We’ll go to Ibrox with a firm belief
Goalscorer Scott McBride eludes a pair of Peterhead rivals (picture by Kenny Mackay).
EAST FIfe head for Ibrox on Tuesday keen to enjoy the occasion – but with a faith in their ability to do well.
The Fifers take on Ally McCoist’s squad in the Scottish Communities League Cup and hope their winning start at Peterhead, coupled with Rangers’ bewildering predicament, will spur them to do well.
The manager had also hopedto speak to a cluster of trialists, including Bob Malcolm and Collin Samuel, among others, about possible terms.
East Fife had spoken to many players who had impressed them, said Durie, but a number hoped to remain full-time.
However, the bizarre circumstances surrounding Rangers had left many clubs unsure about their final budgets, making them less keen to make full-time offers.
The delay was frustrating for clubs and players alike, said Durie, but matters should become clearer soon.
Striker Sean Jamieson has been recruited from the Edinburgh junior ranks, while
Durie said young Ross Brown had acquitted himself very well after taking over from injured Gareth Wardlaw at Peterhead.
Although pleased with the 2-1 win, Durie had concerns about the Fifers’ start to the game and the last 15 minutes.
“Pre-season games did go fairly well for us but you can’t tell until the first proper competitive game, and there are still things we need to work on,” he said.
Durie was glad of the extra time afforded by a free Saturday on August 4 to prepare for the Rangers trip, hopefully allowing Paul McManus, Robert Sloan and Wardlaw more timeto recover from injuries.
There was an additional regular training session, while the younger players took part in a game at Hill of Beath.
Of the Rangers match, Durie said: “It’s a fantastic draw for the club.
“We told the players they had to focus on the Peterhead game first, which they did, and we can look forward now to going there and hopefully putting in a good performance.”
Durie thought Rangers looked a little rusty in their Ramsdens Cup tie at Brechin but said they still had plenty of quality in the side and would be better prepared for East Fife, who were expecting a tough game.
Nevertheless, added Durie, despite it being a superb stadium, an occasion to savour and a great experience for the players who would take part, the Fifers would go there with a belief.
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Weather for Kirkcaldy
Wednesday 22 May 2013
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 3 C to 14 C
Wind Speed: 28 mph
Wind direction: North west
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 6 C to 11 C
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