Both sides have had their last three games postponed and they will each be desperate to start the New Year on a high.
Star manager Eddie Warwick is determined to beat the Lowland League drop. He has already made some big changes since taking over the reins at Islecroft in October, bringing in seven new players.
The manager and his assistant Brian Gilfillan have got a big task ahead to get off the bottom with only five points on the board at the midway point of the season.
He said: “Everyone thought at first we were doomed when we came in initially, but if we’re doomed we’re going to go down swinging. We’re picking up now and we’re only two behind second bottom Edinburgh Uni.
“I think we have improved the team for when we arrived Star had one point and were still looking for a win. We’ve now got our first win and we know what the best formation is.
“I think we need at least four wins before the end of the season to stand any chance.
“I think we’re now in a position to compete for points against all the teams and fighting for points to secure our survival in the Lowland League.”
As Gretna 2008’s Boxing Day fixture away to East Kilbride was postponed, management hope to see a big crowd at Raydale on Saturday.
Assistant manager, Robbie Park, reflected: “We hope everyone had a great time with their families and loved ones over the Christmas period.
“As a coaching staff, we want to thank everyone for their help in supporting us this season and we are looking forward to the challenges and excitement of the second half of the season.
“What better way than to end the year with a derby match at home, where the club have generously distributed over 1000 free tickets within the area to local schools.
“We hope to see as many fans as possible come out and enjoy the match on the last day of the calendar year and show their support for the team.”
Gretna are advising supporters to arrive early for the 1 pm kick off.
