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New Honorary Director Appointed
We’re delighted to confirm the appointment of Denis Nicol as an Honorary Director.
Denis has been an East Fife supporter since the late 1940s, with his family business, RS Nicol & Sons, being the main club sponsor for a number of years. He began volunteering with the stadium maintenance team following his retirement and was appointed to the club board as an Associate Director in 2014.
Chairman Jim Stevenson: “We are delighted that Denis has accepted this position of Honorary Director. He has been around the club for a long time from sponsoring club cars to various financial donations before stepping into the role of Associate Director, where continued to put in many hours of work alongside the stadium volunteers. Congratulations Denis - this is very much deserved.”
Match Report - Forfar Athletic
East Fife 2-1 Forfar Athletic, Saturday 17th August 2024
William Hill League 2, MGM Timber Bayview Stadium
East Fife welcomed Forfar Athletic in their third league outing of the season, having won 2-0 against Edinburgh City last week and suffering a 4-2 loss against Elgin City on the opening day. The Fifer’s started with an unchanged lineup from last week’s victory with Alan Trouten captaining the side once again.
In the opening exchanges, both teams were looking to spring the offside trap and use their pace in behind. Unfortunately for the home team, however, Nathan Austin was flagged offside 8 times in the first 20 minutes! Chances for both teams came around the 10-minute mark where Jess Norey’s first time volley from the edge of the box was held at the first attempt by Marc McCallum, and Arran Cocks forced a smart stop from Liam McFarlane down at his left-hand side.
The remainder of the first half was, at times, a rather difficult watch. That was until the 43rd minute after Norey was fouled 20 yards out and the resulting free kick was expertly curled into McCallum’s top right corner by Nathan Austin to give us a 1-0 lead at the interval. For further reading, please refer to the EFTV highlights of the goal to gain a true appreciation of the set piece!
From the sublime, to the silly - a straightforward cross into the box 6 minutes into the second looked to be easily dealt with by the East Fife back line. McFarlane came for the cross, Munro tried to turn the ball behind for a corner but instead rolled the ball into the bottom corner to draw the Loons level. Spooked by the calamity, the Fifers struggled to regain the initiative for the next 10 minutes as Forfar tried to capitalise and go ahead.
East Fife soon rallied and looked like the team in the ascendency. On 64 minutes, Norey was played through on goal by Reis Peggie and, in truth, should have restored the lead but managed to push his effort wide of the upright. On 75 minutes, East Fife had the ball in the back of the net but the far-side linesman adjudged Kieran Millar offside as he stabbed home a fumble from the Forfar goalie.
An outstanding long ball from Liam Newton and a deft touch from Nathan Austin bamboozled the Forfar backline on 78 minutes. Our frontman took the ball round the keeper and was tripped, having the goal at his mercy. Penalty to East Fife! You know the rest - Trouten steps up, to regain our 1 goal lead with 10 minutes to go. The rest of the game was rather nervy as we tried to hold on to our lead. After 4 minutes of injury time the referee called the game to a stop and the 3 points remained in Methil.
East Fife sit in 4th place in the league after 3 games on 6 points, 3 points behind the league leaders Peterhead who maintained their 100% record in the league this season. Next week it’s away to Forthbank Stadium to face Stirling Albion.
Reporter’s Man of the Match: Jess Norey.
The midfielder was everywhere, claiming every second ball and turning defence into attack at every opportunity, and on another occasion could and should have got himself a goal.
East Fife – McFarlane, McManus (Murdoch 45’), Peggie (Laaref 78’), Munro, Newton, Millar, Norey, Trouten, Shepherd (Healy 65’), Austin (Slattery 84’). Subs not used: Fleming
Forfar Athletic – McCallum, Klimionek (Skelly 80’), Morrison, Allan, Hutchinson, Taylor, MacLean (Reekie 75’), Whatley, Robson, Cocks (McLean 66’), Cannon. Subs not used: Franczak, Paris
Referee – Alex Shepherd
Attendance – 645
Report by Niall Anderson
Photograph by Kenny Mackay
Match Preview - Forfar Athletic
Oli Anderson previews today’s match against Forfar Athletic
Two wins in the last seven days has seen East Fife put their opening day woes behind them. Firstly, a 2-0 win over Edinburgh City saw us pick up our first points in the league last Saturday, before a comeback win over St Johnstone B midweek allowed for the Fifers to progress into the third round of the SPFL Trust Trophy.
This week’s opposition Forfar Athletic are coming off the back of a treacherous week. Firstly, a stoppage time goal from Peterhead last weekend saw the Loons taste their first defeat in the league, before a disappointing performance against Highland League opposition Fraserburgh saw Forfar crash out of the challenge cup on Tuesday night.
