Key factors behind the upsurge

From The Courier:   Now just two points behind leaders Stranraer, Arbroath Manager Paul Sheerin believes they are right back in the title mix.

He said, "We were delighted to come away with six points from a couple of tough away games.

"We scored nine goals without reply and that's four clean sheets in a row. "I'm pleased with that because that was an issue for us earlier in the season."

He added, "The recent results have put us right back in the mix, although we may suffer because of the start we had."

Swankie's brace followed two goals against Montrose at Links Park at New Year. The 27-year-old has been linking up well with strike partner Steven Doris.

Sheerin believes the pair's form is one of the reasons the team is doing so well — but was keen to stress that the whole side deserves credit.

He said, "Gavin's playing really well and he's found a great understanding with Steven Doris.  "The service they have been getting has been suiting both — but the team as a unit has been playing well, so it's difficult to single out individuals."

He added, "We've just got to keep it going and take our good form into the next game."