Kirkcaldy come out on top in first ever derby with Thornton Hibs at Memorial Park
and live on Freeview channel 276
Kirkcaldy were looking to extend a winning streak of ten matches and also to avenge Thornton's 2-1 win earlier in the season at the Alex Penman Park.
In what was a typical local derby, with no holds barred, the referee flashed a number of yellow cards and it was no surprise to see the red card produced in the second half as the home side finished the match with ten men.
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Hide AdIt was Craig Gilbert's side who held the upper hand in the opening stages with Max Coleman coming close to finding the net with a shot from distance that whizzed past the upright.
Gradually the visitors came more into things and Tyler McKenzie almost broke the deadlock with a powerful drive that flew over its intended target.
Kieran Johnston had better luck in the 23rd minute, scoring with a 20 yard drive and this proved to be the only goal of the opening forty-five.
In the second half Thornton's best chance fell to John Soutar in the 57th minute but, under pressure from McKenzie, his header from Jamie McNeish's cross flashed just over.
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Hide AdThe Hibs' case wasn't helped in the 63rd minute when Coleman was ordered-off for a second yellow card offence and Craig Ness' side took advantage of this to double their lead in stoppage time thanks to a low drive from Jay Bridgeton. leaving them needing just one point to secure a top seven finish.
On a grey day for the Hibs, there was one bright spot as Daniel McNab's second-half introduction meant that this was his appearance since November 2020 following a serious eye operation.
Thornton Hibs: Linton, Masson, A.Drummond, S.Drummond, Shanks, Adam, McMillan, Coleman, Kinninmonth, Thomson, Soutar. Subs: Robertson, McNeish, Daniel Meldrum, McNab, Lamont, Doran, Darren Meldrum (T).
Kirkcaldy & Dysart: Wilson, McGowan, McEwan, McKenzie, Smith, Johnston, Bridgeford, Nouri, Ireland, Donald, Wilkie. Subs: Kirton, Jeffries, Price, Warrander, O'Conner, Gear.
Referee: Mr K.Brown