Raith Rovers are six points clear at the top of League One, however manager Barry Smith has left nothing to chance ahead of the visit of Arbroath to Stark’s Park this afternoon.
The Kirkcaldy boss made the long trip to Stranraer in midweek to watch the Red Lichties in action and he was glad that he did as he was reminded just how strong Dick Campbell’s side are.
Smith said: “It is a long journey but it was a great opportunity to see two sides in our league in action. Stranraer scored a great goal early on however Arbroath struck at things and ran out deserved 4-1 winners.
“The biggest eye-opener for me was the strength of their substitutes’ bench. Leighton McIntosh, Mark Whatley and David Gold all came on, however Ryan McCord and Omar Kader were not used. That shows a real depth in their pool and they are also a side who win a lot of games away from home so it was a really worthwhile trip.”
Raith go into the game with a sense of frustration lingering after last weekend’s 2-2 draw at Albion Rovers still lingering.
Smith said: “The goal we fell behind to should not have been allowed due to a handball. We got ourselves in front and then saw a penalty awarded in injury time that again we felt was not the right decision.
“It was annoying but playing games is the best way to move on and that is what we are looking to do. We played well when Arbroath were at our place earlier in the season and we won 2-0. The game at Gayfield was a bit of a lottery due to the wind but we managed to squeeze a win out there as well.
“It would be great to come out on top of them for a third time.”
Kevin McHattie is out, with John Herron a major doubt.