William Hill League Two Table
| Team | Pld | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elgin City | 2 | 3 | 6 |
| 2 | Peterhead | 2 | 2 | 6 |
| 3 | The Spartans | 2 | 2 | 4 |
| 4 | Clyde | 2 | 1 | 4 |
| 5 | East Fife | 2 | 0 | 3 |
| 6 | Stirling Albion | 2 | 0 | 3 |
| 7 | Stranraer | 2 | -1 | 1 |
| 8 | Forfar Athletic | 2 | -1 | 1 |
| 9 | Edinburgh City | 2 | -3 | 0 |
| 10 | Bonnyrigg Rose | 2 | -3 | 0 |
Last Week’s Results
Clyde 1-0 Stranraer
East Fife 2-0 Edinburgh City
Peterhead 2-1 Forfar Athletic
Stirling Albion 0-1 Elgin City
The Spartans 2-0 Bonnyrigg Rose
This Week’s Fixtures
Clyde vs Stirling Albion
East Fife vs Forfar Athletic
Edinburgh City vs Bonnyrigg Rose
Peterhead vs Stranraer
The Form
The Fifers
East Fife’s last six games have resulted in three wins, and three losses, one of which coming via penalties.
The first fixture came against Alloa Athletic, at the Indodrill Stadium. Despite a valiant fight against another higher tier opponent, we could not capitalise on chances created, and the game was forced to a penalty shootout. Munro stepped up first for Fife and had his effort saved, before all eight of the following penalties were converted, which ended up reading a 5-3 scoreline in favour of the Wasps, which gave our opponents the bonus point on the day.
In our first of three wins, the Fifers ran out 4-0 winners over Highland League runners up Brechin City. An even quarter of an hour blew wide open, after Liam Newton opened the scoring with a great header. Nathan Austin showed his striker’s instincts five minutes later, to pounce on Reis Peggie’s cross that was headed goalbound. Just before the break, Scott Shepherd capitalised on some nervy goalkeeping, to round the goalie and slot home for the Fifers. Within 60 seconds of the start of the second half, Austin grabbed his brace, following some fantastic work on the left-hand side from Healy and Newton. The performance matched the result and it arguable could’ve been more on the day.
The second was in the League Cup, against premiership opposition. St Johnstone showed the levels between the two sides, as they came out 5-1 winners against us at McDiarmid Park. The scoreline was perhaps an untrue reflection on the game, as East Fife, who trailed 3-0 at half time, pulled a goal back, and squandered a great chance to get ourselves well and truly back in the tie. Alas, it was not to be, and two late goals from the Saints inflated the scoreline.
We then proceeded to make a start on the league proceedings, though it was not in the desired fashion, as we lost 4-2 to Elgin at Borough Briggs. A flurry within five minutes either side of the half time whistle saw East Fife trail 3-0 after 5 minutes. A spirited fightback got the Methil Milan back to 3-2, before a late goal from Ryan Sargent killed the game.
Last Saturday, East Fife ran out comfortable winners over Edinburgh City. A tight first half saw the sides goalless at the break, though a flurry in the second saw Liam Newton and Alan Trouten find the net to secure the win.
Finally, East Fife recovered from a poor start in the challenge cup against St Johnstone’s B. A calamitous opening ten minutes saw St Johnstone lead through Mackenzie Kirk, and they perhaps should have had more as East Fife struggled to get a hold on the game. Alas, they kicked into gear, and overturned the deficit at the start of the second half, with the goals coming from Scott Shepherd and Nathan Austin- who found the net after 48 minutes, during his 150th appearance for the Fifers.
Our Opposition
Forfar’s last 6 games have seen two wins, a draw and three losses, with their last win coming on the 20th of July at home to Cove Rangers via a penalty shootout.
Their first loss came away to The Spartans in the last game of the league cup group stage. A late winner from Blair Henderson grabbed The Spartans all three points in the 1-0 win. The goal was a great contributor towards the Edinburgh side’s progression in the competition.
After that, the Loons’ next loss came at the hands of Peterhead. Rory McAllister’s opener was cancelled out by ‘Loon’ Jackson Mylchreest, before Seb Ross’ 92nd minute winner ensured that all three points would stay in the highlands.
Forfar were on the road again just days later, where they fell subject to a 2-1 loss to Fraserburgh in the SPFL Trust Trophy. Scott Reekie’s opener was answered by Scott Barbour, before a late goal from Connor Wood knocked the league two side out of the competition.
Their draw was a goalless affair with Clyde on the opening game of the league season.
