Boss buddies in South Division clash

Dec 1 2011 by Kieran Westbrook, West Lothian Courier

WEST CALDER UNITED boss Richard Hastings and Livingston United counterpart Andy Johnstone may be best of friends but they will be worst of enemies when their sides clash this Saturday.

The two men, who have been pals off the field for years, will be looking for their side to wipe a smile off their opposite number’s face as they meet in the South Division.

And Livi United boss Andy Johnstone reckons both sides are on fire at the moment.

He said: “West Calder have really hit some form recently and they’ve got their tails up at the moment.

“They won’t be easy to play, but they’ll feel the same about us.

“Some of the teams above us are playing each other at the weekend, so it’s a chance for us to make up some ground and move up the table.”

Livi United were without a match last weekend as adverse weather led to their clash with Blackburn being postponed.

And, after the match was called off, Johnstone was quickly working on striking a deal to lure Gary Cunningham to Station Park.

The defender has joined United after being transfer-listed by Fauldhouse United.

Cunningham worked under Johnstone at Stoneyburn and his glad to have him back in his team.

He said: “He’s a good signing for us and I know what to expect from him.

“He’ll be available for Saturday.”

West Calder look to extend their winning streak to five games after seeing off Edinburgh United with a 2-1 win.

Calder’s Kenny Park fired home a double to move them up to 10th as the capital side suffered their ninth league loss in 11 games.

Hastings admits he is delighted his side have hit form.

He said: “We’re playing well and getting some good results after a pretty poor start.

“Hopefully we can extend our streak to five, but I reckon Andy [Johnstone] will be looking to put a stop to that!”

Both sides are set to meet on Saturday at Station Park.

l Livi United’s hotly anticipated meeting with Blackburn was one of half a dozen West Lothian junior sides’ matches forced off by wintry weather.

Stoneyburn’s clash with Spartans was also postponed.

The Rose’s trip to Hawthorn was also put on hold while Broxburn and Whitburn’s cup ties failed pitch inspections.