Manager post Alloa Athletic

06/05/23: link to audio of James McPake’s post match comments

The Dunfermline Athletic manager agreed the 2-0 win away from home was a satisfactory way to end what has been a momentous season. James McPake told the media:-

"That`s 24 unbeaten. It`s not the be-all and end-all, winning the league against Queen of the South was the important one, and the trophy day last week. When you`ve got these wee records in sight, then it gives you that wee bit of motivation to go and try and break them.

"To be fair, that comes from the players as well - they`ve been excellent. Another clean sheet, stuff like that, the fewest goals we`ve conceded in a season. We`re proud of all of that but proud of the team for the season they`ve had, they`ve been excellent and they can now enjoy their break."

Craig Wighton achieved the 20 goal milestone as well?

"He should have had it in the first half but he kept going. He probably puts the easiest chance away. Credit to him, he missed a large part of the season and he`s shown his worth to us with getting his 20th goal of the season. It`s good for him. Again, he needs the break, come back and he`ll go again.

"I still do believe there is more to come from Craig. I know he believes it.  He`ll now enjoy his break and have a proper pre-season hopefully, injury-wise, and go again next year. I’m delighted for him on a personal note to get that because I know it meant a lot to him."

What a goal from Paul McGowan, his first for the club?

"When we were talking about the team, just today - you can`t bet, obviously - I bet Monty and Harty, because Dave was banned, but I bet them a pizza or a meal that he would score today.

"He was excellent, that`s been his best performance. He`s getting to a point where he doesn`t want the season to end. He`s now at a level of fitness that he`s happy with. He was excellent throughout the game. 

"Ewan Otoo was outstanding today in the left centre-back, but half of the time he plays like a left-winger - great. As a team it`s another good afternoon to end what`s been a good season."

It is probably too early to ask this question, but is Paul McGowan one that you might have an interest in? James was smiling when he replied:-

“Definitely too early, it is not even half an hour after full time, so yeah!”

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