Falkirk 1
Dundee Utd 0
League (SPL)

Match Report

A Jack Ross strike and an inspired performance by Falkirk goalkeeper Mark Howard were enough to give Falkirk their first home victory of the season over a struggling United side.

Craig Brewster made three changes to the starting line-up, two of which were forced. With Stillie and Miller injured, there were chances for Craig Samson, the returning Grant Brebner and Alan Archibald. The other man missing out was the unfortunate Lee Mair. Falkirk had an unchanged side following their 1-1 draw with Dunfermline.

The home side went in at half time with a narrow lead thanks to a superb Jack Ross strike after 23 minutes which gave Samson no chance. That was certainly not a true reflection of the opening 45 minutes as it was the visitors who created the best of the chances in an entertaining first half. Samuel was twice denied with low shots by keeper Howard on the fourth and 27th minute marks. The best chance though came after 11 minutes when Samuel set up Brebner who forced Howard to make a fine fingertip save. The resulting corner from Robson was met by Garry Kenneth but his header was cleared off the line by goal scorer Ross. Towards the end of the half, the lead could have been doubled but Samson did well to tip a Gow lob over the crossbar.

The second half was a less entertaining affair but the game sprung into life with twenty minutes left when Howard made two brilliant goal line saves, firstly from Fernandez and then from Alan Archibald. United were pressing for an equaliser and Fernandez again was involved five minutes later when a thunderous strike from 25 yards out was superbly tipped over by an in-form Howard. As much as they pushed for the leveller, it was not to be for United and the full time whistle was warmly greeted by the home crowd.