First Division: Smith looking for home recovery

SECOND-placed Dundee host Ayr United in the First Division game that was postponed just two weeks ago when the floodlights failed at just before kick-off at Dens Park and manager Barry Smith is also looking for his men to spark back into life.

With their title chase all but over, as Ross County sit 17 points clear, Smith is looking for his men to secure their first home win since early January and give their fans a lift after a 1-1 draw with visitors Raith Rovers at the weekend.

He said: “We need to start winning our home games again. We started really well against Raith at the weekend and scored a really good goal but, for some reason, it went flat after that.

“Our fans have back us magnificently and we owe it to them not to let things fade away. I am hoping that we can go out and reward them with good performances between now and the end of the season.”

Dundee have another good reason to lift their game, with Smith adding: “Ayr got a draw here back in August and they have improved since then so we will need a more than decent performance to win this one. They are coming here with plenty to play for but I am expecting us to get the three points.”

On-loan St Johnstone striker Carl Finnigan looks set to miss out with a knee injury, Nicky Riley’s back injury continues to keep him out and defender Rhys Weston is struggling to feature with a knock.

Ayr United were relegated two years ago and manager Brian Reid concentrating on survival. He said: “Some people are saying that 40 points will see us safe but I am not looking that far ahead. All I am focusing on is picking up three points from Dundee.”

Reid is missing the on-loan pair of midfielder Jamie McKernon and front man Sean Higgins, but he may freshen up his starting eleven up after Saturday’s goalless draw with Morton.”