Dunfermline finished in 4th place in the Championship and fell at the first hurdle in the play-offs to Dundee United. Apart from poor spells either side of the festive season, the Pars must be bitterly disappointed they failed to sustain a title challenge or progress in the play-offs.
The Pars were one of several well-matched teams tipped to be in the title chase. They began with serious intent including a 3-0 win over eventual champions, St Mirren. However, heading into the winter it all fell apart as they went seven games without a win. Even at the midpoint of the season there seemed little chance of catching St Mirren.
Dunfermline finished the season in great form with a 10-game undefeated run. However, Dundee United proved too durable in the play-offs as Dunfermline's attack suddenly lost its edge. The Pars can claim they had some bad luck, but the bottom line was they failed to win when it mattered most.
Nicky Clark was Dunfermline's main source of goals and, when he lost form, Dunfermline faltered. The Pars were very steady at home, but the campaign was lost on the road with only five away wins all season. Over the season the Pars had the best defence with only 35 goals conceded. They also had the second best offence next to St Mirren.
The season proved Dunfermline were difficult to beat. However, they have to move on next season and start turning close matches into wins. They showed title-winning potential in 2017-18 and have the foundations to be tipped as one of the favourites for next season.
