Austin McCann plotting Pars' route to the top
Dunfermline FC captain Austin McCann is hoping tonight's friendly against East Fife helps the Pars shape up for the First Division title hunt.
Austin McCann in action last season.
- By Paul Reoch
- Published in the Courier : 13.07.10
- Published online : 13.07.10 @ 12.39pm
The 30-year-old left-back, who took over the captaincy of the club in May following a 'stand-in' period at the end of last season, told Courier Sport he feels the Pars are in with a good shout if they stay clear of injury and maintain more consistent form.
"It's going to be much the same as last year," he said, ahead of tonight's friendly at East Fife. "There will be maybe four or five teams challenging. We must have a chance if we can stay clear of injuries and suspensions.
"We have a lot of quality in wide areas and have Andy Kirk up front to stick the ball in the net. And with Alex Keddie at the back it gives us more competition.
"Alex was a good signing, as was Chris Smith, so hopefully we can actually do it. But you need a bit of luck with injuries and suspensions."
McCann knows inconsistency played a part in the Pars remaining in the First Division and is out to make amends this season.
"We were on a couple of good runs and we didn't do well against the likes of Ayr United," he added. "If we can sort out things like that we should be okay. That's something we will work on this season."
Pars boss Jim McIntyre is also looking forward to tonight's derby.
"That was the players' first run (against Hibs) and there were mistakes," he said. "But that's what these matches are all about — getting up to speed. It'll take the team a few games before they're feeling anything near what they should be.
"The Hibs game was a good exercise and helps fitness levels. We had good quality opposition who move the ball quickly.
"The East Fife game should be a good one. They have a lovely pitch. It's another part of the preparations and we're looking forward to it. It's always good to get a local game."
McIntyre added that Willie Gibson (achilles tendon) and Alex Burke (calf) are both doubtful for tonight. Defender Alex Keddie is still recovering after dislocating his thumb.
Fifers boss Stevie Crawford is expected to take another look at a few trialists.
The home side will be keen to build on a 5-1 win over Edinburgh United last week and their 7-1 rout of Selkirk on Saturday.
With Crawford still keen to add to his squad before the real competitive action begins, the manager is likely to run the rule over a number of players who have featured in the club's last two pre-season games and are vying for a deal.
Tonight's game has a 7.45 kick-off.
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