Match Preview

By Stuart Williamson
September 18 2004

RAITH ROVERS FC V ST MIRREN FC STARKS PARK 18TH SEPTEMBER 04 K/O 15:00

Another week, and another dreaded match for the long suffering Raith fans. Since taking control of the team, Claude Anelka has failed to live up to his promises and expectations, and many regard this as his final chance to turn this sinking ship around.

Like ourselves, St Mirren narrowly avoided relegation last season. The current situation for each club though, could not be more different. St Mirren sit proudly at the top of the Bells First Division, while Rovers lie bottom with only one point. Perhaps Saints most high profile and effective signing of the close season, has been former St Johnstone and Aberdeen signing, Finn Mixu Paatelainen. We will look into him in more detail later in the preview.

PREVIOUS ENCOUTERS

RAITH 1-1 SAINTS

RAITH 2-0 SAINTS

RAITH 1-2 SAINTS.

ONES TO WATCH

ST MIRREN:

MIXU PAATELAINEN- As I said earlier, Mixu is one of St Mirrens greatest assets. I believe that his aerial ability is second to none in this league, and he is sure to cause Raith problems this year. The big Finn has already notched 5 goals this season, and has great chance to add to that tally tommorow.

RAITH ROVERS:

HAMED SACKO- Hamed has been part of the select group of Raith players who have impressed this season. Having scored several goals already this year, including one against Falkirk last week, Hamed is our only real hope of some goals this year, so heres hoping he delivers tommorow!!!

FIFES FINEST ONLINE PREDICTION:

RAITH 1-3 ST MIRREN- I dont usually tip the Rovers to get beat, but no matter how hard I look, I just cant see where a win is going to come from. Nothing would please me better than to be proved wrong, but I just cant see it happening.