Latest News
Match Preview - Peterhead
Oli Anderson previews today’s match against Peterhead
Despite it being Scottish Cup weekend for most sides, we are back in league action this afternoon. We hope to continue our unbeaten start to 2024, though it will certainly be a challenge, as this week we play 2nd placed Peterhead at the MGM Timber Bayview Stadium. We are coming off the back of a difficult 1-1 draw with Clyde, in a game that we could have wrapped up, although equally, the Bully Wee had chances to take all three points. Peterhead are coming into today having lost, perhaps surprisingly to Scott Agnew’s Stranraer side 2-0, at Stair Park. The goals came in both halves, as new-signing Chris Johnston and Tam Orr found themselves on the score sheet. Notably, Andy McCarthy was sent off in the final 5 minutes, so the Blue Toon will be without their starting central midfielder today. This could prove pivotal for the Fife, as should they control the midfield battle against Peterhead, they will go on to do damage.
The cinch League Two
|
Position |
Team |
Played |
Pts |
GD |
|
1 |
Stenhousemuir |
20 |
49 |
24 |
|
2 |
Peterhead |
20 |
35 |
12 |
|
3 |
The Spartans |
18 |
32 |
10 |
|
4 |
Dumbarton |
19 |
31 |
10 |
|
5 |
Bonnyrigg Rose |
19 |
23 |
-1 |
|
6 |
Stranraer |
19 |
22 |
-13 |
|
7 |
East Fife |
19 |
21 |
-0 |
|
8 |
Forfar Athletic |
20 |
20 |
-6 |
|
9 |
Elgin City |
19 |
18 |
-20 |
|
10 |
Clyde |
19 |
13 |
-16 |
Last Week’s results
Bonnyrigg Rose 1-1 Dumbarton
East Fife 1-1 Clyde
Forfar Athletic 2-1 Elgin City
Stranraer 2-0 Peterhead
The Spartans 0-2 Stenhousemuir
This Week’s Fixtures
Due to Spartans, Bonnyrigg Rose, Forfar Athletic and Dumbarton all featuring in Scottish Cup action today, as well as Clyde losing out to Aberdeen last night, there are only two cinch League Two games to keep an eye on today. This makes it even more important to get the points on the board, as it leaves the teams around us with their work cut out.
East Fife vs Peterhead.
Stenhousemuir vs Stranraer
The Form
The Fife
We have recorded 8 points from our last 6 league games, in recent form. Our 2 losses have come some time ago, most recently on the 23rd of December, as we lost 3-0 to Bonnyrigg at Bayview. Our other loss was perhaps unfair, as we played exceptionally well in the second half against league leaders Stenhousemuir. Unfortunately, our first half performance seriously let us down, and Austin’s stoppage time goal proved merely a consolation.
Our first draw came against Forfar a fortnight ago. A wind, and rainswept Station Park proved too much for the Methil Milan, who could not capitalise on their man advantage, which they had for a large portion of the game, leading to the sides playing out a goalless affair. Our second draw came last week in a disappointing contest with Clyde, the Fifers never got going in the second period after a fast start, and that led to the spoils being shared, sadly.
Our wins came in truly emphatic fashion. The first of which was a 4-0 thumping of Elgin City, where Brogan Walls bagged a brace, and Austin and Shepherd also found themselves on the packed score sheet. Of course, our other win came 2 weeks ago against Dumbarton, where Kieran Millar’s first half strike, paired with Brogan Walls’ second half wonder finish was enough to bed the Sons at the Rock.
The visitors
Peterhead have only recorded 6 points from their last 6 league games, which means on recent form, despite the massive gulf in points, we have been the stronger side.
They have picked up 2 wins, and 4 losses, not having drawn since the beginning of December.
Their first of two wins stretches back to the 16th of December too! Peterhead overcame Clyde 2-1 at the Balmoor. The highland side started quickly and were two goals up by the half an hour mark. This was too much for the Bully Wee, who did manage to score in the 80th minute, although it was merely a consolation prize, as Peterhead took all three points.
Their second victory came against Dumbarton a fortnight ago, where they toppled the Sons 3-1, also at the Balmoor. This game was quite the contrary to their Clyde win, as the Blue Toon had to rely on all three goals coming in the last 10 minutes of the contest. Dumbarton’s 2nd minute opener was cancelled out by Rory McAllister in the 82nd minute, before Peterhead’s number 9 handed them the lead in the 90th minute from the penalty spot. Jack Brown provided the two-punch knockout, doubling their lead in the 92nd, killing the game.
