Dunfermline vs Partick preview - Mason back as Pars look to build lead

Posted Saturday, March 26, 2011 by PA

Title-chasing Dunfermline welcome midfielder Gary Mason back from suspension as they look to take three points off Partick Thistle.

Mason is back in the squad as the Pars look to move to the top of the table - if Raith Rovers lose at Falkirk.

However manager Jim McIntyre is without six players with Neil McGregor, Steven Bell, Nicky Phinn, Joe Cardle, Andy Kirk and Jason Thomson all expected to miss out through injury.

McIntyre said: "We are missing quite a bit of attacking threat but we will just have to get on with things.

"We are at the stage of the season where points are incredibly important and I would love us to take three in this game.

"It will not be easy as Partick Thistle make things really difficult for you."

Partick Thistle include new signing Tommy Stewart in their squad.

The Northern Irishman will be included while defender Willie Kinniburgh is also available to manager Ian McCall.

However Paul Paton, Paul Cairney and Bryan Hodge remain out with knocks.

McCall's assistant Ian Maxwell is anticipating a tight game.

He said: "We have one win against each other this season and we played out a goalless draw the last time we were at East End Park so there is very little between the sides.

"We played well at Stirling during the week and will look to build on that in this game. We want a win as we want to finish higher up the table than the fifth spot we presently occupy."