First Division: Gorgie boys inspire Raith to victory

RAITH Rovers captain Grant Murray believes the remarkable start made by the club’s on-loan Hearts youngsters proves they have what it takes to make an impact on the Tynecastle first-team in the New Year.

The Stark’s Park side enjoyed an immediate return on last week’s arrival of Jason Holt, David Smith and Jamie Walker from the Hearts under-19 side, with Holt and Smith netting debut goals in Rovers’ 3-2 victory over Hamilton Accies on Saturday.

With Denis Prychynenko, in his third appearance since agreeing a short-term switch to Kirkcaldy, grabbing Raith’s other goal, manager John McGlynn hailed the impact made by his maroon quartet, with Danny Thomson also an unused substitute.

Murray, who himself made his debut for Hearts at the age of 19, said: “For us, it’s been a breath of fresh air these guys coming in. They’ve got something to prove and they’ve been stuck out on loan for a reason. Hearts want them to gain experience and they certainly gained experience on Saturday. They were all involved in all the goals and chances we created.”

Ross County manager Derek Adams’ meticulous research for his side’s trip to Livingston highlighted that the Dingwall club had never beaten the Lions in a league game and also that Gary Bollan’s men had not lost a home game since their Third Division days.

The County boss used both pieces of information to point out, that despite seven league wins in a row his side faced a really tough game. However Adams’ men blew both statistics away with a 3-0 success that saw them move 9 points clear in the race for a SPL place.

The game turned 11 minutes into the second half when Livi’s Rory Boulding was red carded for a foul on Paul Lawson.Michael Gardyne made the numerical advantage count, converting a Marc Fitzpatrick cross on 65 minutes before former Lion Colin McMenamin scored twice in four minutes to seal the win. A delighted Adams said: “It has been a great result for us as we have finally beaten Livingston.”

Meanwhile Dundee picked up their best result of the season defeating Falkirk 4-2 at Dens Park to move to within two points of the Bairns. Nicky Riley was the star of the show, setting up all four goals. Gavin Rae headed home after eight minutes and two minutes later Jake Hyde added a second before Falkirk pulled a goal back when Rhys Weston deflected in an own goal.

Riley continued to shine and midway through the second half he set up Hyde to volley home before Jay Fulton netted a 25 yarder for Falkirk. Steven Milne finally sealed the win in the 85th minute following yet more good play from Riley.