Raith Rovers striker Mark Stewart was relieved to finally end his goal drought in the 2-1 Championship win over Alloa on Saturday evening.
Stewart’s 28th minute opener was his first goal since December 13, and although Liam Buchanan equalised for the Wasps five minutes later, Raith got back to winning ways thanks to Lewis Vaughan’s goal early in the second half.
“It’s been a while so there was probably a bit of relief in my celebration,” Stewart said.
“I think I’ve been playing well but as a striker you get judged on goals, and it’s just not been falling for me in the last few months.
“I wouldn’t say it’s been a psychological thing, the ball’s just not been going in the net.
“I’ve just gambled and luckily the defender and goalkeeper have shown a bit of indecision, and I’ve knocked it in.
“Hopefully now I can kick on and get a few more before the end of the season.”
Stewart was recalled to the starting line-up in place of the suspended Christian Nade, and was pleased to renew his partnership with teenage striker Vaughan, who he rates highly.
He said: We seem to have struck up a good understanding and he’s a cracking wee player.”
Stewart was first to threaten in the 19th minute, meeting Grant Anderson’s back post cross with a powerful header that Craig McDowell pushed over.
However, the Raith forward got his long-awaited goal nine minutes later, pouncing on hesitation to knock the ball past the out-rushing Alloa keeper.
Buchanan had struck the bar just two minutes before Raith’s opener, but the striker had better luck on 33 minutes, turning sharply to fire low past David McGurn.
Alloa finished the half strongly, with McGurn making saves from Ryan McCord and Mark Docherty, but it was Rovers who were quickest out the blocks for the second half as they regained the lead just two minutes in.
Grant Anderson crossed for Vaughan, whose first- time volley gave McDowell no chance.
Raith had numerous chances to cement the win but McDowell was on top form to deny Vaughan, Anderson and Ryan Conroy.
Alloa substitute Michael Chopra went close with a deflected 25-yard effort, while there was a scare for Raith in injury-time as Kevin Cawley sent a dipping effort just over the bar.