RAITH ROVERS 0 QUEEN OF THE SOUTH 1

Connelly (12)

A first-half strike from Lee Connelly, allied to an exceptional goalkeeping performance from on-loan Middlesbrough keeper Solomon Brynn, proved to be the decisive factors as Queen of the South outgunned a battling Raith Rovers side at Starks Park.

Queens boss Allan Johnston was fulsome in his praise for Brynn’s display.

“We defended well as a team today” said Johnston. “And if you defend well, especially with a keeper like big Sol behind the back four, then you’ve always got a chance of winning. He’s a real talent and we’re lucky to have someone of his quality. Clean sheets are important and that’s two in a row we’ve achieved now.

“We knew Raith Rovers were a good passing side and we managed to frustrate them for large periods of the game.”

Following an uninspiring start to the season which had seen them win only one of their opening four league fixtures, Queens began the game intent on improving that record and their

early momentum was rewarded when they took the lead in the 12th minute, Lee Connelly latching on to a pass from Ruben Soares Junior before sending a low shot beyond Jamie Macdonald.

With the highly experienced Willie Gibson pulling the strings in midfield for the Doonhamers, the Raith defence found themselves under siege for a spell and they almost fell further behind when Roberto Nditi headed against Macdonald’s crossbar.

The home side responded with some sparkling wing play from the lively Dario Zanatta and Queens had Brynn to thank for ensuring they reached the interval in front, thekeeper producing outstanding saves from both Ethan Varian and Ross Matthews.

Raith were the dominant side for almost the entire second half but a stoic defensive performance by the visitors, notably from the highly impressive Brynn who denied both Reghan Tumilty and Dylan Tait, ensured that they left Kirkcaldy with all three points.

“We put a lot into the game and we are disappointed to come out of it with nothing,” said Raith Rovers boss John Mcglynn.