Their first win came away to championship outfit, as they beat Dunfermline Athletic 2-0 at East End. Russell McLean and Mark Whatley were both on the scoresheet as the Loons cruised to victory.
Forfar Athletic’s most recent win came against Cove Rangers, as they squeezed by the championship team on penalties. Blair Malcolm’s opener was matched by Connor Scully, which sent the team to penalties. A strong performance from Marc McCallum ensured that the Loons grabbed the bonus point.
Previous Encounter
Forfar Athletic 2-1 East Fife, 20th April 2024- Station Park
The last time the two sides played, Forfar ran out 2-1 victors on their own patch. A decent start from the Fifers saw Liam Newton find the net, which sent the Fifers into the interval one goal to the good.
However, Forfar came out for the second half with fire in their bellies, and a brace from talisman Russell McLean saw the Loons complete the turnaround and come away with all three points.
Squad News
Speaking yesterday, Assistant Manager Ian Campbell confirmed that they have a full squad available for today’s match and that those who played on Tuesday night have given the management team “a lot to think about in terms of selection” ahead of today’s game.
Match Tickets
Season Tickets are valid for our league campaign, with prices below:
Adults- £18
Concessions (Over 65s/Disabled)- £14
Under 16s- £5
Parent and 1 child- £21
Parent and 2 children- £24
Like last season, EFCFC players Under 16 years of age will be admitted for free!
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.
Please note, parent & child ticket must be purchased in person from the matchday reception.
Supporters still to collect their season ticket cards can do from reception until 2pm today or from the club shop after 2pm until kick off.
Live Stream
For our International Fans, Live Streaming for today’s game will be available on EFTV, using a Monthly, or Annual Gold Pass.
As today’s game takes place outside of blocked hours, the match is also available on PPV for viewers within the UK and Ireland.
Today’s commentator will be Daniel Hughes.
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 yellow for the match.
Forfar Athletic will wear also be in their traditional colour of sky blue shirts, white shorts are sky blue socks. The Loons keeper will be in all pink.
Officials
The referee today is Alex Shepherd and running the lines are David Dunne and Cameron Telfer.
The Extra Bits
The Bayview issue 5 will be available pre-kick off for £3, it can also be purchased in the club shop which will be open from 1.45pm. Today’s issue includes an interview with Liam McFarlane. Those unable to attend today’s match can purchase their programme online for home delivery.
The Stadium Bar will be open from 12.15pm this 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 today from 2pm. Both cash and card are accepted.
Mon the Fife!
Match Preview - Edinburgh City
Oli Anderson previews today’s match against Edinburgh City
A disappointing start to our William Hill League 2 campaign saw us drop to the foot of the table following a 4-2 loss away to Elgin City last week. We must put that behind us though, as we get ready to play our first home game of the league season, hosting Edinburgh City, who also lost last week, conceding two late goals against Stirling Albion. Today grants us a great opportunity to get some points on the board and leave the last fortnight’s results in the past.
William Hill League 2 Table
| Team | Pld | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elgin City | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| 2 | Stirling Albion | 1 | 1 | 3 |
| 3 | Peterhead | 1 | 1 | 3 |
| 4 | Stranraer | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| 5 | The Spartans | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| 6 | Clyde | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| 7 | Forfar Athletic | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| 8 | Edinburgh City | 1 | -1 | 0 |
| 9 | Bonnyrigg Rose | 1 | -1 | 0 |
| 10 | East Fife | 1 | -2 | 0 |
Last Week’s Results
Bonnyrigg Rose 0-1 Peterhead
Edinburgh City 1-2 Stirling Albion
Elgin City 4-2 East Fife
Forfar Athletic 0-0 Clyde
Stranraer 2-2 The Spartans
This Week’s Fixtures
Clyde vs Stranraer
East Fife vs Edinburgh City
Peterhead vs Forfar Athletic
Stirling Albion vs Elgin City
The Spartans vs Bonnyrigg Rose
The Form
The Fifers
The League Cup campaign provided an opportunity to look further into our squad and better prepare for an exciting league season ahead.
The first game was against Championship outfit Greenock Morton, which saw the Methil Milan recording a 3-0 win over the second-tier side. Alan Trouten was a great contributor in securing the three points, bagging a hattrick on the day, and a place in the “Premier Sports - Team of the Group Stage” as a result. The Fifers found their rhythm after ten minutes into the game, and never looked back, having an exemplary five minutes, which led to a 2-0 lead at half time. This trend continued into the second half, both going forward, as well as at the back, with Trouten scoring an absolute stunner at one end, and Slattery, and McFarlane both contributing to great blocks and saves, keeping the clean sheet intact.
