Powerful Gunning earns United three points

Starting XI (Dundee United): Cierzniak, Watson, Robertson, Rankin, Gunning, Good, Mackay-Steven, Paton, Ciftci, Armstrong and Dow

Subs: Dillon, Graham, Wilson, McCallum, Gomis, El Alagui and Connolly

Booked: Ciftci

Subs Used: El Alagui and Connolly

Starting XI (Motherwell): Nielsen, Hammell, Francis-Angol, Lasley, Hutchinson, McManus, Ainsworth, Carswell, Sutton, McFadden and Vigurs

Subs: Hollis, Reid, Murray, Anier, Leitch, Shirkie and Thomas

Booked: None

Subs Used: Reid and Anier

My Man of the Match: Curtis Good


Dundee United make two changes to the side that beat Kilmarnock 2-1 last weekend (15th February) with Gauld and Souttar being dropped from the team all together, Gauld being replaced by Dow and Souttar replaced by Gunning who is returning to the team after an injury. Motherwell don't make any changes to the team who won 4-3 against Partick Thistle last weekend (15th February).

As United were trying to keep their winning run going they were ready to get stuck right into the game. Even though Motherwell were quick off the mark through Vigurs. This only last 4/5 minutes until United got their feet and managed to get back in the game. Robertson and Rankin both having chances which were both missed. This got United fans excited and began to get them to back the team.

It was all about United for the next 15 minutes. A delay did occur when Rankin was down because of an injury. This didn't last long and he was back pushing the Motherwell defence. Ciftci's shot was missed with it just going high. This kept pressure on the Motherwell goal. Eventually United managed to break the dead lock.

photo; Good and Gunning celebrating

Goal One (Dundee United, Ryan Dow, 22nd minute): Dow one on one with the keeper, Nielsen goes down to fast and he manages to slip it past him and into the back of the net. United take the lead.

Pressure began to build even more on the Motherwell goal, with Robertson missing his shot. Mackay-Steven's shot getting his shot blocked from outside the box and Watson's goal was saved.

The continuous pressure on the Motherwell defence, started to worry them and made them break down. This allowed United to get right into the game and mange to break them up. Gunning having a shot which was saved after he put a header into the hands of Nielsen.

However, Motherwell started to get back into the game with Vigurs doing a lot of the pressing but this wasn't enough for them to equalise with United. The United defence was just too good for the team. The next 10 minutes would just be spent going from end to end with each team having attempts but neither getting one in the back of the net.

photo; Dow celebrating

Goal Two (Dundee United, Gavin Gunning, 42nd minute): A corner from Dow,Ciftci headers it goal wards. Gunning a yard out, manages to put it back Nielsen and gives United the second goal.

After the teams played an extra minute they half ended with United being two goals up.

Half Time Dundee United 2 - 0 Motherwell

The first half was all about Dundee United, with them taking most of the possession and the opportunities to score goals. This definitely showed because they go into the second half, two goals up. This should make the second half more comfortable for the boys. Both of the changes that were made to the team have scored, I think it shows that the team can adapt to whoever is playing.

The first play of the second half was a free kick for United. Three boys stepped up and it lead to a goal.

Goal Three (Dundee United, Gavin Gunning, 47th minute): Three players line up to take the free kick, Ciftci steps over the ball. Gunning steps up and drills it past the Motherwell wall, off the right post and into the back of the net. This surely wraps up the points for United.

United did start off the second half strong with them gaining two corners within the space of a couple of minutes. Rankin having a pop at goal. But Motherwell started to get back into the game and United started to stand down. This allowed Motherwell to open them up.

Goal Four (Motherwell, penalty, John Sutton, 57th minute): A very debated penalty as the referee sees a handball by Ciftci. Gives the penalty and Sutton manages to sends Cierzniak the wrong way and gives Motherwell that goal that they needed. 

photo; Rankin in action


The goal was enough to get United back into the game. Mackay-Steven and Armstrong both having a shot at goal but nothing was able to be in the back of the net. The United team really got back into the game and started playing like they did during the first half after Motherwell started pressuring the United end.

