Raith Rovers

Rovers benefited from League One being called early as they topped the table only 1 point above Falkirk. They were dominant at home but for champions they conceded a hefty 33 goals in 28 matches. While promotion is always welcomed, they must feel it has arrived at the wrong time with the ongoing COVID-19 crisis and finances stretched to the limit. Raith needed the money and transferred hot prospect and striker Kieron Bowie to Fulham. Veteran striker John Baird headed to Australia, while another forward, Joao Vitoria, opted for Stranraer. Michael Miller has taken a move to Championship rivals Ayr United. Raith have completed a shrewd piece of business by signing highly competent goalkeeper Jamie MacDonald. Reghan Tumilty has proved himself at Championship level with Morton and is another sound signing. The rest of their signings are free transfers from the English lower leagues and yet to prove themselves. Some may run riot in the Championship, but others may struggle to make an impact. Midfielder Ethan Ross has arrived on loan from Aberdeen and has some experience after another loan spell at Dunfermline last season. Raith were hardly convincing champions last season and their squad continues to look limited. They are yet another team hanging onto full-time status just as finances are being stretched to the limit by the COVID-19 crisis. They do possess some experienced campaigners such as Kyle Benedictus and Iain Davidson, but they will not be enough to avoid a potentially difficult season. Unfortunately, Lewis Vaughan remains plagued by injury. If fit he’d be one of the best forwards in the Championship, but his future hangs in the balance again.