Dunfermline vs Hamilton FC preview - Boss set for Sons bow

Posted Saturday, April 06, 2013 by PA

Dumbarton player/manager Ian Murray could make his playing debut for the Sons against visitors Livingston.

Murray may be forced to select himself as Scott Smith is a major doubt with a swollen ankle and Paul McGinn has been ruled out with a hamstring problem.

Back-up goalkeeper Jamie Ewings is struggling with illness with Nicky Phinn (calf), Garry Fleming (knee) and Robbie Winters (back) also missing for Murray's men.

The Bet Butler Stadium boss said: "We have Livingston and then Raith Rovers in our next two home games and if we could get six points from them we would be within touching distance of safety.

"We are a bit short of bodies and looked a bit weary in the last 15 minutes when we lost at Hamilton in midweek but we will be ready to face Livingston."

Livingston striker Iain Russell will miss out against his former club after being dismissed against Falkirk when the Lions lost 2-1 in midweek.

Marc McNulty has been ruled out with a hamstring injury and Jesus Garcia Tena, Stefan Scougall and Anthony Andreu all face fitness tests however Craig Barr returns after illness and Paul Watson is available after a groin problem.

Long term injury victims Keaghan Jacobs (knee) and Ross Docherty (groin) remain out.

Manager Richie Burke said: "I cannot pick my side yet as we have some important players facing a race for fitness.

"We are disappointed at losing to Falkirk and they will be disappointed at losing to Hamilton so this game will be won by the side who bounces back the highest."