Former Scotland and Raith Rovers manager Craig Levein has recounted the bizarre story of attending a live exorcism while attempting to sign defender Marvin Andrews for the club in 2006. The incident took place at the Zion Praise Centre in Kirkcaldy, where Andrews' spiritual mentor was conducting the service.
Levein, who took charge of Raith on a non-contract basis for seven matches that year, was invited to the meeting by then-Chancellor of the Exchequer and fellow boyhood fan Gordon Brown. Both men expected a standard transfer discussion but instead witnessed a dramatic religious ceremony. "It was the most bizarre evening I have ever had," Levein said, describing people falling backwards and wailing as Pastor Joe Nwokoye placed hands on their heads.
The manager recalled arriving to find three Range Rovers with sirens in the church car park before being whisked inside by Brown. Marvin Andrews, a free agent after his release from Rangers, was present. The powerful centre-back had previously spent three successful years at Stark's Park and was considering a return. Andrews later revealed his decision was based on divine guidance rather than the political and managerial persuasion in the room.
Faith and football
Andrews' deep Christian faith was a defining feature throughout his playing career, which included a Scottish Premiership title with Rangers. After retiring in 2016, he became a full-time preacher and minister in Scotland. His spiritual work even extended to offering help for a reportedly haunted house in Jedburgh in 2017.
Levein's short tenure at Raith is now a curious footnote in the club's history as the current team pushes for promotion. Ian Murray's side sit third in the Scottish Championship with 20 points from 10 games, just two points behind leaders Stenhousemuir. Their recent form reads two wins, two draws and one loss from the last five matches, a run that includes a 2-0 victory over Queen's Park and a 1-1 draw with Stenhousemuir last time out. The team's overall record this season stands at six wins, two draws and two losses, having scored 15 goals and conceded just six for a goal difference of plus nine. That 2-0 win over Queen's Park on Saturday 10 October saw goals from S. Brown and a K. Turner penalty.
The squad now prepares for a home match against sixth-placed Inverness Caledonian Thistle this Saturday 24 October. The story of Levein's unusual recruitment drive remains one of the club's most memorable off-field tales.
The original report is at Under the Cosh podcast
