The upcoming Fife Derby between Raith Rovers and Dunfermline Athletic is more than just a local rivalry; it's a critical encounter in the Scottish Championship. With Raith Rovers pushing for a play-off spot and Dunfermline Athletic battling to avoid relegation, the stakes couldn't be higher.

Raith Rovers' Play-off Ambitions

Raith Rovers' manager, Barry Robson, has emphasized the importance of focus as his team prepares for this high-pressure match. Despite the allure of a potential play-off spot, Robson insists that his players must concentrate solely on the task at hand: winning the next game.

"We are trying to get as far up the league as we can, but I don't want anybody to get distracted by that," Robson stated. "What I want the players to be focused on is winning the next game. When you do that, then you can get to the places we all want to get to."

Dunfermline's Relegation Battle

On the other side, Dunfermline Athletic is fighting to stay afloat in the league. Manager Michael Tidser has called for his players to approach the derby with a clear and creative mindset.

"It's important that you let the shackles off but be prepared for a physical game," Tidser said. "At the end of the day, it's a derby, and I want to win it. I'm sure Barry Robson will say the same thing, so it makes for an entertaining game."

Key Players and Recent Form

Raith Rovers have struggled with consistency this season, partly due to injuries to key players like Lewis Vaughan and Jack Hamilton. However, the team has shown resilience, with notable performances from Jamie Gullan and Finlay Pollock.

Dunfermline, meanwhile, has had mixed results but will be buoyed by their recent 3-1 victory over Raith Rovers in February, thanks to a hat-trick from Chris Kane.

What to Expect

This derby promises to be a fiercely contested match, with both teams desperate for points. Raith Rovers will look to capitalize on their game in hand to close the gap on the play-off spots, while Dunfermline will aim to secure a vital win in their fight against relegation.

Conclusion

As the teams prepare to face off at Stark's Park, the Fife Derby is set to deliver high drama and intense football action. With both managers urging their players to stay focused and play with freedom, this match could be a turning point in the season for both Raith Rovers and Dunfermline Athletic.