Raith Rovers 4-4 Ayr United: Lewis Vaughan hat-trick rescues leaders in thriller with 10-man visitors

Lewis Vaughan was left dejected at the final whistle despite his hat-trick

Raith Rovers stay five points clear at the top of the Scottish Championship but needed a Lewis Vaughan hat-trick to rescue a point against 10-man Ayr Utd.

Veteran winger Aiden McGeady slotted Ayr ahead, but midfielder Sam Stanton slipped in a reply a minute later.

Sean McGinty was sent off shortly before half-time and Vaughan headed in.

But Ben Dempsey and Logan Chalmers put Ayr ahead, Vaughan levelled with a penalty, Ahkeem Rose thought he won it for Ayr, and Vaughan headed in late on.

• Reaction & as it happened

The striker's stoppage-time equaliser rescued Rovers' unbeaten home record this season - and means Ian Murray's side remain unbeaten in 14 games overall.

However, they missed a chance to extend their lead to eight points over Dundee United as the Tannadice side, who have a game in hand, were being held to a goalless draw by bottom side Queen's Park.

Ayr move above Greenock Morton into fifth after ending Rovers' run of seven consecutive victories.