EAST FIFE go into tonight’s first leg of the Second Division play-off final against Queen’s Park at Firhill with a question mark over the fitness of three players.

Jason Dair and Ryan Blackadder have reported knee knocks after Saturday’s game against Stranraer, while Graeme Gibson picked up a groin strain as East Fife progressed to the final.

“They are giving me a bit of a headache, but hopefully two of the three will be available,” said manager Dave Baikie.

He is pleased the first leg is away from home and is calling on his players to ensure they give themselves a good opportunity to win promotion in front of their own fans on Saturday.

“A good result tonight makes it like a cup final at home for us on Saturday,” he said.

“Of course it would be great to win 5-0 tonight, but that’s very unlikely to happen given the ability that Queen’s Park possess.

“They are a young side, very fit and hard-working. They are confident and pass the ball about well.

“We know it will be a difficult task, but we have the edge on them this season, having won both our games at home and registering a defeat and a draw there, so we know what we can do.”

Whatever the outcome of the play-off, Baikie has been quietly strengthening his side for next season.

Most of the existing squad have already signed up, while four new players have been added so far.

Former Hibs and Dundee defender Steven Tweed (34) is among them.

Vastly experienced, he has played for clubs in Germany, Greece and Japan, and joined the Fifers after terminating his contract with Livingston.

He will link up with Kevin Fotheringham from Raith Rovers, Cowdenbeath’s Graham Guy and Paul Stewart of East Stirling.

I hope Blackadder doesn't start as we're more attacking and free-flowing without him (just like Stranraer at Bayview). Rather he came on later in the game.