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Aberdeenshire already look a good bet to win the first SNCL Premiership title, having won five of their six completed games, but, as last weekend's results demonstrated, they are vulnerable.

Ayr's triumph over them in the Scottish Cup at Mannofield on Sunday, hard on the heels of the previous day's convincing win by Aberdeenshire at New Cambusdoon, posed a few questions about the leaders' strength in depth.

The absence of Kevin Thomson, whose hand injury is likely to keep him out of action for a few weeks, leaves Aberdeenshire's attack looking threadbare and tomorrow's visit to Hamilton Crescent could, temporarily at least, halt the Mannofield men's charge towards the title.

West of Scotland, having started the season slowly, are running into form at the right time. Last week's last-gasp win over Greenock has elevated them to second place and, furthermore, several key players are on song, albeit that Corey Richards, in recent weeks, has not found runs easy to come by. However, a return to the form that has seen him pass the 500-run mark for the season, could pose a major threat to the leaders.

Craig Wright has been in trim with both bat and ball, Gregor Maiden is also beginning to take wickets and Mark Gilchrist, with his slow swingers, continues to perplex most batsmen.

But Aberdeenshire's trump card could be Jason Arnberger. Not only has he been in good form with the bat but he also knows Hamilton Crescent, where he served West well for several seasons. And he, more than most, may be able to fathom the mystery of Gilchrist's bowling. A win for West would certainly open up the title race.

Ayr can get back on track with another home fixture, against old rivals Greenock. The Glenpark side are capable of springing a surprise if Dene Hills gets among the runs but their late-order batting is fragile and Ayr will start as favourites tomorrow.

Third-placed Carlton will expect to maintain their challenge at home to Grange. The Raeburn Place side have recovered after a dreadful start to the season but there are perhaps too many question marks about their bowling attack.

Ferguslie are likely to receive cold comfort at People's Park. Tomorrow's clash with Stoneywood Dyce is a real relegation battle and a loss for either side would be critical. Heriot's and West Lothian are not out of the woods either, so their meeting at Goldenacre is also significant.

Arbroath are proving to be the surprise packets of the first division promotion race and they should advance their cause further tomorrow at Perthshire's expense. Leaders Prestwick at Forthill, challengers Strathmore, at Watsonians, and Clydesdale at Freuchie will have their promotion credentials tested.

Stenhousemuir will expect to maintain their drive for first division cricket next season at home to Edinburgh Accies.