But anyone who saw that game will know the score flattered us somewhat. Dunfermline were the better team until Kerr’s superb goal – afterwards they collapsed but if we are to take the three points on Saturday we will need to play well for the 90 minutes.
Dunfermline will be boosted by their CIS Cup semi final win over Livi in mid-week but that may have a counterproductive effect. They may well find it harder to motivate themselves for another run of the mill league game after the highs experienced at Easter Road. We on the other hand still have our semi final to look forward to. Competition for places doesn’t really exist at Fir Park at the moment, with any fit outfield player almost guaranteed a game. The trialists we played in the reserves at Kilmarnock could conceivably be in the squad – vital bodies given Butcher’s clear lack of confidence in the next batch of youngsters coming through.
Our hosts have lost their last league games to the Edinburgh teams but had managed to pick up a few decent results before that. Astonishingly, only Rangers and Dundee United have failed to win at East End Park this season, a remarkable record and one that we will hopefully be able to continue.
Mark Burchill has the potential to give us problems with his pace but if we can deal with him we’ll nullify a lot of their goal threat. They do – like everyone – have a height advantage over our team but that must be something we’re getting used to by now!
When it comes down to it, the Pars have only won three times this season and they are near the bottom of the league for a reason. If we want to keep our hopes for a top six finish alive then anything other than a win is unacceptable. There’ll be some nervous moments but we’ll do the business – 2-0 to us.