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CHRIS Johnston flourished under namesake Allan at Kilmarnock – but hopes getting one over his old boss can now kick-start his Raith Rovers career.
The 22-year-old was handed his breakthrough at Rugby Park by Kenny Shiels but shot to prominence during Johnston’s spell in charge in season 2013-14.
The skilful attacker was branded ‘a wee bit special’ by Johnston during their time together in Ayrshire, but they find themselves on opposite sides of the Fife football divide on Saturday afternoon as Raith travel to face struggling Dunfermline.
Rovers’ Johnston has suffered an injury-hit opening to life at Stark’s Park after his summer switch but made his first start since July 30 in last weekend’s win over Queen of the South.
And he is desperate to taste derby success after missing August’s 2-0 win over the Pars.
With the Kirkcaldy men riding high in third in the table, he said: “I played under Allan Johnston at Killie. Kenny Shiels gave me my debut but Allan gave me a good run in the team.
“I was grateful to him for that chance but I will now be looking to get one over on him.
“I know he will be getting his players up for the game.
“They are not doing too well in the league but that doesn’t really count for much on the day.
“In a derby, both teams will be up for it so it will hinge on who wants it the most. Everybody knows it is a big game.
“I missed the first one this season because I was injured but I was sitting in the stand and got to see how much it meant to the fans.
“So I am really looking forward to the game and hopefully I can help us get the win.”
