Oli Anderson previews tomorrow’s match against Annan Athletic.

The Fifers return to action this week after a gap in the schedule due to Cup ties. We host Annan Athletic at Bayview in what is a crucial clash for the Fifers. The Galabankies currently find themselves sat in 8th in the cinch League Two table, but the race for the playoffs is extremely tight as there is only nine points separating 3rd to 10th in the table. A fortnight ago, Fife were on the wrong end of the score line, losing out 3-1 to title challengers Stirling Albion. The backline took a while to warm into the game and we found ourselves 2 goals down inside the opening 10 minutes. The Black and Gold found themselves on the ascendency for the remainder of the game but unfortunately left themselves with too much to do.

The visitors drew 1-1 with Stranraer in a game with little chances, Annan only registering 2 shots over the 90 minutes. They have matched East Fife’s form over the last 5 games too, also winning 2, losing 2 and drawing 1.

Squad News

Aaron Steele’s one-game suspension has now been completed so he will return to the squad this week. Also, talisman Ryan Schiavone has come back from his hamstring injury and is available for selection against the Galabankies. Our long-term injury list remains the same, as McManus, Walls, Omar and Gallacher are still side-lined.

Team Colours

East Fife are back in their home kit this week, donning the tartan top, with black shorts and socks. The ‘keeper will wear the standard neon yellow kit.

The away side will be clad in their red and black top, accompanied with their matching red and black shorts and socks. The Annan goalkeeper will be dressed in all blue for the match.

Previous Encounter

When the Fifers travelled south to Galabank for the 8th matchday of the season, the two sides shared the spoils in a 2-2 draw. The Fifers started fast, and a first half brace from number 9 Scott Shepherd handed Fife the advantage. Hopefully Shepherd can match his scoring form from that performance as he has failed to find the net since.

Despite the impressive 1st 45 minutes, Annan were the better team for the second period and striker Tommy Goss matched Shepherd, scoring 2 goals in 3 minutes, splitting the points on the day.

East Fife Team:

On the day, Fife lined up with a back 4, a midfield 4 and Trouten playing just off of Shepherd:

A. Fleming, Mercer (Healy 84’), Steele, Denham, Murdoch, Steven (Newton 66’), Millar, Ferguson, Williamson (Baldé 66’) Trouten, Shepherd (Schiavone 82’)

Annan Athletic Team:

Annan played with two banks of 4 and a bank of 2 last time out, attempting to contain the Fife attack:

G. Fleming, Barnes (Luissint 45’), Hooper, Kilsby, Lowdon (Hunter 45’), Johnston, Lyon (McCartney 65’), Docherty, Wallace, Muir, Goss.

Match Tickets

There will be no cash turnstiles for the game this weekend, and we encourage supporters to purchase their tickets online in advance. You can also get tickets from the club, either in person, or over the telephone at 01333 426323. Parent and Child tickets must be bought directly from the club office.

Season tickets are valid for this game.

Turnstiles will be open from 2pm.

Prices Below:

Adult - £18

Concessions - £15

U16s - £5

Parent & Child - £21

Parent & 2 Children - £24. 

All child members of EFCFC & EFG&WFC have been granted free admission with a paying adult or as part of an organised group for all of our home league matches this season! Tickets for this are organised through EFCFC. We hope to see as many of you present as possible, to help support the team.

Live Streaming

No live stream is available to viewers with the UK & Ireland.

Viewers outside the UK & Ireland can watch the match via East Fife TV with a monthly or season pass

Match Officials

The on-pitch official this weekend will be Colin Whyte, and his two assistants running the lines will be Sean Carr and Scott Anderson.

Refreshments

The stadium bar will be open from 12.15pm for pre-game refreshments. The pie stalls will open prior to kick-off and will remain open until after half-time.

Programme

The Bayview Programme issue 11 is available from vendors outside of the stadium for £2.50. Also, half time draw tickets will be available pre-match.