The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Raith players urged to give fans something to cheer
Barry Smith has emphasised the importance of giving Raith Rovers’ long-suffering fans something to cheer as they prepare to host Stranraer in their first home game of the League One campaign.
The Stark’s Park faithful endured a miserable year last term, crashing to relegation following the disastrous reigns of Gary Locke and John Hughes.
The killer blow to their Championship status came when they were defeated on penalties in Kirkcaldy against Brechin City to a chorus of jeers.
However, Smith has restored optimism with some astute signings, such as prolific attacking duo Greig Spence and Liam Buchanan, and a heartening Betfred Cup group phase which saw them notch wins against Buckie and Cowdenbeath.
That positivity has been reflected in season ticket sales, with the club this week announcing that they have succeeded in reaching their target of 1,000.
Now, Smith insists it is time to repay the punters.
He said: “We are home and we want to give the fans something to cheer about.
“They have been really good towards the players and have got behind them from the very start of the season.
“We won our last match at home (against Cowdenbeath) and want to give them something to shout about again. The supporters are going to be a massive part of what we want to achieve this season.
“With players like Grant Anderson, Jamie Hamill and Ryan Wallace, Stranraer have brought good experience into their team but we need to be ready for that. We will be wary of their threat and give Stranraer every bit of respect.”
Iain Davidson is suspended for this afternoon’s fixture, but Rovers have an otherwise full-strength squad to choose from.