Ciftci done brilliantly goal bound along with Mackay-Steven and El Alagui when he came on. They all had shots but again nothing managing to get into the back of the net. This would have gave United more of a comfortable lead as McFadden and Anier both pressuring Cierzniak in goal. However the half did end after 3 minutes extra time with United getting the win.

Full Time Dundee United 3 - 1 Motherwell

A penalty that could have been debated saw Motherwell gain one goal back but it was a very comfortable win for Dundee United. A less younger team then previous weeks, this showed that they have fantastic experience throughout the team. Another goal from Gunning early in the first half saw Dundee United secure the points as soon as the second half kicked off. Although the second half wasn't as good as the first one was, it was still really good to watch.

photo; Rankin, Gunning and Ciftci celebrating Gunning's second


Attendance: 7,029

My man of the match for the game was Curtis Good. I chose Curtis because he shows that he is able to work with any defender that Jackie puts beside him. Like Gavin Gunning, Curtis shows a lot of experience for his age. He puts 100% into his game every game. Over the past few weeks, he always does well when he is defending and he is able to get into the box for corners, which will help get some height into the box.

Also a mention for Aidan Connolly, who made his senior debut in the 88th minute. He didn't get a lot of time on the park but it gave the United fans an idea of what he can do. He does brilliantly in the 20s League and thankfully Jackie has noticed this and has allowed him to break into the first team just like Gauld and Souttar has done. Well done Aidan, hope he gets more game time soon.

I would also like to mention the Tangerine Singing Section, that was placed in the Jerry Kerr stand. This section is something that is new to Tannadice and it is made by Arabs who want to bring some atmosphere back to Tannadice. They succeed last night and managed to get both the Eddie Thompson and George Fox stands singing throughout the whole game. For the first time organising it, they done really well, I hope it continues and grows bigger throughout the rest of the season.

photo; Connolly making is debut

Rankin shows his power as United take full points

Starting XI (Dundee United): Cierzniak, Watson, Robertson, Rankin, Good, Souttar, Armstrong, Paton, Ciftci, Mackay-Steven and Gauld

Subs: Dillon, Graham, Wilson, Dow, McCallum, Gomis and El Alagui

Booked: Mackay-Steven

Subs Used: Dow, Gomis and El Alagui

Starting XI (Kilmarnock): Samson, Tesselaar, Clingan, Ashcroft, Muirhead, Pascali, McKenzie, Irvine, Boyd, Eremenko and Slater

Subs: Nicholson, Johnston, Moberg-Karlsson, Maksimenko, O'Hara, Brennan and Kiltie

Booked: Eremenko

Subs Used: Johnston

My Man of the Match: John Rankin

photo; my man of the match celebrating his goal


Dundee United make one change to the team that won 2-1 against St Mirren in the Scottish Cup Fifth Round tie on February 9th, swapping Wilson for Waston. Kilmarnock also make one change to the team that won 2 all with Ross County on February 1st, swapping Kiltie for Eremenko.

Dundee United were looking to keep their winning run of 2014 going. This showed as soon as the game kicked off because within a minute they were pressuring the Kilmarnock goal and gained a corner. The corner kept the pressure on the Kilmarnock goal and Ciftci managed to take a shot but it was just to high. This continued for the next five minutes.

Goal One (Dundee United, Gary Mackay-Steven, 10th minute): From a Kilmarnock corner, United stormed up the wing. Mackay-Steven got the ball at the half way line, went himself and slotted it passed Samson. Allowing United to take the lead within the first ten minutes.

Dundee United kept the pressure on Kilmarnock, but they did give Kilmarnock back into the game a little bit. However, Dundee United were still the better team as Mackay-Steven takes a shot from the pressure from Kilmarnock. Dundee United kept possession with Ciftci getting many attempts, this continued for the first 25 minutes of the game.

