KANE RITCHIE-HOSLER has said he couldn't describe his feelings when he stuck the ball into Dundee United's net on Friday night.

But the 21-year-old admitted that his exploits in front of the television cameras held great significance - and hoped that his family watching on enjoyed it.

Popular winger Ritchie-Hosler has endured an injury-hit season, with three separate operations for ankle and knee injuries, and a dislocated shoulder, restricting him to just eight appearances so far.

After setting up Matty Todd, who himself has seen his game time limited through injury, for Dunfermline's opener, he scored their second against the Championship league leaders.

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That was his first goal since April, when he netted in a 2-1 win over Clyde on the day Athletic were presented with the League One trophy, and went on to add a second, and his team's third, in the second half.

"It was amazing, I can’t describe it to be honest. I was just happy that it went in," a delighted Ritchie-Hosler replied when asked about his feelings when he scored his first of the game.

"Obviously, I would have preferred not to have to go through all that (injuries) and played a lot more of the season. I think, in a big game like this and on TV, it is huge. My parents were watching and I hope they liked it as well."

The former Manchester City academy star, who joined the Pars permanently from Rangers in the summer after a successful loan spell last season, also spoke of his love for the fans, who afforded him a standing ovation when he was substituted late on.

READ MORE: 'It's massive for me': Pars star Kane's 'buzzing' after netting United double

They also provided him with plenty of messages during his recovery from his injuries, the last of which he described as "the toughest mentally".

"It was a very different one and obviously I was getting back playing, back into the team, so to go out like that was difficult," he continued.

Dunfermline Press: Kane Ritchie-Hosler was thrilled to net twice against Dundee United.Kane Ritchie-Hosler was thrilled to net twice against Dundee United. (Image: Craig Brown.)

"But my family, the club and everyone involved were really helpful and supportive throughout the whole time. They have helped me all the way.

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"They (the supporters) are really supportive. I have had a lot of it while I’ve been here, especially last season. It was great I really appreciate the fans and it is massive for me and my confidence. I love it."

In a tightly congested league, Dunfermline head for Greenock Morton, who are one place and two points above the Pars in fifth, having played a game fewer, four points outside the final Premiership promotion play-off slot - but the same number of points clear of second bottom Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

Ritchie-Hosler, though, is aiming for the top end of the table, adding: "We have to take it game by game.

"Of course it is a cliche, but if you look at the squad that we have got, we have to build on this. Playing the league leaders and getting a result like that, you can see what quality that we do have when everyone is back as well. We will see what happens.

"Like I say, with the team that we have got, I think we can beat anyone in this league. It is a tough league, but of course we fancy ourselves."