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However, with our enthusiastic young squad, it is hoped that we avoid the complacency that causes us problems. While the matches against Stenhousemuir and St Mirren were only friendlies, the gulf in class was apparent. Even our U21s defeated First Division Arbroath at Gayfield. There is no denying that we should win this game and win it comfortably. Of course, it does not always work out like that.
The game is made more complicated by the fact that this match is of questionable worth to us. A cup run is always useful financially and gives the fans and players a lift. On the other hand, we have a very small squad and while the cups are nice, the league is our main goal this season. Playing extra games in cup competitions simply takes more energy out of players and there is always the chance that we could pick up some knocks.
Injuries will limit our team selection and Scotland call ups have claimed the obvious replacements. Sengewald, Pearson, Kinniburgh and Fagan are all unavailable. Terry Butcher could well decide to take it easy and rest several players. It is likely that Ferguson will be given a chance to impress up front.
Butcher said ‘It’s their home game and they’ll be the underdogs so they’ll be fired up for it. After beating Celtic, my team has become a marked side where people want to gun us down because we have beaten the champions.’
East Fife have made a great start to the season and are currently unbeaten at the top of the Third Division. They will be feeling very confident about giving us a tough game and it would not be that surprising if they came close to causing an upset. However, whichever team we field we will be too strong for the Fifers and edge it 2-1.