Late McHugh leveller keeps Falkirk on course for second-place finish
BOB McHUGH contributed one of the most important goals of his career, earning Falkirk a late point at Raith.
The 2-2 draw keeps his team three points clear of Hibernian and their superior goal difference pretty much leaves their fate in their own hands.
A win over Morton on Sunday would now surely seal second place as their goal difference is seven better than Hibs, who face Dumbarton in their game in hand tomorrow.
Falkirk were twice behind at Stark’s Park – to goals from Joel Thomas and Ryan Hardie – but fought back, firstly through Craig Sibbald, and then McHugh.
“That was a vital point for us as it was looking a bit sticky at times,” admitted McHugh.
“We have had a few injury problems this week and the squad was down to the bare bones but you could see the spirit in the camp. We never know when to give up and we managed to grind out yet another crucial point.
“I’m making up for lost time after a few setbacks this season. I’m feeling fit and sharp and I’m pleased to be getting the rewards.
“Finishing second in the table isn’t the be-all and end-all, but it would make things easier in the play-offs if there were two less games for us.
“I don’t think anyone wants to come here to play Raith Rovers as it would be a really tough game. Leaving that aside, It would be a great achievement for us to finish the season as runners-up.”
Hibernian only have themselves to blame if they fail to finish second as they failed to spark in the 0-0 draw at Morton. “I can’t say that a draw wasn’t a fair result,” admitted their manager Alan Stubbs, who was not happy at the Cappielow playing surface.
On this evidence, there is little hope of Hibs making up the goal difference on Falkirk.
Dumbarton guaranteed their safety with a come-from-behind 2-1 win over St Mirren, Garry Fleming scoring a memorable winner early in the second half. Their manager Steve Aitken, who admitted to some sleepless nights, can now rest easy.
Calum Gallagher had opened the scoring for St Mirren but Dumbarton equalised through a Keith Watson own-goal before Fleming’s winner.
Queen of the South, who axed manager James Fowler last week, pushed Livingston into the relegation play-offs with a 3-1 win at Palmerston.
Sam Stanton gave Livingston a halftime lead but Derek Lyle scored twice – once from the penalty spot – and Gary Oliver was also on target before Lewis Kidd was sent off. “It has been a difficult week after losing James but the players responded really well,” said caretaker manager Gavin Skelton.