The second fixture came against Alloa Athletic, at Recreation Park. Despite a valiant fight against another higher tier opponent, we could not capitalise on chances created, and the game was forced to a penalty shootout. Munro stepped up first for Fife and had his effort saved, before all eight of the following penalties were converted, which ended up reading a 5-3 scoreline in favour of the Wasps, which gave our opponents the bonus point on the day.
Penultimately, the Fifers ran out 4-0 winners over Highland League runners up Brechin City. An even quarter of an hour blew wide open, after Liam Newton opened the scoring with a great header. Nathan Austin showed his striker’s instincts five minutes later, to pounce on Reis Peggie’s cross that was headed goal bound. Just before the break, Scott Shepherd capitalised on some nervy goalkeeping, to round the goalie and slot home for the Fifers. Within 60 seconds of the start of the second half, Austin grabbed his brace, following some fantastic work on the left-hand side from Healy and Newton. The performance matched the result and it arguable could’ve been more on the day.
The final League Cup game came against Premiership opposition. St Johnstone showed the levels between the two sides, as they came out 5-1 winners against us at McDiarmid Park. The scoreline was perhaps an untrue reflection on the game, as East Fife, who trailed 3-0 at half time, pulled a goal back, and squandered a great chance to get ourselves well and truly back in the tie. Alas, it was not to be, and two late goals from the Saints inflated the scoreline.
We then proceeded to make a start on the league proceedings, though it was not in the desired fashion, as we lost 4-2 to Elgin at Borough Briggs. A flurry within five minutes either side of the half time whistle saw East Fife trail 3-0 after 5 minutes. A spirited fightback got the Methil Milan back to 3-2, before a late goal from Ryan Sargent killed the game.
Our Opponents.
Edinburgh City have lost all five of their opening games this season, finishing bottom of their Premier Sports Cup group with no points.
They opened the campaign at Fir Park, where they fell 3-0 to Motherwell in what was a routine win for the Steelmen.
Their second game was a 5-0 drubbing at home to fellow League 2 outfit Clyde. Five different scorers contributed for the Bully Wee including former Fifer Kyle Connell.
It then went from bad to worse, as the Citizens conceded six against Partick Thistle. There were six different scorers as well, with every goal coming in the second half, after Clyde held firm in the first.
Their final league cup game saw them face a 2-1 loss away to Montrose. Edinburgh went 1-0 down after seven minutes, before Innes Lawson pulled them back into the tie. Blair Lyons’ 65th minute goal however, proved to be the difference on the day.
Edinburgh looked destined to start their league campaign well against Stirling, leading 1-0 with just four minutes left, thanks to a goal from Connor Young. The Binos dug their heels in however, and goals from Josh Kerr and Dale Carrick completed the turnaround for Stirling Albion.
Previous Encounter
Edinburgh City 0-1 East Fife: 0/7/12/2016 Scottish Cup Third Round Replay
Following a 1-1 draw at Bayview, East Fife were sent to the capital to play Edinburgh City at Meadowbank. A close fought game was only separated by a Chris Kane goal which came in the second half.
Today’s match is the first league meeting between the sides.
Squad News
The Campbells have a full squad at their disposal once again, allowing us to hopefully kick start our season with a bang.
Match Tickets
Season Tickets are valid for our league campaign, with prices below:
Adults- £18
Concessions (Over 65s/Disabled)- £14
Under 16s- £5
Parent and 1 child- £21
Parent and 2 children- £24
Like last season, EFCFC players Under 16 years of age will be admitted for free!
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.
Please note, parent & child ticket must be purchased in person from the matchday reception.
Supporters still to collect their season ticket cards can do from reception until 2pm today or from the club shop after 2pm until kick off.
Live Stream
For our international fans, live streaming for today’s game will be available on EFTV, using a Monthly, or Annual Gold Pass. Today’s commentator will be Daniel Hughes. There is no live streaming option for viewers within the UK or Ireland today.
Team 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 yellow for the match.
Edinburgh City will be in their traditional colours of a white shirt, with black shorts and white socks. The Edinburgh keeper will be clad in turquoise for the clash.
Officials
The referee today will be Sean Murdoch, with Brian Christie and David Gallagher running the lines.
The Extra Bits
The Bayview issue 4 will be available pre-kick off for £3, it can also be purchased in the club shop which will be open from 1.45pm. Today’s issue includes an interview with new signing Reis Peggie. Those unable to attend today’s match can purchase their programme online for home delivery.
The Stadium Bar will be open from 12.15pm this 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 at 2pm today. Both cash and card are accepted.
Mon the Fife!