HE'S no spring chicken himself and perhaps that's why John Fallon has urged his Thorniewood United team-mates to look to "old heads" Kevin O'Neil and Anton Franchetti for inspiration over the coming weeks.

Skipper Fallon insists it is no coincidence that the duo's reappearance in the backline against Maryhill helped United claim three points for the first time this season.

And he is banking on them to provide a further morale- boost as his side attempt to get their season well and truly back on track this weekend at Robertson Park.

There, they will face another would-be Central First Division promotion contender in the shape of Cambuslang Rangers.

The striker said: "Kevin and Anton made a huge difference to us on the back of the heavy losses to Glasgow Perthshire and Shotts Bon Accord.

"Players of their experience know when to play the ball out of defence and when to put their foot through it.

"But arguably their biggest contribution was in talking our younger players through various situations that cropped up.

"They have a steadying influence that has undoubtedly rubbed off on the guys around them, so much so that you can sense an air of renewed confidence throughout our dressing room.

"That, added to the fact a few of our injured players are further down the recovery trail, means everyone is really up for the Cambuslang game."

Among those referred to by Fallon are last season's player of the year Stuart McCormick, who is back in contention along with striker Stephen Mullen and stopper Kieron McGuinness.

"It's a blessing to be near enough back to full strength," admitted Fallon, whose father (also John) is the Lanarkshire outfit's team manager.

"But there's no doubt Cambuslang will be a tough proposition for us and fired up after losing out to St Anthony's last weekend."

Lining up in opposition to Maryhill was a baptism of fire for 37-year-old former Pollok stalwart O'Neil, not least because he had been the Lochburn Park gaffer as recently as last season.

He said: "It was a whole new ball game putting myself on the line as a player after having been a manager, and a Maryhill one at that.

"But I've not put pen to paper yet for Thorniewood because I want to see whether I can derive as much enjoyment from the playing side of things as before."

Meantime, several clubs have officially enquired about two high-profile Junior players who are currently transfer-listed - Tom Hanlon (Lanark United) and Allan Waddell (Pollok).

Lok boss Rab Sneddon may have the funds to make an approach for Hanlon after allowing Brian Wardle and Brian Mackay to join Rob Roy, although Arthurlie boss Mark Cameron is also an admirer of the versatile star.

And if, as expected, Waddell joins one of the three clubs pursuing his signature - Kilbirnie Ladeside, Bellshill Athletic and Rob Roy - then there is every likelihood of Sneddon snapping up one of his former charges, Irvine Meadow's Paul Hyslop.

Elsewhere, Kilwinning Rangers, who have added striker Gavin Brown to their ranks from Hurlford United, have revealed plans to commemorate the 10th anniversary of their 1999 Scottish Junior Cup victory.

A glamour game has been arranged for Sunday, October 18 at 12.30pm, which will pit the Buffs' cup-winning side against an Auchinleck Talbot All Stars XI.