After 25 minutes, Kilmarnock managed to get back into the game with Boyd having a shot on goal which was held well by Cierzniak. Irvine also has a shot but it hit the post. This made Dundee United want to get back into the game and gain possession again and make their lead more comfortable. Attempts from Rankin and Mackay-Steven just weren't enough for them to double their lead.

Goal Two (Kilmarnock, Alexei Eremenko, 39th minute): A poorly taken goal kick from Cierzniak, allowed Kilmarnock to gain possession back and a wonderful strike from Eremenko allowed Kilmarnock to go level as they go into the break.

Kilmarnock's goal was a boost for the Ayrshire side but neither side managed to get another goal in before the half ended.

Half Time Dundee United 1 - 1 Kilmarnock

The first half was mostly all about Dundee United, with them taking the early lead through Mackay-Steven, then they managed to keep the momentum up until around 5 minutes to go. This is when the Ayrshire side was brought back into the game through Eremenko.

photo; Paton in action


As soon as the second half began Kilmarnock were looking to extend their lead. However, Ciftci was doing well putting pressure on the Kilmarnock keeper. Boyd didn't let this stop him having a pop at goal, his attempt was missed. This continued with Slater and Boyd both taking shots. Dundee United tried to get back into through Robertson and Rankin, both looking to get their goals.

Goal Three (Kilmarnock, Rory McKenzie, 63rd minute): A run from Kilmarnock saw Cierzniak come out quickly this saw Boyd have a collusion, however McKenzie was at the goal to just tap it in when Robertson missed the ball.

A corner conceded by Muirhead allowed Dundee United to get back into the game.

Goal Four (Dundee United, Curtis Good, 64th minute): A beautiful corner taken from Mackay-Steven allowed Good to blast it fantastically passed Samson into the top right hand corner. Fantastic first goal from Good sees United equalise after going a goal down less than two minutes before.

Except pressure from both teams, nothing happened in between these two goals. However, Rankin did take a shot before he took the lead for Dundee United.

Goal Five (Dundee United, John Rankin, 71st minute): A great team effort, saw Ciftci fire the ball into the box. It manages to reach Rankin. Right on the bi-line, he blasts it at the far post and luckily it manages to bounce into the back of the net. This gave United all three points.

Kilmarnock wanted to at least take a point from the game. They were struggling to break down the United team. By the end of the game, United were definitely the stronger team as they just kept pushing the Kilmarnock defenders to try and make their lead more comfortable. 

Full Time Dundee United 3 - 2 Kilmarnock

The game overall, was mostly all about Dundee United and it showed how hard they have been working throughout the past few weeks in training. The win the week before also help them gain more confidence in themselves and their team. Kilmarnock after going 2-1 up they bottled it basically and let Good and Rankin break through their defence and score fantastic goals.

photo; Good celebrating his goal


Attendance: 6,038

My man of the match was John Rankin, I chose him as my man of the match because he is so passionate about getting the win for the boys. He is so confident at defending as well as getting forward and creating goals. Also with Dillon being sidelined and Armstrong being taken off, Rankin was handed the captains armband which was just amazing to see as he is a fantastic captain.

Legend of Scotland - David Narey

David (Dave) Narey is a legend around Tannadice Park and in Scotland. Narey was born June 12th 1956, through everything he has earned a MBE for his work in sporting and other things. Narey was born and raised in Dundee, Scotland. This allowed him to spend the majority of his career at Dundee United.

Dave Narey signed his contract at United January 6th 1972 at the young age of 15. During these years, players done apprenticeships, Narey began his May 11th 1973 at the age of 16. Before signing for United he played for St. Columba's Boys Club. Within a few months of signing for United he had joined the ground staff but continued to play for St. Columba's Boys Club. On his 17th birthday, he became a professional footballer. Three months later on November 21st 1973, he got his first team debut at the age of 17, this was against Falkirk. His progress showed how good of a footballer he was and by the end of his first season he was listed at number 15 in the squad which represented United in the Club's first ever Scottish Cup Final on 4 May 1974. 

