Remember is a word that will be emblazoned on Raith Rovers’ shirts as both Hearts and Raith pay tribute to those who lost their lives with McCrae’s Battalion the first “footballers” battalion in the First World War.
While remembering these who sacrificed their lives is important, Rovers midfielder Kevin Moon insists the visitors will also be trying to forget some of their recent performances.
Rovers are without a win in five league games, and were beaten 4-0 when they faced Hearts at Stark’s Park in August.
Rovers have shipped four or more goals on five occasions this season, while Hearts have rattled five past Cowdenbeath, Livingston and Dumbarton in each of their last three games.
“I don’t think we helped ourselves the day Hearts beat us 4-0 at Stark’s Park but they’ve proved this season that not only are they winning games but they are scoring goals as well,” said Moon.
“That’s something we have to combat on Saturday and hopefully impose ourselves on the game as well.”
He added: “It’s all new playing the likes of Rangers and Hearts, and hopefully we’ve learned from the disappointing games we’ve had.
“So we need to start going on a wee run like we did at the start of the season and getting our season back on track.”
Rovers saw off Linlithgow Rose 2-0 in the Scottish Cup last weekend, but the scoreline did not tell the whole story as the Kirkcaldy club were given a scare.
Moon admits some of the recent showings have been below par, but knows what a result at Tynecastle today could do for the team.
“It was a tough game against Linlithgow,” he said. “We felt we let ourselves down badly, but we’ve got to take the positives from it and build on that.
“Obviously we’ve got David McGurn back in goals and we’re getting a few of the injured boys back as well, so hopefully that will help.”
He continued: “The quality is in the squad, we know that, it’s just a case of putting a few performances together and getting everybody back confident.
Christian Nade remains Raith’s biggest doubt, despite returning to training this week as he tries to shake off an ankle injury in time to face his old club.
Rovers boss Grant Murray will relish his return to Tynecastle, and admits the commemorations for McCrae’s Battalion will make it extra special.
“When you were part of Hearts football club as a player, the players had no qualms whatsoever about showing your respects, going to Haymarket for the memorial,” he said.
“It’s a big weekend with the football side of it on Saturday and then Haymarket on the Sunday.
“So it will be a moving day and there is a lot of stuff happening on the day leading up to the game but I’m sure when that’s done the players will be focused on the 90 minutes.
“Everyone expects Hearts, Rangers and Hibs to finish in the top three, and the way the league is just now, Rangers and Hearts are very strong and Hibs are picking up momentum. But we want to pick up points from these clubs as well.”