Dundee Utd 2
Dunfermline 1
League (Division Two)

Match Report

A pulsating, galloping, rushing and slashing display was the highlight of today's exhibition as United and Dunfermline battled it out in the final game of the Second Division campaign in search of promotion, and emerging victorious, United secured their place in Scottish football's upper circle for the second time with a 2-1 win.

Dunfermline's effort was a good one despite having to make six changes prior to the game, leaving United, the home team and the form team, with a distinct advantage. Just a quarter hour into the game Bill McCallum was tested and remained busy for a spell. Ultimately, the Fifers' forward line was lacking in weight and real penetration and before long United's superiority told. The prospect of an out and thriller was quashed on eighteen minutes when Denis McCallum did the necessary when he nodded a Kay cross through the outstretched fingers of Dunfermline 'keeper Coupar to make it 1-0. United could very well have added to their tally in the first half, but erratic finishing let them down.

The second half started with something of a shock as Athletic's Bobby Lind, a former rugby player, got away from United's back to reduce the leeway. The game looked set to seesaw for a time as Dunfermline played with renewed determination, however, a goal from Andy Haddow with twenty minutes remaining restored United's grasp on the game. With five minutes remaining, Dunfermline fans could be seen making their way for the exits as United looked firmly in control and upon full time, the home crowd rejoiced as their team had secured promotion, to join Third Lanark in the First Division.