Their four losses have been rather close it must be said, although 3 of them have come against teams in the bottom half of the table. 2-1 losses to Forfar (8th) and Elgin (9th) as well as a recent 2-0 defeat to Stranraer (6th), does not bode well for the Blue Toon. Their other loss came against The Spartans, who occupy the final playoff place. Blair Henderson provided a late winner in that one.
Previous Encounter
The less said about the last time we met Peterhead the better. A poor day on the road for the Fife seen today’s visitors run out 2-0 winners. The first goal came right before half time, and was converted by Kieran Shanks, who caught a flick on very well, and fired past Allan Fleming.
There was no real action in the second half, until Peterhead doubled their lead. Robert Ward made the goal, rinsing two East Fife defenders inside and out (and giving them a valet), before putting the ball on a plate for player manager Jordon Brown, who tucked the ball in from close.
Squad News
We’re getting back to full fitness slowly but surely, and mainly have good news regarding our squad depth today! Connor McManus is available for selection once more, recovering from the illness which kept him out of last Saturday’s match with Clyde. We will also ready ourselves to welcome back longer-term absentees Johnny Page and Sean Docherty who both returned to training this week and are in contention for today’s game.
We no longer have the services of Kieran Mitchell at our disposal, as the pacey forward was returned to his parent club, after a challenging 6-month loan spell in Methil.
Team Colours
East Fife will don the 120th anniversary black and gold top, matched with shorts and socks, while the goalkeeper will be clad in the yellow kit for the match.
Peterhead will be in all blue at the Wooden Fortress, while their goalkeeper will be wearing orange for the clash.
Match Tickets
Full- and half-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 from the matchday reception for those unable to do so.
Please note, parent & child ticket must be purchased in person from the matchday reception.
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!
Officials
The on-pitch official today will be George Calder while his assistants running the line are Alastair Taylor and Filippo Mazzoni.
Refreshments
The stadium bar will be open from 12:15pm today! We welcome you to join us for a drink before the match. The bar will be open again following the full-time whistle for post-match refreshments.
Pie stalls at both ends of the stadium will be open from 2:00pm today. Both cash and card are accepted.
Programme
Issue Number 13 for the 23/24 edition of the Bayview will be available from vendors outside the ground pre match. This week’s edition includes an interview with recent Liam Newton as well as all of the regular features.
Those unable to attend today’s match can purchase their programme online for home delivery.
Mon the Fife!
New Commercial Partnership with Stjärna Apparel
East Fife FC are delighted to announce a new commercial partnership with Stjärna Apparel.
Inspired by terrace culture, lifestyle and music, all of their clothing is designed using quality materials and workmanship to combine the best style and fit. In Swedish, Stjärna means star, which matches their values Service Trust Affordability Respect.
Scott Young from our commercial team said: “I’m delighted to announce a partnership with Stjärna who are one of the fastest growing clothing brands in the UK. Terrace wear is extremely popular right now and having seen some of the prototypes, we are excited at some of the bespoke products we have lined up.”
Mikey Mlotkiewicz from Stjärna Apparel added: “We are delighted to link up with East Fife Football Club in an exciting partnership for the brand. Offering fans affordable and stylish clothing for on the MGM Timber Bayview Terraces and beyond. We look forward to the products and plans we have in the future with the club."
A variety of new Stjärna Apparel products are now available to pre-order from the club shop.
Win a signed jersey and ball from your favourite SPFL club
As we enter the second half of an enthralling cinch SPFL season, cinch, the title partner of the SPFL is giving you the chance to win a signed jersey and ball from your favourite club. There are multiple prizes for every club in every SPFL league – 150 in total!
Time is running out to enter this great competition so, for your chance to enter click here.
Join the nation and cinch it
†Short Terms and Conditions: GB residents, 18+. Starts 08:00 20/09/23. Ends 23:59 28/01/24. Prizes: 2023/24 Season signed footballs and replica jerseys. 5x football/jersey sets per Premiership/Championship club, 2x football/jersey sets per League 1 and League 2 club. To enter draw and for full T&Cs visit https://spfljerseyandball.cinchpresents.co.uk/ and submit name, email, mobile and club choice. Max 1 entry per draw, 1 prize per person, per draw. Promoter: Cinch Cars Ltd, Form 2, 18 Bartley Wood Business Park, Bartley Way, Hook, Hampshire, RG27 9XA
Ticket Info v Peterhead
Tickets for our cinch League Two match against Peterhead on Saturday 20th January at the MGM Timber Bayview Stadium are now on sale and can be purchased here.
