Match Report - Dunbar United

Dunbar United 1-0 East Fife, Scottish Gas Scottish Cup

Saturday 28^th October 2023, New Countess Park

East Fife crashed out of the Scottish Cup after being beaten by East of Scotland side Dunbar United after a well below par performance.

East Fife controlled the game from early proceedings, though Dunbar did still have their chances.

Kieran Millar had a chance inside the opening 10 minutes for the Fifers, as a training ground free-kick routine, akin to that against Stranraer, found the central midfielder in the box. Millar released a well struck effort, though it was blocked by the Seasiders’ centre half, keeping the scores level.

The onslaught continued, and less than two minutes later, a lovely cross from Alan Trouten met the head of Nathan Austin, but Fash’s header cannoned back off the crossbar, as Fife were left empty handed for all their hard work.

10 minutes later, Brian Easton went down, unopposed and was escorted off by club physio Jeb Spink. We hope that Easton’s injury is not too serious and wish him a speedy recovery. He was replaced by a returning Jonathan Page.

Dunbar’s first clear chance of the game came at the expense of a Sean Docherty mistake, as Handling nicked the ball from the full back, and burst toward goal. Fleming met him though, and a strong save kept the game goalless, for the time being.

It was end to end stuff for a period, as Shepherd burst away, and got past his defender. Unfortunately, his shot was tame and was gathered easily by Dowie. Moments later, Healy created a chance from a corner, and it takes a fantastic save from Dowie to deny Page from a bullet header. The second corner was met by Austin, who nodded the ball into the car park.

After 40 minutes, the Fifers had yet another opening, as Healy set up Shepherd, though Fife’s number 9’s shot glanced past both posts.

With 43 minutes on the clock, Dunbar United were awarded a penalty, after Comerford was adjudged to have fouled Somers inside the penalty area.

Whitson stepped up, and despite Allan Fleming getting both hands on it, he could only push it against the post, and the ball bobbled over the line, handing the Seasiders a shock lead.

What came after the half time whistle was simply one of nature’s cruel tolls on the world, as East Fife annihilated Dunbar, as for around 40 minutes of the 45, the ball was the Dunbar defensive half. Unfortunately, though, the attackers did not have their shooting boots on, as countless chances were squandered over the proceedings. Credit does also have to go the home side, however, for some resolute defending throughout.

East Fife almost had too many half chances to mention, but no real chances of note worth a mention with Dowie having a long afternoon, gaining lots of practice at his goal kicks.

In the final 20, the game was played completely in the final third, with Dunbar (understandably) packing men in their box, holding on for the 1-0 win which would give them progression in the Scottish Cup.

East Fife continued to push, but Dunbar held on, and despite East Fife being the aggressors in the majority of the game, it was Dunbar United who progressed into the third round of the Scottish Cup. Their heart, gut, and determination proved that they were worthy winners on the day, in what was a rather disappointing day at the office for the Fifers.

Report by Oli Anderson

Dunbar United – Dowie, Berry, Thomson, Whitson, Redpath, Congalton, Archibald, Somers, Bathgate (Hare 83’), Gregory (Stewart 80’), Handling

East Fife – Fleming, Docherty (Murdoch 45’), Comerford, Easton (Page 23’ (Nicol 80’)), Newton, Millar (Walls 68’), McManus, Trouten, Shepherd (Schiavone 80’), Austin, Healy

Referee – George Calder

Attendance - 749

Match Preview - Dunbar United

Oli Anderson previews today’s Scottish Cup tie against Dunbar United.

East Fife are back in cup action this weekend, after our midweek success in the Fife Cup. This time, however, we are on the road, travelling to East Lothian to play Dunbar United at New Countess Park. The Fifers will hope that “The Garden of Scotland” lives up to its name, as they look to play on a grass pitch for just the third time this season (after Fir Park and The Rock). Following late goals from Walls and Schiavone on Tuesday, the Fifers were able to sink Burntisland Shipyard in the last 8 of the Fife Cup, as they booked their ticket to the semis.

