DUFC

ALEX SMITH PREVIEWS TODAY'S MATCH

24th November 2001

Not surprisingly, Alex Smith was delighted that Jim Hamilton's appeal against his sending-off last week was upheld. "It's good news that Hammy is eligible to play if selected. Apart from Derek Lilley who, following a scan on his knee is under orders to rest, and McIntyre who remains injured, I have a full squad to choose from for the visit to East End Park."

The United Team Boss is fully aware how difficult the trip to Fife to play the Pars will be. "This will be a difficult game for us. Two weeks ago they visited Tannadice and played very well in taking the three points. We have got to go to Dunfermline with the will and determination to win all three points and reverse the position of two weeks ago."

Having moved up to fifth in the SPL, Alex outlined what he believed his team have to do to stay there. "It is important for us now that we have managed to get into the top six, to try and stay there. To close the gap on fourth will require a level of consistency and we must work to achieve that."

With the Quarter Finals of the CIS League Cup coming up in midweek, Alex was looking for a positive result to take into the Easter Road match. "A win today would be a real confidence boost looking ahead to Tuesday's match however we must first concentrate on our SPL match."