Raith Rovers 4-3 Partick Thistle: Hosts go top of Scottish Championship after Kirkcaldy thriller
- Published
Watch all seven goals from Kirkcaldy epic
Raith Rovers moved two points clear at the top of the Scottish Championship after edging a seven-goal thriller with third-top visitors Partick Thistle.
A Daniel O'Reilly header and Dylan Easton strike had Rovers comfortably in the lead at half-time.
An O'Reilly own goal and Brian Graham penalty levelled the scores and Blair Alston slid in to put Thistle ahead.
But substitute Callum Smith equalised with a low drive and Sam Stanton slotted a close-range winner.
A fifth consecutive victory lifts Rovers above Dundee United, who host Ayr United on Saturday, and Ian Murray's side travel to Arbroath on Tuesday unbeaten in 11 games before heading to Tannadice next Saturday to face the pre-season title favourites.
Rovers went one better than the reverse fixture at Firhill in August, when they came from two down to draw.
The end of Thistle's six-game unbeaten run leaves Kris Doolan's side, who had headed to Kirkcaldy on the back of four straight wins, eight points behind Rovers.
Raith Rovers manager Ian Murray: "I do not think it is a coincidence how many late goals we have scored this season. It is not just the physical aspect, it is also the mental aspect.
"The players deserve all the credit coming their way. I would prefer it was the end of May, but I am delighted. We have worked incredibly hard, but it is a long way to go."
Partick Thistle manager Kris Doolan: "I think the positives are that we scored three goals in the second half. Raith have scored late goals numerous times this season, but to lose two is a sore one.
"The positives are that we managed to pull it back and take the lead. We probably had another shout for a penalty, but still there are lessons to be learned."