Stenhousemuir ran out comfortable winners in this match between the teams relegated from the Second Division at the end of last season.
Both sides have struggled so far in the Third Division, but this result and more importantly the second half performance by the Warriors could be the catalyst for a decent run of form.
Stenhousemuir opened the scoring in the 24th minute. Paul McGrillen was picked out by John Paul McBride, and he stroked the ball past the advancing Scott Morrison.
The Fifers had almost taken the lead themselves two minutes earlier when a Garry Kelly shot hit the post when he should have scored.
East Fife equalised after confusion between the Stenhousemuir defence and keeper, and Stevie Nicholas's outstretched leg steered the ball into the net.
Almost immediately after the resumption Martin Lauchlan put the home side ahead after a solo run and shot before East Fife drew level again with a Derek Colquhoun volley.
A Paul McGrillen thunderbolt put Stenhousemuir ahead again before a Ryan Davidson double put the result beyond doubt.
With stoppage time being played, Kristopher Brash was dismissed for a rash challenge on Lauchlan to seal a dismal day for the men from Methil.