Last week, our opponents, The Seasiders, narrowly lost out 3-2 to league leaders Penicuik Athletic at NCP.

Fun Facts about “oor” Scottish Cup   

• In total 172,807 walked through the gates of Hampden Park on the 23rd and 27th April 1938, to watch the Black and Gold lift the trophy. This was due to the fact that there was a replay after the first tie ended in a draw.
  • Eddie McLeod’s opener gave the Fifers the lead after 18 minutes, though Doug McAvoy swiftly replied, ensuring that it finished all square.
  • The Fifers were made to work for it in the replay too, as they once again took an early lead, this time through Danny McKerrell, before Benny Thomson equalised for Kilmarnock, and Felix McGrogan handed them the lead. I
  • n the second half, the Fifers ensured there would be no Killie Pies for tea (that may be 65 years too early, but I love the image it creates) as Eddie McLeod was back on the scoresheet ensuring that after 180 minutes of football, the two sides could still not be separated.
  • It then eventually went to extra time, where after a goal from Larry Miller, and a second from McKerrell hand East Fife their first and so far, only Scottish Cup title.
• East Fife won their semi-final tie that season against St Bernards, having to go through two replays as well.
  • McKerrell, who scored 2 in the final, also scored against St Bernards, booking Fife’s spot in the last two.
  • In the April 25th1938, edition of the Glasgow Herald (which covered primarily the 1st of two games against Kilmarnock in the final), it is made clear that Danny was signed up specifically for this purpose:
  • “It is a matter of history that McKerrell, recruited specially for the occasion, emerged from the obscurity of Alliance Football and found himself famous overnight by scoring the goal which sent East Fife, at the expense of St Bernards into the final of the Scottish Cup”.

Other Notable Fixtures in the Second Round

We have an interesting rematch in the Scottish Cup, as The Spartans travel to Brechin City. This is an opportunity for the Highland League champions to show they can compete, after coming so close to the pyramid last season.

Fellow Fifers St Andrews United travel to the west to play Albion Rovers in what will be an interesting affair.

Lowland League side Civil Service Strollers also look to show how they would fair against stronger opposition, as they host a struggling Stranraer side this afternoon.

Finally, Brora Rangers (who should they win their 3 games in hand would go top of the Highland League), play a strong Stenhousemuir side at 3 o’clock.

Squad News

Outs- At the request of his parent club, Kieran Mitchell is unavailable for today’s clash with Dunbar United and while Pat Slattery came through the Shippy game unscathed, it looks like this afternoon may be too soon for him to be in such competitive action.

Ins- Jonathan Page and Charlie Murray both return to the squad after spells on the sidelines.

Team Colours

East Fife will wear the 120^th anniversary kit today, in the Black and Gold striped kit, with white shorts and socks, while the goalkeeper will be clad in a blue and black kit for the tie.

Dunbar United will also wear their traditional colours for the tie, donning a black and white striped shirt, with black shorts and socks. The Seasiders’ goalie will be in all green for the contest.

Match Tickets

Gates open at 2pm for the clash this afternoon. Please note that New Countess Park is around a 5-minute walk from Dunbar Train Station, and we have been informed that there is ample parking for those who arrive early at the ground.

Adults - £12

Concessions (Over 65s/12-16years) - £7

Ticket can be purchased online however pay-at-the-gate is also available.

Live Streaming

Live Streaming of the game will be available on East Fife TV for our international fans. This can be accessed through a monthly or season pass. You can access this HERE!

There is no live stream for viewers within the UK or Ireland.

Officials

The on-pitch official on Saturday will be George Calder while his assistants running the line are Kieran Martin and Robin Taylor.

Refreshments

DUFC will have pie stalls open from around 2pm where hot food and drinks can be purchased.

