Triple boost for East Fife ahead of Airdrie clash

East Fife received a boost yesterday with the news that key players Chris Kane, Pat Slattery and skipper Kevin Smith had signed new deals keeping them at the club until May 2019.

That development delighted manager Barry Smith, who put pen to paper on his own two-year contract when he was unveiled as boss in December.

Back then, the Methil men were at the wrong end of the table.

Now they are third, locked in a four-way battle with Airdrie – who they face at Bayview this afternoon – as well as Brechin and Queen’s Park for a promotion play-off spot.

The sides are all on 46 points, with Smith’s men in front on goal difference.

The manager is relishing the nailbiting finale to the season.

He said: “I am delighted that three important players for us have decided to stay at the club until 2019.

“I also signed a two-year deal when I first came into the club in December.

“Back then we were equal second bottom of the league, but we are now in with a great chance of securing a play-off spot.

“I think if you had asked anyone associated with the club if they would have taken that back in December, they would have.

“As a club that was just promoted last year, we have had a good campaign so far and hopefully it will get even better.

“We now face Airdrie, who are a good side with a lot of experience,” he said.

“We are once again down to the bare bones through injuries, and we also have Chris Duggan suspended after his sending off last week against Albion Rovers.

“That will leave us short up front and although Kevin Smith is not match fit, he may have to play.

“Last week’s win was our first for a while, and hopefully it will give the lads a boost ahead of a tough game against Airdrie.”