Raith Rovers boss John McGlynn believes his players have the mental toughness to cope with the pressure-cooker atmosphere of Saturday’s encounter with Dunfermline at East End Park.
Rovers sit just a point behind the Pars at the top of the first division table with only three games remaining.
Despite the high stakes, McGlynn insists his “over-achievers” can deal with the stress of the situation and triumph against the odds once again.
“I have said this many times this season, but we have possibly surpassed expectations,” he said. “At the start of the season, we would definitely have taken the situation we find ourselves in now only one point behind going to East End Park with just three games to go.
“To be honest, we would have bitten your hand off if you had offered us a top-four finish but, such has been the players’ consistency, we have found ourselves at the head of the table for most of the season.”
The manager added, “We now have a big challenge at East End Park but it is one to relish. There will be a big, big atmosphere and it looks like being a full house.
“Hopefully, that will spur the players on and we are really looking forward to it. Every derby game is important, but we are now down to the critical stage of the season with regards to the league title and there will be a lot of pressure.
“Mental strength is a massive factor in modern-day football, and we were at Hampden last year for the Scottish Cup semi-final when we played in front of a big crowd.
“We also won the second division title and have taken part in play-off games, so we hope that will help us cope with the pressure of this match.”
McGlynn is also hopeful he will have a full squad to select from. Stephen Simmons and Laurie Ellis both made comebacks from injury against Stirling Albion on Saturday and the Stark’s Park gaffer will have two more players available for this weekend.
Dunfermline have issued updated ticket information after being “inundated with calls” from fans of both clubs hoping to attend Saturday’s showdown.
The North West stand and Main Stand (mid section) have already sold out but, as of this morning, there were still tickets for other areas of the ground.
However, there were fewer than 30 tickets left for visiting supporters.
For the latest information, visit www.dafc.co.uk, phone 01383 745900 or 01383 724295, or email tickets@dafc.co.uk.