MON THE FIFE!

Pat Slattery Awarded a Testimonial

East Fife Football Club is delighted to announce that Pat Slattery has been awarded a testimonial for his 9 seasons’ service at Bayview.

The testimonial committee are planning a series of events starting in the new year and full details will be announced over the coming weeks.

Pat joined the East Fife for the start of the 2015/16 League Two title winning season and has turned out for the club on 251 occasions to date, ranking him 16^th on the all-time appearances list.

There will be lots of opportunities for fans to show their appreciation to our current longest-serving player over the next 12 months, so keep your eyes peeled for regular updates from the committee.

Congratulation Pat!

Admission Info v Dunbar United

This Saturday (28^th October) we begin our 2023/24 Scottish Gas Scottish Cup campaign with a trip to face East of Scotland Premier Division side Dunbar United at New Countess Park.

Admission prices for the tie have been confirmed as follows:

Adults - £12

Concessions* - £7

*Over 65s/ Ages 12-16 – proof of age/eligibility may be requested

Tickets for the game can be purchased online in advance however pay-at-the-gate is also available.

There is no live stream available for viewers within the UK & Ireland this weekend, however overseas supporters can watch the match via East Fife TV with a monthly or season pass. 

Our hosts on Saturday have kindly provided the following information for fans travelling to New Countess Park this weekend:

This Saturday (28^th October) we begin our 2023/24 Scottish Gas Scottish Cup campaign with a trip to face East of Scotland Premier Division side Dunbar United at New Countess Park.

Admission prices for the tie have been confirmed as follows:

Adults - £12

Concessions* - £7

*Over 65s/ Ages 12-16 – proof of age/eligibility may be requested

Tickets for the game can be purchased online in advance however pay-at-the-gate is also available.

There is no live stream available for viewers within the UK & Ireland this weekend, however overseas supporters can watch the match via East Fife TV with a monthly or season pass. 

Our hosts on Saturday have kindly provided the following information for fans travelling to New Countess Park this weekend:

1. Most sat navs direct visitors to the wrong side of the ground. The easiest route is to continue on the A1 until SPOTT roundabout then turn into Dunbar and turning left at the first mini roundabout (Kellie Road). NCP is located at the end of this route.
2. There is adequate car parking available for those who arrive early.
3. The Hallhill Complex, adjacent to NCP, will be open for pre-match drinks and food and is a popular choice for visiting fans.
4. The turnstiles at New Countess Park will open at 2:00pm.
5. A selection of hot and cold drinks and food are available inside the stadium from 2:00pm until the end of the match.

Match Preview - Burntisland Shipyard

Oli Anderson previews tonight’s Fife Cup tie against Burntisland Shipyard

East Fife have yet another break in league action tonight, as we host East of Scotland Second Division side Burntisland Shipyard in the second round of the Fife Cup. Coming off the back of an incredible 4-0 win against Stranraer at the weekend, the boys are on a high, as they currently remain undefeated in 6 (over 90 minutes). Our opponents find themselves in a comfortable midtable position of the 3rd tier of the East of Scotland Leagues, sitting in 8th place. Perhaps fortunate for the Fife, the game has been moved away from Recreation Park in Burntisland, where the Shippy are on good form, recording 12 points from their last 6 at home. On the other hand, they are struggling on the road this season and have only recorded 1 win away from their home comforts.

Last week, due to the adverse weather, the 2017/18 Fife Cup champions, Burntisland, were unable to fulfil their fixture against fellow Fifers Kennoway Star Hearts. This means that their most recent game came while we were sunning it up on our European adventure! Shippy hosted high-flying Stirling University. The university side ran out 4-2 winners, and Burntisland Shipyard’s match reporter described their defending as their “Achillies Heel” marking poor defending and indecision as catalysts to their loss. This was backed up by manager Lee Richardson who said:

“What is most disappointing is that Stirling did not have to work for their goals. We (Burntisland) are gifting teams goals game after game, and until it stops, we are going to struggle.”

