Smith aims to maintain momentum

Raith have built up considerable momentum in recent weeks, and Stark’s Park boss Barry Smith is determined they will not lose it in this afternoon’s Irn-Bru Challenge Cup tie against Ross County U20s.

Having won their last four games, scoring 14 goals and conceding only one, Rovers start as red-hot favourites.

However, Smith, who was a youth coach at Ross County four years ago, is taking nothing for granted against the side which put Forfar out of the competition.

He is determined his players will continue to build up a head of steam with next week’s League 1 top-of-thetable clash against Ayr United looming.

Smith said: “I was up watching their game against Forfar two weeks ago.

“They did really well. They are not a typical 20s side and are quite physical.

“I obviously worked at Ross County for a time and they have a lot of promising youngsters.

“But we just have to concentrate on ourselves, keep doing what we have been doing ,and work hard,” he said.

“We had to make enforced changes for the last tie against Brora Rangers but we are determined to keep the momentum we have built up going.

“We want to go into the Ayr league game in a week’s time with another win to our name.”

Euan Murray missed last week’s match with a groin injury but has returned to full fitness.

Meanwhile, Rovers moved instantly to replace Hearts signing Ross Callachan after snapping up former Celtic midfielder John Herron for the rest of the season.

The 23-year-old has been training with the Kirkcaldy outfit in recent weeks and has done enough to convince Smith he is the man to step into the boots of departed skipper Callachan.

Herron spent last season on loan from Blackpool at Rovers’ rivals Dunfermline, making 26 appearances, and could make his Raith debut this afternoon.

Picture: SNS. New signing John Herron could make his debut today.