Hat-trick from Dr Goals the perfect tonic as Livi go top

DR GOALS came to the rescue of Livingston last night, scoring a hat-trick on his debut and sending them back to the top of the Second Division.

Kenny Deuchar had only signed hours before the trip to East Fife, and the Lions were 1-0 behind 12 minutes into the second period following a goal from Stevie Crawford when Deuchar struck.

He had a hand in the next goal, too, hauling down Craig Johnstone in the box with former Jambo Robert Sloan converting the penalty.

However, Deuchar, who signed from First Division outfit Falkirk, picked himself up to equalise in true goal poacher's style, prodding home from a matter of yards. Defender Michael O'Byrne was then sent off for the Lions following a two-footed lunge on Bobby Linn before substitute Iain Russell put Livi ahead.

Deuchar then wrapped up the win and became the first Livingston or Meadowbank Thistle player to score three on his debut when he made it 4-2.

Livi manager Gary Bollan said: "I tried to sign Kenny at the start of the season so I am delighted to finally get him on board. His goalscoring record speaks for itself.

"He'll add another dimension to our attacking options."

Livi are now two points clear of Ayr on 31 points but have played a game more.