Greenock Morton v Airdrieonians preview
2nd January 2015
Bryan Prunty has his 100th career goal in his sights - and he's gunning for Morton as Airdrie aim to continue their good form into 2015.
The striker was denied his ton - and a hat-trick - by the woodwork last Saturday as his late effort came back off the crossbar, having already scored twice in a 3-0 victory over the Honest Men.
But despite finishing the year strongly, Prunty knows that the Diamonds will have their work cut out against a Morton side who are unbeaten in three meetings between the sides this season.
"The month of December was very encouraging as we managed to follow up decent performances with getting points on the board which left us four games unbeaten.
"This has given us massive confidence going to face Morton who we've not managed a result against so far".
Confidence is one thing that won't be short in the Airdrie squad with two wins and two draws in their last four games, and experienced hitman Prunty - who turns 32 this month - has found his shooting boots at the right time.
"It's great to be hitting the back of the net as a striker, as this gives you confidence and I'm hoping I can continue to play as much as I can - which will hopefully give me the opportunity to get some more goals in the bag".
One more goal will see fans' favourite Prunty hit a career century, a total which has been carved out at Aberdeen, Inverness, Ayr, Alloa and Dumbarton as well as two spells in the Diamond.
But the local lad is quick to point out that a Diamonds win matters more than personal glory.
"The thought of getting 100 career goals is something I'm extremely excited about and if I can manage to get it on Saturday then absolutely fantastic from a personal point of view.
"But I'd sacrifice not scoring if it meant we had secured three points, which is of course a lot more important than me achieving this".
With results stacking up and morale high in the camp, fans will be reminded of last season's post new-year recovery, which saw Gary Bollan's men transformed from relegation favourites to a side playing with confidence and swagger - and narrowly missing out on a promotion play-off place.
Prunty has a message for the Diamonds faithful.
"I'd like to wish each and every Airdrieonian all the very best for 2015 and thank them all for their continued support both for the team and myself.
"I've had an unbelievable amount of positive messages since returning to Airdrie and I thank them all for this".
The Diamonds go into Saturday's match boosted by the news that Luca Gasparotto's loan contract has been extended until the end of the season.
Morton's own loan star - top league scorer Declan McManus - will play his last game for the Cappielow club before returning to Aberdeen. Ex-Diamonds Stefan Milojević and Ricki Lamie may also feature in Jim Duffy's plans.
Referee Nick Walsh will officiate the season's fourth meeting between the clubs.