The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Smith takes heart ahead of ICT clash
Raith Rovers boss Barry Smith is looking for his side to continue their development in the Highlands, despite facing an Inverness Caley Thistle side he believes will be among the best in the Championship.
Rovers were criticised by their own support when they lost 2-0 to Cowdenbeath in their opening Betfred Cup game 10 days ago.
However, a rousing display in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Hearts brought praise despite Rovers losing the penalty shoot-out.
Smith said: “Saturday’s game was much better than the week before. The fans will have been pleased as the players had to dig deep, and that is always appreciated.
“We carried a threat going forward and the players all worked hard for each other. The level of effort put in was terrific, especially when you consider the injuries that we have.”
Smith added: “We limited Hearts to very few opportunities and everyone was much happier after the game, but we will need an even better level of performance when we face Inverness. John Robertson has them playing well and scoring goals.
“I believe that they will have a good season but we can get a result there.”
Caley boss Robertson took in Raith’s game with his former Tynecastle favourites, and Smith has also been doing his homework.
He said: “I had a report on Inverness carried out and went over it at the weekend.
“We will prepare accordingly and there may have to be a few tweaks made but, as always, I want us to concentrate on what we can do as opposed to what Inverness can do.”
Nat Wedderburn, Lewis Vaughan, Nathan Flannagan and Liam Buchanan are all expected to miss out again.
Caley may include new signings Tom Walsh and Angus Beith as they seek a third straight victory in the group after successes against Cove Rangers and Cowdenbeath.
However, Raith will be out to bury their hoodoo against the Highland capital side, having failed to beat Caley since goals from Jay Stein and Ivan Mballa sealed a 2-1 win in the old First Division in October 2000.