Dunfermline Athletic vs Stenhousemuir | Scottish Cup

Match Report

An unwavering display from Dunfermline sees the Warriors exit the Scottish Cup despite their inimitable efforts.

Dunfermline were at the helm for majority of the game and showed their quality with two well deserved goals in the opening forty-five minutes. Hamilton and Otoo were the sharp shooters for The Pars, with Anderson coming closest for the Warriors.

In form Yates watched as his near perfect free kick glanced inches past the post from 20 yards out, with 200 Warriors fans hoping it crept in the right side of the post.

Dunfermline were quick off the mark in the 15th minute after an uncharacteristic defensive display from the Warriors allowed Hamilton to nudge the hosts ahead. Chalmers swung in a dangerous corner which we didn’t deal with properly, allowing Hamilton to rocket his shot high into the roof of the net. 0-1.

The Warriors glowing chance of the game came in the 32nd minute when neat play in the middle afforded Alston space to play the ball through to Anderson, who was 1 v1 with the keeper, however his lifted effort was easily saved by the Pars goalie.

We looked to be going into half time with a one goal deficit, but Dunfermline had other plans and doubled their lead four minutes before half time through Otoo, whose quick feet in the box gave him room to shoot. His effort however, did deflect off a Warrior’s body and under the legs of Deejay. 2-0.

Not the desired first half for the Warriors and the second half became much the same with Dunfermline in complete control. The hosts ensured they booked their place in the fifth round by adding the third and final goal of the match.

Dunfermline were quick off the mark and scored in the 46th minute when danger man Ritchie- Holser crossed in and found unmarked McCann who rifled his shot in at the back post. 3-0.

Though the result was disappointing, we dust ourselves off and turn all of our attention to a high-flying league campaign. We next battle Cove Rangers back at Ochilview on Saturday. Make sure you join us to support Gary and the boys.

Match Report by Louise Davidson

Photographs by Thomas Gorman and Kristopher Dowell.

Preview

This weekend sees the return of the beloved Scottish Cup as the Warriors cross swords with Championship side Dunfermline for a highly desired place in the fifth round.

This is the first time we have faced Dunfermline in the Scottish Cup in 15 years, the last time we encountered The Pars, they advanced to the fifth round through an extra time goal, leaving the scoreline at a narrow 1-2.

This fixture will also give us the opportunity to record our first away win over Dunfermline. Having only beaten them previously back at Ochilview Park in 2014, the only current member of the squad who featured in this win was Ross Meechan.

The Pars haven’t experienced their desired run of league form and currently sit 9th in the Championship, having only recorded one victory in their last 5 games. However, Dunfermline are no strangers to a great cup run having made the final twice, albeit 20 years ago. In recent years though, they have struggled to make it out of the fourth round.

Manager Gary Naysmith is also no stranger to the glory of the Scottish Cup, having lifted this trophy in 1998, and will be keen to advance to the next round. Buchanan and Wedderburn will also be eager to ensure the Warriors book their place in the fifth round as they contest their former team.

The last time the Warriors reached the fifth round of the Scottish Cup was more than 10 years ago, but will the romance of the cup strike again? Please make sure you join us East End Park to support Gary and the boys, and to drive them onto the fifth round of the Scottish Cup.