clash against Clydebank, and was all smiles after 3-2 win at Yoker in March (Image: Newsquest)

We have to rewind to season 2021-22 when Largs last beat Clydebank at home when Thistle ran out 3-0 winners that day to celebrate staying in the league after a phenomenal run of results. On the day, it was a double from Will Sewell and late goal from Cory Hughes that put a young Clydebank side to the sword.

Barrfields Park has become something of a fortress for Largs Thistle, with only one defeat in the past 14 games, and only two home defeats in all competitions in 2024, and Largs will be hoping that there will be a big turnout this weekend as it is the first competitive home game since October 12 when Largs ran out 5-0 winners over Caledonian Locomotives in the Scottish Cup.

Thistle now know their Scottish Cup opponents for the fourth round as they face a trip to Dundee on November 23 to play East Craigie.

It is Largs Thistle's Gentleman's Dinner on Saturday, November 9 at the Willowbank Hotel. Tam McManus and John Rowbotham are the guest speakers, with Drew Cochrane compering. Tickets are £40, and it is £350 for a table of 10. For more details, email largsthistlefc1889@gmail.co.uk.