Before I get into the details about Narey's career in Football, I would like to mention a bit about his playing style. He was one of the most talented and versatile defenders of his time and could play anywhere in the back four. He could also operate in midfield, which he did on many occasions for Scotland, and he started his United career in this area of the team. From 1979 onwards he formed a formidable partnership with Paul Hegarty at the heart of the defence and it was this pairing which was fundamental to the success of United for over a decade. Although both were capped many times for their country it's a curious fact that they only played twice together for Scotland; in 1979 against Argentina and four years later against Northern Ireland. 

'The Narey' approach was to go about his job with the minimum of fuss which sometimes led him to being underrated by opposition fans who only saw him once or twice a season, but he was certainly not underrated by teammates, opponents or United fans. His individualistic style truly set him aside as a player of distinction. His efforts and energy were always contained, unfluried and unflamboyant but he had great pace and athleticism when required, unerringly accurate distribution skills and his unrivalled reading of the game and positional play contributed to many perfectly timed interventions.

photo;head shot


Back to his first season at United and the difference between his debut and the cup final The atmosphere generated by the 75,959 who watched the 1974 Scottish Cup Final made a stark contrast to the crowd of only 1,250 who saw Dave Narey make his first team debut in a 2-1 win over Falkirk on 21 November 1973. The poor attendance, reputedly the lowest at Tannadice since the War, was caused by the match having to be played on a Wednesday afternoon due to a Government floodlights ban which was prompted by a miners strike at the time. Also in his first season saw him make ten starts in the first team and two appearances as a substitute. For the next sixteen years he would be a virtual ever-present in the tangerine ranks. In September 1974 Dave made his European debut in the Cup Winners' Cup and scored in a 3-0 home leg win over Jiul Petrosani in a match which also marked the first-team debut of a certain Paul Sturrock. 

Back in November 1977 a sixty-eight year old Club ambition was achieved when Dave Narey became the first-ever Dundee United player to be selected for Scotland and such was the pride of everyone at Tannadice that the Lion Rampant was flown from the roof of the Main Stand. David Narey went on to play thirty-five times for Scotland although some commentators felt he could have amassed a greater number of caps. He was famously quiet at international training camps and it is claimed by some that his preference to stay in the background and a general lack of assertiveness held him back. Certainly other players might have been less willing to lay their reputations on the line by being continually played out of position for Scotland but, as usual, Dave let his skills talk for him.

As a central defender it would be unfair to expect too many goals from the Narey boots and head, although his European total of six goals outshines many a famous striker's Euro total. It is all the more ironic that, after years of establishing himself as just about the coolest and most able defender you could wish to see, his lasting fame is linked with one goal. 

photo;Scotland 1982


A few stats for his Scotland International Career:

Scotland Under 21's (Five caps)
1976/77 Czechoslovakia, Switzerland
1977/78 Switzerland, Czechoslovakia
1978/79 Norway
Scotland Under 23's (Three caps)
1974/75 V USSR
1975/76 V Denmark (twice)

Scottish League (One cap)
1978/79 v Irish League

Scotland (35 caps)
1976/77 v Sweden (sub)
1978/79 v Portugal, Northern Ireland (sub), Argentina
1979/80 V Portugal, Northern Ireland, Poland, Hungary
1980/81 v Wales, England (sub)

photo;Scotland's first goal

This was some record for a central defender who was the first person in a clubs 68 years history who got a Scotland cap. Along with some stats from his career at Dundee United:

Appearances:

Scottish League; 612 with 22 goals

Scottish Cups; 70 (which is a club record) with 6 goals

League Cup; 108 (another club record) with 1 goal

European; 76 (yet again another club record) with 6 goals

In total that is 866 appearances with 35 goals in his 22 year career at Dundee United

Medals he received:

Scottish League Championship Winners (Premier League Now); 1983 with 1 goal

Scottish League Cup Winner; 1979 and 1980 with 2 goals

UEFA Cup Finalist; 1987 with 1 goal

Scottish Cup Finalist; 1981,1985,1987, 1988 and 1991 with 5 goals

Scottish League Cup Finalists; 1981 and 1984 with 2 goals

Narey modesty surfaced again when it was announced in 1992 that he had been awarded an MBE for his services to football. "I'm only a footballer" was the gist of his response. He wasn't only a footballer. He was one of the most respected footballers in Scotland and there were thousands of United fans who were delighted when on 18 November 1992 at Buckingham Palace he received his MBE. 

photo; '83 team

In his last season at Tannadice there was a long spell when he did not feature in the first team but in the Scottish Cup Fourth Round replay at Fir Park on 1 March 1994 he returned to action, strolled through the game and stole the show.

On 21 May 1994, an amazing 20 years after Dave Narey had first been associated with United in a Cup Final, United finally won the Scottish Cup The scenes at the end included the sight of Dave Narey dancing about like a sand boy. There were no show of envy towards the players who had won the one honour which had eluded Dave after 22 years and five final defeats. What made his evident pleasure in the joy of others so remarkable was that he had been given a free transfer by United the day before the Final.

This wasn't the last of the amazing Dave Narey, but there was one more episode. In Season 1994/95 he joined Raith Rovers and within four months was a League Cup winner all over again with a classy display for the Kirkcaldy men in the final at Ibrox against Celtic.

Scottish Cup Fifth Round - Round Up

                 
                                    The Scottish Cup trophy

The Fifth Round of the William Hill Scottish Cup kicked off on Friday, February 7th at Ibrox. This was the first game of the last 16 that took course over that weekend.

Rangers comfortably won 4-0 against Dunfermline at Ibrox. Three fantastic goals from Dean Shiels and one for David Templeton, saw them secure their place in the draw for the Quarter Finals by half time. A match report that I done here: http://scotlandsgame.blogspot.co.uk/2014/02/rangers-storm-passed-dunfermline

photo; hatrick hero Dean Shiels


The Saturday action kicked off at Celtic Park (Parkhead), which saw Aberdeen have the first shock of the cup with them taking the lead after going down 1 goal within the first ten minutes of the game. A goal from Anthony Stokes saw Celtic take the early lead in the game. Aberdeen came back level with 5 minutes to go till half time through a Russell Anderson. Aberdeen then took the lead at 50 minutes through Peter Pawlett. Celtic weren't able to keep Aberdeen at bay in the lunchtime kick off.

photo;winners Aberdeen celebrating


The next game to kick off was Hibernian against Raith Rovers, which saw Raith Rovers have the second shock of the cup, with Raith taking the lead twice but Hibernian managing to get back in it twice. Raith Rovers began the game with an early goal coming from Kevin Moon within 6 minutes. Hibernian put pressure on the Raith goal and managed to pull a goal back by the quarter hour mark, through Samuel Stanton. With half time drawing it look as if they were going to go level with one goal each into the second half. However, Raith took the lead for a second time just before half time through Dougie Hill. This didn't stop Hibernian though during stoppage time, they equalised through Michael Nelson. Raith took their final lead just after the hour mark, where Grant Anderson slotted it past the keeper to give Raith their third goal of the afternoon. Raith managed to hold on to their lead and progress to the next round of the cup.

photo;Raith Rovers celebrating

A serious of three o'clock kick offs' around the country saw another two cup shocks. The first shock game during the Albion Rovers and Stenhousemuir, Albion looked like they were going to go a goal down as Stenhousemuir were pressuring them. However, Ross McMillan of Stenhousemuir gave Albion Rovers the lead just before the break through an own goal. Soon after the replay Stenhousemuir tried to get back into the game but by the 67th minute Albion Rovers extended their lead through Gary Phillips. This meant that League Two side Albion Rovers would progress to the Quarter Finals.

