Kane gives it both barrels

Rangers Ritchie-Hosler shoots away the threat from Queen of the South

Dunfermline’s on-loan Ranger Kane Ritchie-Hosler’s last footballing success was lifting the Glasgow Cup when Rangers B defeated Queens Park 3-1 at Broadwood in March last year. Playing in front of a near 6000 crowd on Saturday, winning the League One title with Dunfermline proved to be a much more emotional occasion for the former Manchester City youth.

Kane terrorised the Queen of the South with his strong attacking play and he popped up midway into the first half to score the opening goal for the Pars. He recalled the opportunity:-

“I was played a short corner and I tried just to whip it but I did not get the best connection on it. I think that might have put him off a little bit. It got through, managed to go in and it’s my goal as well.”

Seeing the ball squeeze past Queen of the South’s on loan goalkeeper Kevin Dabrowski, Kane described as “one of the best feelings, especially being the first goal as well.“

It was just the second Dunfermline goal for the 20 year old but enough to have the home fans singing his name repeatedly, could he be back here next season, he was asked. Kane could only reply “we will have to see what happens. I love it here so I’ll just see.”

His nippy play sparked off numerous attacking moves and in his seven months in West Fife he has developed into somewhat of a fans favourite. His 73rd minute substitution created a chance to engage with fans, an occasion he appeared to thrive on:-

“It was crazy with the fans. The gaffer did it on purpose by putting me round there, made me switch to the other side. He obviously told me to go off the other side so it was amazing.”

Even after the praises of the North West and McCathie stands, as Kane reached the centre stand making his way to the dugout he had everyone there on their feet to complete the ovation.

The experience at Dunfermline has been a good one for Kane. He has made 19 league and cup appearances so far for the Pars and he will lift a league winners medal. He added:-

“It is a huge moment for me, I’m buzzing and can hardly speak now. My voice has just about gone. Competing at the top and playing week in week out. It took me a while to get going, I managed to get myself in the team and I have just enjoyed the whole experience honestly. I can’t thank the staff enough, the players, everyone, it has been great.”

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