In East Fife’s casual win on Saturday, overcoming Stranraer 4 goals to nil, there was some truly impressive football on display, and after the game, when asked about the performance, Greig McDonald said:

“I thought we were excellent from minute one, I really do. We picked up where we left off last week. We have been playing at a high level for a number of weeks now, and are now only at 1 defeat in 8, but unfortunately there are too many draws in that. We wanted to stamp our authority early doors, and I thought that we did that. We got off to a good start, it was important to do that having the wind behind us in the first half. It wasn’t just the starters though, everyone who came on was bang at it.”

Fun Facts from the Fife Cup

• The Fife Cup was the first trophy lifted by the Methil Milan, back in the 1907/08 season, when the Fifers overcame Lochgelly United 4-2.
  • A further tidbit from that game, the captain of the Fife side that day was Tommy Fitzpatrick, the grandfather of current Associate Director Stephen Mill.
• East Fife’s last two League Titles have come hand in hand with a Fife Cup victory too, as in 2015-16 we overcame Cowdenbeath 1-0 and in 2007-08 we overcame Raith Rovers 2-0.
• We have appeared in 35 Finals, in the competition’s 141-year history, and have won the Final on 16 occasions, which gives us a 46% success rate in the finals.
  • In bizarre fashion, in the years 1953/54 and 1974/75, East Fife played in the Final and drew! (2-2 with Raith in ’54, and 3-3 with Cowdenbeath in ’75).

The Quarter Finals of the Fife Cup

Dundonald Bluebell 4-4 Cowdenbeath (Cowdenbeath win 6-5 via penalty kicks)

East Fife vs Burntisland Shipyard

Raith Rovers vs Hill of Beath Hawthorn (date tbc)

St Andrews United vs Dunfermline Athletic (Postponed on April 25th new date tbc)

Kelty Hearts bowed out in the First Round, losing out on Penalties to Raith Rovers in July.

Previous Encounter

The most recent encounter I can find came in the preseason of the 2021/22 season, where Darren Young’s East Fife side romped to a 15-0 victory in the friendly against Shippy. There were plenty goalscorers on the day, with current skipper Stuart Murdoch among the scorers, grabbing a brace. Fife legend Kevin Smith also grabbed a brace on the day. Then-trialist Mikey Cunningham also bagged two on the day, as well as goals from Danny Denholm, and a hattrick from Sean Brown in the second half all contributed to making it a dismal day for Shippy.

Squad News

Outs- There are no injuries to note tonight for the first time this season!!!

Ins- With an important Scottish Cup tie at the weekend, Manager Greig McDonald has augmented the squad with a number of Under 20s players. Greig also hinted at the weekend that tonight could see the return to action of long-term absentees Pat Slattery and Charlie Murray.

Team Colours

East Fife will wear the Taxi Centre-sponsored pink away kit tonight, with black shorts and socks, while the goalkeeper will be clad in all yellow kit for the tie.

Burntisland Shipyard will wear their traditional colours for the tie, donning a white shirt, with black shorts and socks. The Shippy goalie will be in all lime green for the contest.

Match Admission

Season Tickets are not valid for our Fife Cup campaign. Tickets are Pay at the Gate with prices below:

NOTE: Like Saturday, only the away end will be open for supporters.

Adults- £7

Concessions (Over 65s/Disabled/U16)- £4

Live Streaming

Live Streaming of the game will be available on East Fife TV for our international fans. This can be accessed through a monthly or season pass. You can access this HERE!

There is no live stream for viewers within the UK or Ireland.

Officials

The on-pitch official on Saturday will be Alan Budd while his assistants running the line are Taylor Martin and Scott Morris.

Refreshments

The stadium bar will be open from 7pm pre-kick off this evening! We welcome you to join us for a drink before the match.

MON THE FIFE!