Elgin City defender Mark Nicolson has top spot in League 2 in his sights ahead of today’s trip to Clyde.
City have moved to within a point of leaders Forfar Athletic and will leapfrog the Angus side with a victory at Broadwood if the Loons fail to defeat Stirling Albion.
The Black and Whites go into today’s game on the back of four straight victories and Nicolson is determined his side will show its title credentials against a Bully Wee team he also expects to be in contention.
The 28-year-old said: “Forfar started off really well with seven straight wins but they’ve gone off the boil a bit, so it’s been good to close the gap.
“We have played an extra game but have already got the points on board.
“Hopefully, after a win against Clyde we can go top of the league, but there is still a long way to go. After this game we will only be a third of the way through the season.
“We’re on a good run and are aiming to keep it going. It’s going to be difficult for any team against Clyde. They are a good side and will be pushing for promotion this season. It’s an important game at this early stage.”
Nicolson’s strong central defensive partnership with Darryl McHardy prompted former captain Jamie Duff to seek a move away from Borough Briggs, with the former Caley Thistle player joining Highland League club Brora Rangers this week.
Although disappointed Duff has moved, Nicolson is determined to keep his partnership with McHardy thriving, with City boasting the second best defensive record in League 2, having conceded 12 goals from 11 league games.
Nicolson added: “Jamie has been one of the players I’ve been closest with during my time here.
“He’s a great player and a great captain and professional. I’m sad to see him go but he wanted regular football, and fair play to him as nobody will grudge him looking for that.
“Me and Darryl have done quite well, we have one of the best defensive records in the league and hopefully we can keep that going with a clean sheet against Clyde.”