Dundee Utd 1
Dunfermline 2
League (SPL)

Match Report

United made the brighter start and were rewarded with the opening goal in 8 minutes. Uncertainty in the Dunfermline defence led to McIntyre breaking clear and, after he was brought down by visiting keeper Derek Stillie, Referee Clark awarded a deserved penalty. Mark Wilson stepped up to take the kick and was rewarded with his third goal of the season, slotting calmly into the bottom right corner. United were given little time to celebrate though, as Dunfermline stunned the hosts with an immediate equaliser. Richie Byrne found space down the left and Andy Tod poked his cross into the far corner of the net. United reacted well however and proceeded to create several first half chances, with Karim Kerkar and Jason Scotland causing many problems for the Dunfermline rearguard. Dunfermline also threatened, with Barry Nicholson coming close before Darren Young wasted a good chance to put his side ahead. It was McIntyre who came the closest to scoring for United right on the stroke of half time, but his curling shot was tipped superbly over the bar by Stillie when a goal looked certain.

After an immensely entertaining first half both sides were limited to only a few chances during the second period. United hit the woodwork in 55 minutes when strong play by Scotland caused panic in the Dunfermline box. The Trinidadian turned and struck a left foot shot, which he was unfortunate to see deflected onto the top of the crossbar. Sadly for the Tangerines, this was to be as close as they came to scoring as Dunfermline started to come more and more into the game. Karim Kerkar was substituted on 65 minutes and this seemed to deflate the home side somewhat. Dodds and Grady were sent on in the latter stages in an attempt to secure three much needed points. United then were shocked by a Dunfermline winner in injury time. Grant Brebner lost possession in his own half which allowed Billy Mehmet to run clear down the right. His cross found Darren Young unmarked six yards out and he buried his header with goalkeeper Paul Jarvie helpless.

United were shocked to lose all three points in the dying seconds however only have themselves to blame after a poor second half display. On chances created they could have been well in control at half time, with Scotland in particular unlucky not to open his account for the season. Karim Kerkar made an impressive debut and his removal midway through the second period proved to be significant. Credit must go to Dunfermline for pushing right to the final whistle and securing three valuable points. Ian McCall now has the job of lifting his players as next Saturday’s derby at Dens takes on even greater importance.