Young consigns Raith win to history books

East Fife head to Airdrie looking to build on their first success over Raith Rovers in 30 years, with manager Darren Young admitting he was focusing on the Diamonds within minutes of Saturday’s historic 2-1 success ending.

Picking up three points after two defeats was more important to Young than local rivalry in a derby.

The manager said: “I am delighted to have played a part in a memorable day for the club but to me it was really important that we got back to winning ways.

“I know the fans probably enjoyed the win more than other successes and that it meant a lot to the people at the club from the directors to the staff and the volunteers.

“They soaked it all up while, like most managers, I moved on quickly to preparing for the next game. I was planning to ensure that we could go on another run while they were still celebrating.”

Young has done his homework on

Airdrie.

He said: “Ian Murray would not have enjoyed his first two games as Airdrie manager as they lost to Stenhousemuir and then Forfar at home.

“However, they had a great win at Stranraer last Saturday so his ideas are getting across.

“He will now be looking to build on that by beating us. If we played like we did for large parts of last week’s game, we will do OK.”

Young will be forced to make a change in goal after Brett Long was dismissed for celebrating in front of the Raith fans after Aaron Dunsmore’s winner.

The Methil boss said: “Craig McDowall will get his first start and the players know how I work in that if they play well, they keep hold of a starting jersey. Brett got a bit carried away and, once he had time to reflect on it, he apologised and everyone moved on.

“What happened is however a lesson to him and everyone else in the squad in that they could face a long spell out of the team if they lose their place. To do that to yourself will hurt more.”

Rory Currie remains absent because of a broken toe.

First Fife start for Craig McDowall.