Falkirk 2
Dundee Utd 1
League (Premier Division)

Match Report

Our first visit to Brockville on Premier business will certainly not kindle fond memories. On top of a European tie in midweek we were deprived of the services of Maurice Malpas, Eamonn Bannon and Kevin Gallacher, enforcing five changes in personnel. Falkirk who played from the outset at a frantic pace took an early lead when a cross landed at McGivern's feet in space and the former youth international wheeled to sweep the ball past Billy Thomson. From here on until the interval the majority of the action was confined to Falkirk's half but apart from a succession of corners only Iain Ferguson and Gary McGinnls managed to get shots in on goal, but both were marginally off target.

The second half started in sensational style. Tommy Coyne was ordered off for an off the ball clash with Manley who had to be substituted. Play flowed from end to end and the game erupted in the 73rd minute. Hetherston from a twice taken free-kick curled the ball past Billy Thomson from the edge of the box. Immediately from the re-start, Paul Sturrock was upended by Martin in the area. Iain Ferguson's spot-kick was saved, Jim Mdnally's follow-up was also blocked but Ian Redford finally slotted the ball home. More sensation followed, Falkirk being awarded a penalty a minute later when McGuire was adjudged to have been tripped by Billy Thomson. However, Billy diving to his right saved Hetherington's penalty kick. Paul Sturrock shot wide towards the end in what was our last chance to salvage something from this game which was played like a cup-tie