Travel disruption warnings as Rovers head west to face Dumbarton

Diversions caused by major roadworks on the M74 are expected to impact on the journey to Dumbarton, and with Rangers also playing at Ibrox at 3.00 p.m, Transport Scotland is predicting severe delays travelling through Glasgow.

Raith fans are advised to plan their journey in advance – the team bus is leaving earlier than normal – and taking an alternative route via Stirling.

For boss Gary Locke, the focus is simply on collecting three points to continue a good run of form that has seen his side remain unbeaten in four games.

“We’ll leave a bit earlier and take a different route but that will be the only disruption to our preparations,” he said.

“We’ve got to make sure we go there and put in a good performance because Dumbarton have already shown how good they are, especially at home.

“They’ve beaten Dundee United, they’ve run Hibs close, and had some great results at home. If we’re not at it, we’ll get beat.”

Rovers face two games in the space of four days as Ayr United visit Stark’s Park on Tuesday night, but Locke does not plan to rotate the squad if the team win on Saturday.

“For me, you want to pick the team you think will win the game,” he said. “We’ve not got a big enough squad to make six or seven changes anyway.

“If the boys play well and win on Saturday, you’ll want to stick with the same team if you can.

“If they are not doing so well then that’s when you look to make changes.

“We’ll see how Saturday goes, that’s the only game we’re focusing on at the minute and hopefully we can get the three points.”

Locke will be guarding his players against any comedown from the intensity levels shown in the Fife derby prior to the international break.

“We can’t go into any game with a different mentality or attitude,” he said.

“It’s a difficult place to play - there’s only one stand, and if it’s a windy day, and your attitude isn’t right, it can work in their favour.

“We’ve got to make sure our attitude is spot on and prepare for this game the same we have every other game this season and it’s up to myself and Darren to make sure that happens.

“We’d have liked some better performances, but the bottom line at this stage of the season is getting results so I’ll take a scrappy performance with a win.”

Meanwhile, with Christmas fast approaching, Raith are offering fans the opportunity for their name to become a fixture on the stairs of Stark’s Park.

Each fan will receive their name printed on a step in the Penman Stand or Turnbull Hutton Stand, and a certificate signed by manager Gary Locke to present as a gift in time for Christmas Day.

The steps are now on sale, and are priced at £59.95. Season ticket holders (or those buying for a season ticket holder) will receive the discounted price of £49.95.

To book your spot now, or buy one for a friend or family member, contact the commercial team on 01592 263514 (option 2) or email [email protected].