Craigen’s winner has Pars gunning four Ton
BIG GAMES AT HOME AND IN EUROPE
GOAL hero James Craigen buried Caley to breathe fresh life into the Pars’ Championship play-off hopes.
The attacking midfielder’s early free-kick winner handed the Fifers their first victory in eight games.
Dunfermline are now only four points behind fourth-placed Morton with a game in hand ahead of Saturday’s visit of Jim Duffy’s side.
Gaffer Allan Johnston said: “It’s great to get a win. We know where we want to be and that’s the top four – that’s the target.”
Inverness’ teen defender Cameron Harper – a late call-up for crocked Riccardo Calder – was forced off just five minutes into his debut with a hamstring problem. And within seconds of Brad McKay coming on, Craigen netted from a free-kick after Iain Vigurs brought down Kallum Higginbotham.
Collin Seedorf’s cross from the right found Aaron Doran but his tame shot was saved by Pars keeper Lee Robinson just after the break.
Inverness goalie Mark Ridgers saved another effort from Craigen before twice misjudging crosses.
Carl Tremarco cleared off the line after Tom Beading’s delivery hit off Nicky Clark on 72nd minutes and Declan McManus headed wide with the goal gaping after the keeper failed to deal with the ex-Rangers striker’s cross.
Ridgers made amends with a superb save to deny Higginbotham before Highland No.2 Brice Rice was sent to the stand by ref Kevin Clancy.
Boss John Robertson said: “No complaints, the best team won.”
LEAGUE ONE