YAN FOR THE ROAD

Dhanda serves up parting gift to put Staggies in driving seat

- FRASER WILSON

YAN DHANDA promised to leave Ross County in the Premiership before heading to Hearts in the next few weeks.

And last night the Staggies star did more than anyone to ensure the relegation escape artists took a giant step towards back-to-back play-off survival.

A year after netting the penalty that sparked their miraculous final comeback against Partick, Dhanda held his nerve from 12 yards to despatch the opener at sodden Stark's Park.

And his inch-perfect delivery from a corner then teed up Jack Baldwin to double the lead on 72 minutes.

Raith hauled themselves back into the tie with Sam Stanton's late goal.

But Rovers were left cursing VAR after pulling out the stops to get the technology installed for their shot at a return to the top flight.

In it's first ever action in Kirkcaldy the video assistants penalised Euan Murray for handball and handed Dhanda his opener from 12 yards.

Over the course few could complain at the result as the Premiership side showed their class. But Stanton's late goal at least gives Raith hope that their Premiership dream could yet be saved.

Indeed to pinch a catchphrase former hero Marvellous Marvin Andrews - who got a rapturous reception during a half-time appearance - Ian Murray's men can still believe.

It's been 27 years since Raith last graced the top flight.

But their fans packed Stark's Park and were bursting with belief Murray's men were set to end that long wait.