The last fortnight’s results mean that the middle third of the Thistle Sports Grades season will be more than usually critical this year.

While Bon Accord should carry too much firepower for Mannofield in the match between the two Links-based sides, Cults will be anxious not to lose any more ground, following two successive defeats, when they take on current league leaders Stonehaven at the Allan Park; while Caledonian will be looking for points at the foot of the table to move ahead of Inverurie and 2nd Cults in the battle to avoid struggling against relegation.

In Grade 2 leaders St Ronald will hope to continue their unblemished league run at home to Scottish Regional Villages Cup winners Methlick; while Gordonians could consolidate their challenge for promotion if they beat Artisans, and Grammar FPs slip up against an improving Queens Cross side.