Dunfermline 1
Dundee Utd 0
League (SPL)

Match Report

United’s dismal run of results at East End Park continued. A first half strike from Tam McManus was enough to give the Pars all three points.

Despite the threat of a four game suspension, Craig Levein recalled his captain Barry Robson to the starting eleven. Also included was Morgaro Gomis who had been a major doubt due to injury. The hosts lined up with two former United players in their eleven, Jamie McCunnie and Jim McIntyre.

With the home side eager to narrow the gap to St Mirren they started the livlier and early on had headed efforts from McIntyre and Tam McManus.

With 22 minutes gone the Pars should have had the lead but McIntyre blasted over from six yards out with only Stillie to beat. United then almost broke the deadlock when Robson fired in a low free kick but his effort was inches wide. With 15 minutes of the half left Kalvenes won possession in his own half and ran the length of the pitch before exchanging passes with Jon Daly. The Norwegian fired in a shot that De Vries saved with his feet. The Pars went straight up the park and with Kalvenes out of position Shields crossed from the right and McManus volleyed home.

The second period was a less entertaining spectacle although the home side should have doubled their lead but unbelievably Stephen Glass missed an open
goal from 10 yards out. United created a few chances and towards the end Daly and McCracken both had chances to equalise but on both occasions they
headed over. The home side’s defence was solid all afternoon and much to their supporters’ delight they held out to secure the win.