BY IAIN COLLIN – @CCP_sport
Kyle Benedictus insists it was a ‘no-brainer’ to pen a new deal with Raith Rovers – because he is enjoying his football as much as he ever has in his career.
The 24-year-old has been made stand-in skipper at Stark’s Park in the absence of the injured Jason Thomson and is revelling in the responsibility.
And the former Dundee defender, who has a seven-month-old son, Max, with partner Raegan, is thrilled to have secured his future with the Kirkcaldy club for another season
He said: “I was obviously delighted to sign a new deal.
“I’ve not enjoyed my football as much as I am now, playing every week.
“And the manager seems to like me. That gives you confidence and makes you feel wanted.
“The whole time I was at Dundee, I was always in and out of the team, but I have played 23 times already for Raith and it is only halfway through the season.
“That shows the manager has faith in me and hopefully I can repay him.
“I signed for a year in the summer and most boys in the Championship usually only get 12-month deals so this was a bit of security for my young family.
“It was a no-brainer for me.”
Three points
After the disappointment of last weekend’s late call-off against St Mirren and their previous 1-0 defeat to Alloa Athletic, Raith will return to action seeking revenge for the last time out against Dumbarton.
Rovers, who are currently two points clear in fourth spot, were 3-0 ahead with just 10 minutes to go in November before a stunning late comeback from the Sons earned them a 3-3 draw.
Benedictus added: “That had never happened to me before, but this is a new fixture now and we want a positive result, especially after the disappointing defeat against Alloa.
“The most important thing is three points.
“It doesn’t matter how we do it – just give everything we’ve got and secure a win.
“We definitely need it just now as teams like Morton and Queen of the South are close to us.
“Our next two games at home are massive so hopefully we can get maximum points and establish a wee gap.”
