George Grierson reckons a bumper crowd can be title-chasing Whitletts Victoria's 12th Man when they host league leaders Shotts tomorrow.
Just four points separate the WoSFL Conference A rivals ahead of a potential Christmas cracker at Dam Park – although Shotts have a game in hand.
And Grierson, boss of the Ayr outfit, reckons fans – both diehard and casual – can have a major part to play as his side look to lay down a real marker going into the festive break.
He said: "Any time we've had a bigger crowd this season it's made a difference. The players really respond to that level of support.
"This is a big game for us against a very strong, physical and well disciplined Shotts side and It would be fantastic to see a big turnout get right behind the boys.
"I know Ayr United are playing away from home this weekend so I'm sure there will be a few guys looking for an excuse to avoid going Christmas shopping with the wife!
"My message to them would be come down, enjoy the game and give us your support, it really would be very much appreciated."
Whitletts head into tomorrow's meeting on the back of a shock West of Scotland League Cup exit at the hands of Vale of Clyde last week.
However, their recent league form is undoubtedly impressive having won seven of their last eight games.
Grierson insists his full focus is on the title and reckons the signs are there that his players are more than ready for the challenge.
He said: "I've not given up on the title and I don't expect the players to either. Actually, I can see it in their eyes that they haven't.
"The league is our number one priority. Other teams might be competing on different fronts but that might actually work in our favour.
"I remember during my time at the Buffs [Kilwinning Rangers] we got to the quarter finals of the Scottish Junior Cup and the West, but once we were out the wheels fell off our league campaign.
"We just have to concentrate on ourselves and give the league our full attention."
Grierson insists he's relishing the three-way fight at the top with Arthurlie also providing a formidable challenge.
But he admits to feeling a little frustration when he reflects on the early part of the campaign.
"We're were missing nine players for a large chunk," said Grierson.
"We also had guys playing through injuries just so we could get 11 on the park. I felt really sorry for the boys.
"In fact, when Shotts beat us 3-1 at their place we lost Chris McGowan and Blair Anderson, two of our most experienced players, to injury in the space of a couple of minutes.
"Thankfully, that period seems to be behind us and we're now in a position where we will have seven guys on the bench on Saturday all capable of affecting the game.
"It's a brilliant Conference to be involved in to be honest with a lot of good teams in there.
"It's exciting at the top end of the table but It's just a shame only team can get promoted because they're all good sides."
Kick-off tomorrow is 1.30pm.
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