Dumbarton 1 - 2 Raith Rovers: Graham seals Raith safety

A COMBINATION of this win and Dunfermline’s 15-point penalty means Raith Rovers will definitely be playing First Division football again next season.

Scorers: Dumbarton: Gilhaney (70); Raith Rovers: Spence (14), Graham (75)

Goals by Greig Spence and top scorer Brian Graham were enough to see off Dumbarton, whose survival prospects have also been enhanced by the plight of the Pars.

Dumbarton dominated the opening exchanges only to find themselves behind as Rovers drew first blood.

The home side had already threatened through Bryan Prunty’s snapshot which flew wide when they were caught cold at the other end. Joe Hamill’s ball into the box sparked panic in the home ranks and Grant Anderson sent a header over the stranded Stephen Grindlay. The ball was destined for the net but Spence, showing a poacher’s instinct, nipped in to apply the finishing touch.

Dumbarton were rewarded for some vigorous effort when Agnew’s cross was only half-cleared to Gilhaney whose volley soared into the net in the 70th minute. But Rovers took just five minutes to restore their lead, Graham heading Grant Anderson’s cross beyond Grindlay.

There was no way back for Dumbarton, who strangely finished the day a place higher than they had started it.

Dumbarton: Grindlay, Smith, Creaney (Ronald 81), Graham, Lithgow, Turner, Gilhaney, Agnew, Lister, Prunty, Fleming (McDougall 71). Subs not used: Lamont, Asghar, Ewings.

Raith Rovers: McGurn, Thomson, Ellis, Murray (Cardle 54), Mensing, S Anderson, G Anderson (Callachan 88), Walker, Graham, Spence, Hamill (Malone 71). Subs not used: Hill, Laidlaw.

Referee: D Somers. Attendance: 553.