photo;Ablion Rovers team celebrate


The second cup shock was the draw between Stranraer and Inverness Caledonian Thistle. Inverness CT were showing what they could really do as they took the lead through Aaron Doran at the 40 minute mark. However, just before the break Stranraer brought themselves back into the lead through Martin Grehan. This saw both teams going into the break level. At the 70 minute mark Stranraer took the lead, this time through, Jamie Longworth which was after a series of Inverness corners and pressure on the Stranraer goal. Again, as soon as the game kicked off again Inverness equalised through Billy McKay. The rest of the game it was all Inverness but they weren't able to put the ball in the back of the net. It ended 2 all and the reply shall be played Tuesday, February 18th.

photo;Doran taking a shot


The other two games were won by the teams who everyone thought would win it. Firstly, Alloa and Dumbarton. Dumbarton only managed to get one goal through Colin Nish in the 31st minute of the game. However, Alloa put up a good fight to try and get back into the game but they weren't able to equalise. So it was Dumbarton who booked their place in the Quarter Finals draw.

photo;game action


The final game to be played on Saturday was Forfar and St Johnstone. Again another game where everyone thought Forfar would get thrashed however 4-0 wasn't at all a bad score line considering the conditions and the differences between both of the teams. Goals from Stevie May, Frazer Wright, Michael O'Halloran and James Dunne meant that St Johnstone would join the rest of the teams into the draw that would be getting made after the Dundee United St Mirren game. I wrote a blog on this game which you can go here to read it: http://scotlandsgame.blogspot.co.uk/2014/02/saints-prove-to-much-for-loons.html

photo;May celebrating his opening goal


The only game to be played on Sunday, February 9th and the final game of the round is between Dundee United and St Mirren at Tannadice. Dundee United were looking to get their first win of 2014 and it really showed that they were up for a good cup run. It took an attempt from St Mirren to get Dundee United into the game. However, young gun Ryan Gauld put Dundee United up on the 20 minute mark through an assist from Nadir Ciftci. A softly given penatly saw Kenny McLean put St Mirren level with 20 minutes to go in the first half. United kept pressing and at the 50 minute mark Nadir Ciftci put Dundee United 2-1 up. The rest of the game was pretty equal however Dundee United looked a bit nervy in the final third of the pitch. Dundee United managed to keep a hold of their lead and booked their place in the afternoons draw.A blog I have written on the game which you can read here: http://scotlandsgame.blogspot.co.uk/2014/02/dundee-united-and-st-mirren.html

photo;Dundee United team celebrating Ciftci's goal


The draw for the Quarter Finals was made after the round up of the Dundee United St Mirren game. Rangers will play Albion Rovers at home. After the replay on the 18th February either Stranraer or Inverness with play at home to Dundee United. Dumbarton will make the trip to Pittodrie to play Aberdeen and St Johnstone will make the short trip to play Raith Rovers. These fixtures will be played the weekend of the 8th and 9th March. Well done to each team who made it into the Quarter Finals.

Ciftci Saves the Day as United progress into the Quarter Finals

        

Tannadice Park

Starting XI (Dundee United): Cierzniak, Wilson, Robertson, Rankin, Souttar, Good, Mackay-Steven, Paton, Ciftci, Gauld and Armstrong
Subs: Dillon, Graham, Watson, Dow, McCallum, Gomis and El Alagui
Booked: Robertson and Rankin
Subs Used: El Alagui, Gomis and Dow

Starting XI (St Mirren): Kello, Kelly, Naismith, Newton, McAusland, McGregor, Goodwin, Djemba-Djemba, Thompson, McGowan and McLean
Subs: van Zanten, Campbell, Reilly, Teale, Brady, Dilo and Morgan
Booked: Goodwin, Djemba-Djemba, Thompson and McLean
Subs Used: Campbell and Teale

My Man of the Match: Nadir Ciftci

photo;my man of the match, Paton and Armstrong


As soon as the game kicked off it was clear that this was going to be a tough game for both teams with Thompson and Armstrong taking early chances. These came to nothing though and it remained pretty equal for the first five minutes.

