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Match Preview - Dunfermline Athletic

Oli Anderson previews today’s SPFL Trust Trophy match against Dunfermline Athletic.

We have found ourselves on a bumper run of form in recent weeks, stretching our winning run to five straight games, though this afternoon looks to be our biggest test on paper so far. We gear up to face local rivals Dunfermline Athletic in the third round of the SPFL Trust Trophy at the MGM Timber Bayview Stadium.

Recent Form

Our opponents: Dunfermline Athletic

The Pars have struggled for form since the start of the league campaign, having only registered one point in their opening four games in the Championship. Three defeats and a draw have put Dunfermline at the foot of the second tier, as they have struggled to find the net, scoring just once, last weekend in a 1-1 draw with Championship leaders Ayr United. Losses against Livingston, Falkirk and Hamilton Academical have also contributed to their poor start.

However, this could be a fresh start for Dunfermline, and the Fifers must be wary of the Pars, despite the contrasting form.

The Fife’s Fine Form

A poor opening day result in the league has been more than made up for in recent weeks, with now five consecutive wins in all competitions. Four league victories against Edinburgh City, Forfar Athletic, Stirling Albion and Clyde have seen us recover from the 4-2 loss to Elgin City on the opening day. On top of that, our victory over St Johnstone B in the Trust Trophy got us here today.

Previous Encounter

28th June 2024- East Fife 2-0 Dunfermline Athletic: MGM Timber Bayview Stadium

Our first friendly game this season saw an impressive victory over championship opposition, and county rivals, Dunfermline Athletic.

Playing a long ball over the top, Dunfermline struggled to find any success due to new signing Andy Munro and Brian Easton’s formidable partnership. Watching the resolute defending on both sides, it became clear that it would take a moment of magic to break the deadlock.

Kieran Millar took it upon himself to break the deadlock, rifling a shot into the top corner. It was so well placed that even two goalkeepers would not have been able to stop it. He caught it as sweet as a nut and wheeled away in celebration when the ball burst the net- Deservedly so!

The second half saw a large rotation, with trialists coming into the fold. One of which, who wore number 16 on the day, played an outstanding pass into Scott Shepherd, who slotted home into the Pars.

Shep tucked his goal into the bottom left-hand corner, ridding the goalkeeper of any opportunity to keep it out. The goal brought a close to the action, as we punched well above our weight, to overcome the side from the west of Fife.

Squad News

New signing Gordon Walker available for selection today and there are no fresh injury concerns ahead of the game.

Match Tickets

Season tickets are not valid for Cup matches, with prices below:

Adults- £15

Concessions (Over 65s/Disabled)- £10

Under 16s- £5

There are no cash turnstiles at Bayview, so supporters are encouraged to buy their ticket online in advance where possible. However, ticket can also be purchased (cash and card) from the matchday reception for those unable to do so.

Additionally, the Community Gate will not be in operation this afternoon.

Live Stream

Live Streaming is available worldwide this afternoon via East Fife TV for £15.

Club Colours

The Fifers will don the new, MPH Group sponsored home kit. They will wear the famous black and gold striped shirt, with black shorts and socks. The Fife goalkeeper will wear blue for the tie.

Dunfermline will be in their traditional black and white stripes, with white shorts and socks. Their goalkeeper will be clad in red for the tie.

Officials

The referee today will be Iain Snedden with Andy Milne and Ross Anderson running the lines.

The Extra Bits

The Bayview issue 7 will be available pre-kick off for £3 from sellers outside the stadium. It can also be purchased in the club shop which will be open from 1:15pm. This week’s edition contains an interview with first team coach Stuart Malcolm. Those unable to attend today’s match can purchase their programme online for home delivery.

The Stadium Bar will be open from 12:15pm afternoon, we welcome you to join us for a few beverages pre-kick off!

Pie stalls will be open at both ends of the ground from 2:00pm.Both cash and card are accepted.

Mon the Fife!