George Oakley marked his first start of the Scottish Championship season with a decisive contribution as Raith Rovers delivered a commanding 4-0 victory over Arbroath on Sunday. The 30-year-old striker, who had been sidelined by injury since joining Stark’s Park, scored twice within the opening 15 minutes to set the tone for the match.

Oakley’s physical presence proved pivotal beyond his goal-scoring, as his play forced a critical turning point in the 26th minute. Arbroath defender Charlie Dewar received a red card after fouling Oakley, who was through on goal, reducing the visitors to ten men. Raith manager Dougie Imrie praised Oakley’s impact, describing him as “unstoppable” when fit and emphasizing his hold-up play that contributed to the opposition’s disadvantage.

“We played well enough to make it difficult for them with eleven players, but it became especially hard after the red card,” Imrie said. The Rovers extended their lead with a third goal from Jai Rowe, who struck an impressive shot into the top corner. Substitute Dylan Easton then converted a penalty after John Robertson was fouled, completing the 4-0 scoreline and moving Raith Rovers above Stenhousemuir in the league standings on goal difference.

Elsewhere in the Championship, Inverness Caledonian Thistle secured their first league win of the season with a 3-1 victory over Ayr United. Goals from Luis Longstaff, Ryan Duncan, and Adam Mackinnon powered Caley Thistle’s triumph. Manager Scott Kellacher noted a tactical adjustment, having opted to deploy no traditional striker, a strategy he acknowledged was a gamble that ultimately paid off.

“We took a bit of a gamble going with no striker up there – sometimes it goes for you, sometimes it doesn’t,” Kellacher said. “But Ryan was absolutely fantastic up there.”

The round of fixtures reinforced Raith Rovers’ position at the top of the Championship, while Inverness Caledonian Thistle sought to build momentum following a challenging start to their campaign.