AMBITIOUS Irvine Meadow this week paraded two new signings who are set to make their weekend debuts as they gear up for an expected promotion push.

Former Cumnock defender/midfielder William Wells signed up two weeks after ex-Saltcoats Victoria midfielder/ striker Joe Young came on board at Meadow Park.

The duo go straight into the squad for Saturday's home Super First Division clash with struggling Blantyre Victoria.

Co-manager Gareth Turner is delighted to have the new recruits on board and told Sportscene: "William caught our attention when he played against us for Maryhill when he was on loan there. He is big, strong and very quick. He can play in midfield or defence. Joe knows his way to goal and can play both upfront and in midfield - he can cover the ground well. I expect both to be key players for the rest of the season."

Turner is looking forward to the weekend game but cautioned: "Blantyre are struggling but have had some good results so we are taking absolutely nothing for granted. We are not looking too far ahead but are in a good position and if we pick up a few wins we will see where we are."

Turner held a successful meeting with supporters on Sunday, in which he outlined hopes of ultimately taking Meadow back to the top level of the game.

"It went well and fans had a chance to ask me, co-manager Michael Wardrope and coach Neil McGowan questions," he said.

Also off-the-field, fans heard that a new Team Development Fund is to take over from the 100 club with a new monthly prize of £50, fans paying £10 a month. Supporters will be given a share for every £50 they pay and it is hoped this will raise £10,000 a year for the club. Meadow also hope to secure financial support from fans abroad.

Meanwhile Kilwinning Rangers defender Barry Fleeting is hoping to see off former club Troon and ease their relegation fears.

The sides meet at Abbey Park on Saturday and Fleeting said: "It's a really big game for both clubs. We will take confidence from our Scottish Cup win against Kelty Hearts and are looking to take three points. We lost to Troon at Portland Park but deserved to take something from the game."

Irvine Victoria on Saturday face a crunch clash away to Rutherglen Glencairn and manager Stevie Wilson said: "There's no point going there for a draw, we must look to win, we need victories."