QUEEN OF THE SOUTH boss Kenny Brannigan says a combination of cash cuts and a crippling injury list have left his side's title hopes in tatters. REPORTS .. Daily Record
They have just nine top-team players available for tonight's game and will have to use more youngsters who are not ready for first-team action.
Brannigan said: "It's been very difficult. We went with a small squad because of the budget I was given but it's been a nightmare with injury problems.
"I'm having to call up kids and going to a place like Cowdenbeath will be very tough for them."
Beath boss Jimmy Nicholl insists his side haven't given up hope of beating the drop - despite being in the play-off zone and only four points ahead of bottom side Stirling Albion.
He said: "I keep saying to the lads to give me a bit of hope in our performances and against Falkirk at the weekend I saw that. We lost 2-0 but the spirit shown gave us hope we can steer clear of trouble."