Dundee Utd 2
Hibernian 1
League (Premier Division)

Match Report

For the third time in eight days we completed a match as winners by the odd goal in three. This victory was all the more important as it clinched our presence in next season's UEFA Cup as we could now finish no lower than third in the League. This, however, was a victory achieved by a Tannadice shadow squad, with Ian Redford, captain for the day, destined to be the only starter in the UEFA Cup Final the following Wednesday.

It didn't take the United younqsters long to make their presence felt. Billy McKinlay's cross from the left was headed down by Gary McGinnis and Kevin Gallacher, facing his own goal, lofted the ball over the advancing Rough and into the net via the post. Only six minutes later an Ian Redford header was fumbled by Rough and an ensuing scramble in the Hibs defence ended with a penalty after a clearance struck Rae. Skipper Ian Redford beat Alan Rough low down from the spot. Hibs did pull one back four minutes from the interval thanks to a fine solo effort by Dougie Bell.

As our inexperience began to show Hibs improved in the second half and were offered a life line five minutes from the end when they were awarded a penalty. Dave Beaumont's tackle on Eddie May was harshly penalised but Scott Thomson, making his debut, ensured justice was done with a fine diving save from Steve Cowan's penalty. The second half also saw the first appearance of winger Joe Mcleod, who replaced Billy McKinlay at the interval.