Admission Prices
Adults - £18
Concessions* - £14
Under 16s** - £5
Parent & Child** - £21
Parent & 2 Children** - £24
*Over 65s/Full-Time Students/Disabled – proof of age/eligibility may be requested
**Proof of age may be requested.
All member of East Fife Community Football Club & East Fife Girls & Womens’ Football Club who are under 16 go free with a paying adult or as part of an organised group for all cinch League Two matches at Bayview this season. Tickets for this are arranged through EFCFC.
Full and half season tickets are valid for this match.
There are no cash turnstiles at Bayview and supporters are strongly encouraged to purchase their tickets online. Online sales are available right up until kick off. Tickets can also be purchased over the phone by calling 01333 426323 or directly from the club office.
Please note, parent and child tickets cannot be purchased online and should be bought directly from the club office.
A live stream is available to viewers outside the UK & Ireland via East Fife TV.
Match Highlights - Clyde
Highlights from yesterday's match against Clyde along with post-match reaction from Greig McDonald, Nathan Austin and Charlie Murray.
Match Preview - Clyde
Oli Anderson previews today’s cinch League 2 match against Clyde.
A massive win on the road last week against Dumbarton has set us up well in preparation for our contest versus Clyde this afternoon at the MGM Timber Bayview Stadium. While we have built up an 8-point gap against our opponents, who occupy the bottom slot, a win is absolutely paramount to line us up for safety, and potentially looking at a playoff charge, as we are only half-way through the season.
It must be noted however, that the Bully Wee are coming off the back of an impressive 3-2 win over Bonnyrigg Rose, where they overpowered the side from New Dundas Park in the first period. However, I firmly believe that if East Fife can hold off the early onslaught which Clyde have shown in recent weeks, we will be able to hold on and take a result from this game.
The cinch League Two Table
|
Position |
Team |
Played |
Pts |
GD |
|
1 |
Stenhousemuir |
19 |
46 |
22 |
|
2 |
Peterhead |
19 |
35 |
14 |
|
3 |
The Spartans |
17 |
32 |
12 |
|
4 |
Dumbarton |
18 |
30 |
10 |
|
5 |
Bonnyrigg Rose |
18 |
22 |
-1 |
|
6 |
East Fife |
18 |
20 |
0 |
|
7 |
Stranraer |
18 |
19 |
-15 |
|
8 |
Elgin City |
18 |
18 |
-19 |
|
9 |
Forfar Athletic |
19 |
17 |
-7 |
|
10 |
Clyde |
18 |
12 |
-16 |
Last Week’s Results
Clyde 3-2 Bonnyrigg Rose
Dumbarton 1-2 EFFC
Elgin City 2-1 Stranraer
Peterhead 0-1 The Spartans
Stenhousemuir 2-1 Forfar Athletic
This Week’s Fixtures
Bonnyrigg Rose vs Dumbarton
East Fife vs Clyde
Forfar Athletic vs Elgin City
Stranraer vs Peterhead
The Spartans vs Stenhousemuir
The Form
The Fife
We have recorded 7 points from our last 6 league games. Our 3 losses have come some time ago, most recently on the 23rd of December, as we lost 3-0 to Bonnyrigg at Bayview. We also lost to Bonnyrigg 4-2 at New Dundas Park, back at the end of November. The scorers for Fife were Austin and McManus, on either side of the half time whistle. Our final loss was perhaps unfair, as we played exceptionally well in the second half against league leaders Stenhousemuir. Unfortunately, our first half performance seriously let us down, and Austin’s stoppage time goal proved merely a consolation.
Our draw came against Forfar a fortnight ago. A wind, and rainswept Station Park proved too much for the Methil Milan who could not capitalise on their man advantage, which they had for a large portion of the game, leading to the sides playing out a goalless affair.
Our wins came in truly emphatic fashion. The first of which was a 4-0 thumping of Elgin City where Brogan Walls bagged a brace and Austin and Shepherd also found themselves on the packed score sheet. Of course, our other win came last week against Dumbarton where Kieran Millar’s first half strike, paired with Walls’ second half wonder finish was enough to bed the Sons at the Rock.
The Visitors
Clyde have recorded 2 wins, 2 draws and 2 losses in their last 6 games, picking up 5 points from 5 games in the league as well as a 2-0 win over the Jeanfield Swifts in the Scottish Cup third round.
Their losses came against Stenhousemuir and Peterhead, 1st and 2nd respectively in the league. Both games finished 2-1 in favour of the promotion chasers.
Their draws have come with many more goals however, as the Bully Wee drew 2-2 with Stranraer, and 4-4 with Dumbarton. Fife-born Martin Rennie found himself on the scoresheet in both games, making him a dangerous prospect for the Fifers to deal with.
Their victory was the aforementioned game against Bonnyrigg Rose. Ex-Fifer Connor Young bagged on the day, along with Logan Dunachie and Alex King.
