Happy to be a team player

Andy Ryan looks back at Nicky Clark’s goal last week in the 95th minute and realises how crucial that turned out to be.

Andy Ryan is pleased that on Saturday that it is in our own hands.

“We have known for the last three or four games that we could get ourselves in a position where it would be in our own hands. That is the best scenario that we could have hoped for.

“We need a point but we will be going all out to take all three. Hopefully the fans turn up in good numbers because we have been on a run of good results lately and we have a chance to secure the play off place on Saturday.”

Andy explained that it has been a test of his patience this season as Nicky Clark and Declan McManus have formed a good striking partnership together.

“I always knew that before coming here that I would need to be patient. Better late than never that I got my chance and I have got a goal.”

Last season Andy was a member of the Airdrie team that faced Alloa in the Championship play offs and claims that they are tough both mentally and physically on the players.

“You will need to use your full squad if we get into the playoffs which hopefully we do, we will have to rotate and use the squad.

In 2014 Andy progressed through the Premiership play offs while playing for Hamilton and he knows that should he make it there with Dunfermline this season then it will be “two cup finals”.

“The first leg is never over no matter what the score is. They have the second game to come back but we need to concentrate on Saturday first to get the job done.”

Dundee United are the most likely opponents but despite not beating them in 13 matches, Andy is optimistic if there is a next time this season:-

“We went up there a couple of weeks ago and got a decent point but the play offs are completely different to the league. You have two ties and both teams will be going out there looking to win.”

Andy has scored in both Dunfermline’s last two games and felt that he benefited from greater game time.

“I was happy with that and to get the goal was good. Fraser Aird put in a great cross that I just got on the end of it. The manager rewarded me with a start at the weekend. He knows it is a team game and I am happy play my part.”

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