BY IAIN COLLIN – @CCP_sport
Allan Johnston admits Dunfermline have the ‘finishing line’ firmly in their sights as they look to clinch the League One title.
The Pars, who face Fife rivals Cowdenbeath tomorrow, are currently 10 points clear at the top of the table after Peterhead in second place could only draw with Stranraer in midweek.
The Blue Toon have now played a game more than Dunfermline, meaning the Pars need a maximum of just three more wins from their remaining seven matches to secure the championship.
Johnston has steadfastly balked at discussing the prospect of his team lifting the trophy this season, but knows he can no longer ignore the fact the silverware is in touching distance.
He said: “We can start to see the finishing line, so it’s a great position to be in.
“But we need to make sure we get there.
“This Saturday is a great game to go into. The boys have built up a bit of momentum in the last few weeks, especially with the number of games they’ve won.
“So, we’re going into it full of confidence.
“But we’re definitely not taking Cowdenbeath for granted. They’re better than what their results have shown recently, so it’s going to be a tough game.”
Defence
During the 0-0 draw with Cowdenbeath on their last trip to Central Park in October, Dunfermline have since calculated the ball was out of play for almost half of the 90 minutes.
It is a scenario the East End Park outfit are desperate to avoid tomorrow, knowing their attacking flair can lead them another step closer to the title.
However, Johnston has heaped praise on his defence following the crucial 2-0 win over Ayr United last weekend.
He added: “The plaudits go to the strikers all the time for scoring the goals but we’ve hardly conceded goals this season.
“We’ve been really good defensively, especially when we’re opening up and attacking all the time.
“It’s been really pleasing and we’ve just got to make sure we continue that kind of attacking and defending for the remainder of the season.”
