First Team
Matchday Preview: Bonnyrigg Rose - 13/10/20
12th October 2020
Caledonian Braves kick off their 2020/21 season with a trip to Bonnyrigg Rose tomorrow evening. Last season's league runners up are certain to provide a stern test.
Braves return to competitive action for the first time since March when they take on the Rose - who sit top of the Lowland League after their opening day win away to Gala Fairydean Rovers.
Having been the Lowland League’s idle side on Saturday, Ricky Waddell’s side will finally take to the pitch under the lights at New Dundas Park - kick off is 7:45pm.
Rose, managed by Robbie Horn, have been in impressive form during pre-season. Their unbeaten run included victories over Broxburn Athletic, Camelon Juniors, Penicuik Athletic and Whitehill Welfare and a draw with Musselburgh Athletic.
Last season, which saw the clubs meet competitively for the first time, both matches finished in favour of the Midlothian side. An early season contest saw them win 3-0 at New Dundas Park. In February, a weather affected game at Alliance Park ended 3-2, with David Sinclair scoring both of Braves' goals.
Heading into the match, Bonnyrigg Rose have added Dean Hoskins to their pool, with the defender returning to their club from Spartans. Ewan Moyes misses out due to work commitments and the recent birth of his first child.
Braves have a number of of injury doubts, but only one confirmed absentee, with new signing Ahmed Bouchentouf still self isolating and unavailable. Summer acquisitions Andy Dowie, Gavin Lachlan, Jack Watson, Jack Smith, Jamie Walker and Scott Forrester are all in the frame to make their debuts.
Everyone at the club wishes Ricky and the squad the very best of luck.