David Buick
Raith Rovers have progressed to the Scottish Premiership play-off semi-finals following a 2-0 victory over their local rivals Dunfermline at Stark’s Park.
The first leg was a goalless draw at East End Park on Tuesday night with the Pars failing to make the most of their chances to take a lead into the second leg. Given Dunfermline’s poor away form this season and the previous meeting at Stark’s between the side being a 5-1 home win, Rovers were pleased the second leg started 0-0.
Joy for McGlynn and Raith Rovers. (photo by Alan Rennie/Action Plus via Getty Images)
The Pars again had the better chances in the game for the large part but failed to find a cutting edge in front of goal when it mattered most. Rovers found the opener as Lewis Vaughan took advantage of a loose ball in the Pars box following an effort from Reghan Tumilty to put Raith ahead.
Dunfermline threw men forward to find an equaliser but it was Raith who scored again as Gozie Ugwu netted a great goal on the break to consign his former club to another season in the Championship and set up Raith’s semi final against Dundee next week. Here are three things we learned.
Rovers remarkable journey continues
Considering the season they have had, it’s easy to forget that this is Raith Rovers’ first season back in the Championship following their promotion from League One last season. John McGlynn’s men have earned plaudits all season long for their performances and results and now find themselves potentially four games from the Premiership.
Pars pain
Disappointing defeat. (Photo by Ross Parker / SNS Group via Getty Images)
Over the two legs it would be fair to say that Dunfermline had the better chances. In truth, Dunfermline could have been out of sight following the first leg but no one could find that vital goal. The objective at the start of the year was for the Pars to reach the play-offs, although with the way the season has panned out, there’s sense of disappointment.
Vaughan the derby hero again!
It’s three goals this season for Vaughan this season, all three coming in Fife derby. Vaughan has had a tough few years as he has battled numerous serious injuries. His quality has never been in question, a fine player on his day and that’s something Dunfermline know all too well as the Rovers man is so often the standout when these two sides clash.
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