Previous Encounter
East Fife romped to their 3rd League win, and 2nd 4-0 win, of the season when the two sides last met. It was a true 6 pointer, as a loss for the Fife would have seen them caught by the Bully Wee. It was clear that the Methil Men knew this however and they coasted through the game, putting in a much-improved performance from what we had seen previously this season.
We started fast, and with a bang, as inside 4 minutes the Fifers should have had a penalty. Alan Trouten was completely cleared out inside the 18-yard box, although the referee adjudged that there was no foul and allowed play to continue. This, however, was all for naught as we took the lead two minutes later through the Trout, without the need of the penalty spot.
Jack Leighfield failed to effectively clear his lines and fed the Fash on the edge of the area. Austin tried to let it go first time, though it was caught in the Clyde wall. The ball only got as far as Trouten though, who (with his back to goal) managed to flick the ball over Leighfield and into the back of the net. 1-0 Fife.
Despite our quick start, we were nearly pegged back instantly. Forbes had a dig from the back post, although it was prevented by one of the many men in Black and Gold protecting the posts.
A further five minutes later, East Fife did the unthinkable, and went two goals ahead on the road for the first time in competitive action since October 2022. Brogan Walls found himself waiting in the area to receive a Ryan Schiavone cutback, after the winger outmuscled his full back. With the ball slid back, Walls met it (scoring his first of the season), and East Fife doubled their lead. Bosh.
We then took a break in the action as it became abundantly clear that this game was only going to go one way. Firstly, after 34 minutes, Trouten was denied by Leighfield, after his half volley was well saved. Five minutes later, Austin had his chance to make it three, but once again, Leighfield did excellently well, this time tipping it around the post.
That saw us into half time, cruising, two goals up at New Douglas Park.
East Fife had to do some defending early in the second period, denying Rennie from the byline on the 55th minute mark.
After 63 minutes, the game was well and truly sealed the game, a milestone for the club and for the individual scorer. Gregor Nicol worked well on the wing and slung in a belter of a cross for Fash. The Methil man, born and bred, burst the net reaching his half a century of goals for the club in the process.
A special mention must be given to East Fife’s Number Nine, as Scott Shepherd ran himself into the ground for the Fifers with his work off the ball, in my humble opinion, being one of the highlights of the season so far.
On top of this, under 20s graduate Brendan Ramsay came on off the bench with five minutes on the clock, and in his brief spell on the park looked more than up to the task, showing quick feet and a desire to play the ball forward.
Sadly, for Brendan, his substitution into the game was not the best part of the last 5 minutes of the game, as Sean Docherty decided to abandon ship at the back with a matter of seconds on the regulation clock and became a fox in the box. It was a matter of right place at the right time for Docherty whose calm finish was akin to that of a prime Dimitar Berbatov. He knew what he was doing, and why he was there, handing East Fife their first away win in the league since March 2023.
Squad News
While the squad is still severely depleted, we can welcome another attacking threat into the fold, as Mikey Cunningham returns from his loan spell at Cowdenbeath.
We are hoping that in the coming weeks players will return from injuries and illness, and we will be fighting fit soon.
Team Colours
East Fife will don the 120th anniversary black and gold top, matched with socks and black shorts this afternoon, while the goalkeeper will be clad in the yellow kit for the match.
Clyde will wear all maroon when they arrive at the Wooden Fortress, with the Bully Wee ‘keeper wearing blue.
Match Tickets
Full and half-season tickets are valid for our league campaign, with admission 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 from the matchday reception for those unable to do so.
Please note, parent & child ticket must be purchased in person from the matchday reception.
Live Streaming
As this match takes place outside UK blocked hours, a live stream of the game is available worldwide through East Fife TV for £15.
Regular viewers outside the UK & Ireland can also watch the match as part of their regular monthly or annual subscription.
Note: Due to a change in SPFL rules from covid-impacted seasons, season ticket holders no longer have access to live matches through their virtual element add-on.
Officials
The on-pitch official today is Dan McFarlane while his assistants running the line are Colin Drummond and Michael MacDermid.
Refreshments
The stadium bar will be open from 12:15pm today! We welcome you to join us for a drink before the match. The bar will be open again following the full-time whistle for post-match refreshments.
Pie stalls at both ends of the stadium will be open from 2:00pm today. Both cash and card are accepted.
Programme
Issue Number 12 for the 23/24 edition of The Bayview will be available from vendors outside the ground pre-match. This week’s edition includes an interview with recent under 20s graduate Brendan Ramsay as well as all of the regular features.
Those unable to attend today’s match can purchase their programme online for home delivery.
Mon the Fife!