SFL previews: Pars wary of Falkirk, while Partick host in-form Raith

TABLE-TOPPING Dunfermline manager Jim McIntyre has told his players to be prepared for facing a Falkirk side that will be going all-out for revenge on Boxing Day.

McIntyre said: "It seems like a million years ago we played Falkirk at their place in the sun and won 1-0. They played very well that day and I am expecting another big performance from them, plus they have the added incentive of trying to get us back for that win."

The Pars will be missing the goal threat of winger Willie Gibson through suspension as they look to open up an 11-point gap on the Bairns.

Falkirk have been idle since 13 November and hope to welcome winger Jack Compton back after more than two months out injured.

Partick Thistle v Raith Rovers

IAN McCall's side, who have drawn their last three matches, have club captain Alan Archibald available after suspension, however on-loan Hearts defender Conrad Balatoni is a doubt with a hamstring problem and winger Chris Erskine will need to prove his fitness after a calf strain.

Rovers are unbeaten in five league games against the Glasgow side, but are without injured Stephen Simmons, along with Dougie Hill. On-loan Hearts striker Jamie Mole is a doubt, with Gary Wales in line to take his place.

SECOND DIVISION

Alloa Athletic v Livingston

(pitch inspection on match-day)

ALLOA manager Allan Maitland has told his players that there must be no repeat of what happened at the end of last week's game with Airdrie United when they lost two goals to go down 3-2.

Maitland said: "We all had a good discussion before a very productive training session earlier in the week to try and get it out of our system."

Gary Bollan has added left-back Jason Talbot and Keaghan Jacobs to his squad.

THIRD DIVISION

East Stirlingshire v Albion Rovers

(pitch inspection today)

EAST Stirling's head coach Jim McInally has told his players that they must shrug off their long lay-off.

McInally said: "I am expecting us to be a bit ring rusty but hopefully we can get up to speed quickly. The players are desperate to get back to playing again."

The Shire have been boosted by the availability of midfielder Craig Donaldson after an ankle knock, while the only absentee for in-form Albion Rovers is their centre-back and assistant manager Todd Lumsden, who is struggling to shake off a calf problem.

(All games Boxing Day, 3pm)