The third division is rapidly becoming the breeding ground for stars of tomorrow, as highlighted in two transactions yesterday when Cowdenbeath and Stenhousemuir looked towards the capital for inspiration.

Cowdenbeath captured central defender Graham Findlay, 16, from Hearts and he could find a place away to Queen's Park, with Martin Humphries sidelined by the effects of whiplash following a midweek car accident. Queen's will have Ross Caven, David Graham, and Paul Ferguson available again.

Stenhousemuir signed 18-year-old striker Kenny Miller on loan from Hibs and will include him for the visit to Albion Rovers who, themselves, have a number of teenagers in their line-up. Larbert manager Terry Christie said: ''Kenny has had a handful of games for the Hibs first team and his presence will freshen us.''

Berwick youngsters Murray Leask and Darren Smith are creating considerable interest, with Raith Rovers one of a number of clubs watching them. They will again be the focus today against visitors Brechin who will be without Gary Smith who has a cracked rib.

East Stirling manager Hugh McCann is another keen to give youth an opportunity, and the talented Brown Ferguson will again be in action today for the visit to Montrose whose recently appointed manager, Kevin Drinkell, is desperate to lift them off the bottom of the table.

He hopes to have the help of former Stirling Albion defender Gary Paterson who was a trialist in Montrose's surprise midweek win over Dumbarton.

However, it is experience that can win promotion and Ross County have that as they look for a home win over Dumbarton to keep them at the top of the table. Manager Neale Cooper welcomes back Dave Mackay today and says: ''He is the first of a number of injured players nearing full fitness. I will be glad to have them back to increase competition for places.''