Raith Rovers 0 - 1 Ayr United: Own goal lifts Ayr

A BRIAN Graham own goal secured a precious 1-0 win for Ayr United, as Raith Rovers’ recent poor form drags on, writes Alan Temple at Stark’s Park.

Ayr were ahead within ten minutes as the unfortunate Graham bundled a fierce Stephen McGowan free-kick into his own net, though David McGurn kept the Fifers in the game with a string of fine saves.

Rovers were more lively in the second period, but devoid of confidence after a run of one win in ten, struggling to cut open the resolute Honest Men. Even given the summer departure of key figures, the contrast in Raith between now and this point last campaign is startling.

John McGlynn’s men looked shell-shocked for a period after United went one up. McGurn had to turn in a scintillating display to parry two efforts from Gareth Wardlaw in quick succession and the excellent Wardlaw and McGowan had further chances to extend Ayr’s lead.

Raith were better after the break, with an enterprising run and shot over from John Baird proving an improvement, while Kevin Cuthbert had to save a Graham header.

But Brian Reid’s side turned in a splendid defensive display, and could have settled the game, with Willie Dyer clearing an Eddie Malone effort off the line.