For the next five or ten minutes, it was mostly all about United with Armstrong having another shot at goal but again it was blocked. It was much of a passing part of the game and trying to get up the park. With St Mirren getting a corner at the 17 minute mark, United managed to get away from the goal kick and ran up the park with it to create a chance on goal.

Goal One Dundee United (Ryan Gauld, 21st minute): Ciftci makes a fantastic run past Djemba-Djemba. Cuts back to Gauld who tucks it into the far corner. This means that Dundee United take the early lead in this cup tie.

There wasn't much action to report on during the two goals. It was just a time for holding United's lead but St Mirren were pressing them as much as they could.

Goal One St Mirren (Kenny McLean, Penalty, 26th minute): A soft penalty call from St Mirren man McLean after being tripped up in the box by Wilson. McLean steps up to the spot and sense Cierzniak the wrong way allowing St Mirren to equalise.

As soon as play re-started, it began to become a United show for the next ten minutes with Rankin, Armstrong, Mackay-Steven and Ciftci all getting chances which were either saved or missed. During this period it was very full on the game with St Mirren giving away many free kicks for inexperienced tackles.

When the break approached it looked as if United were going to get another goal as they were looking like the better team, with Ciftci doing fantastically on the ball.

Half Time Dundee United 1 - 1 St Mirren

photo; Gauld going up for a header


The first half was very mixed with both teams having good chances on goal but it was Dundee United who took the lead thanks to Gauld but St Mirren quickly came back into it through a penalty scored by McLean, but they weren't able to take any chances from Dundee United they were just too powerful for St Mirren.

Dundee United were determind to take the lead in this game and this meant that the second half would start of very exciting for the United supporters with two corners coming in a row and the second one leading to a goal.

Goal Two Dundee United (Nadir Ciftci, 50th minute): A Wilson corner is sent into the box a St Mirren player gets his head on it but only as far as Paton who pulls it back to Wilson. Wilson passes it to Mackay-Steven, who crosses it into the box allowing Ciftci to blot his header past Kello. Giving United the lead once again.

Dundee United tried to get another goal so that it was comfortable for them, chances coming from Mackay-Steven and Robertson right after play re-started.

Goodwin tried to get St Mirren back into the game but his shot was just too high. This struck a series of shots from St Mirren with McLean and Thompson having shots saved by Cierzniak. However, United didn't let this bother them as young gun Gauld was goal bound but unfortunately his shot was blocked outside the box.

The rest of the match was equal again with both teams having a good amount of chances on goal but neither making any of them hit the back of the net. Both sets of defenders done well to keep the attack at bay. Gauld and Thompson stood out during this point of the game, with both of them trying to give each of their teams the goal that could change the whole game.

Full Time Dundee United 2 - 1 St Mirren

photo; both goal scorers


Overall, the game was very much of a Dundee United dominated game. It took an attempt from St Mirren to get Dundee United into the game. However, young gun Ryan Gauld put Dundee United up on the 20 minute mark through an assist from Nadir Ciftci. A softly given penatly saw Kenny McLean put St Mirren level with 20 minutes to go in the first half. United kept pressing and at the 50 minute mark Nadir Ciftci put Dundee United 2-1 up. The rest of the game was pretty equal however Dundee United looked a bit nervy in the final third of the pitch. Dundee United managed to keep a hold of their lead and booked their place in the afternoons draw

Attendance: 4,952

My man of the match was Nadir Ciftci as his ball work struck a bad chord for the St Mirren defence. He also executed the balls well and was up for making the game difficult for St Mirren. Nadir also has a brilliant link up play with fellow striker Ryan Gauld. Also both of his set up of the goal and his goal itself, were both executed well, this shows how he is able to set up goals and score them.

photo;Good in action


I would also like to mention John Rankin and Curtis Good. Both of these done well in their roles during the game. John managed to get into positions which would help the team get into spaces for them to recieve the ball and get up the park with it which in turn would help them create chances. As for Curtis, he has shown how much experience he has. His link up play with Souttar allows Robertson and Wilson to get up the park to help the midfield area while they stay back and make sure that everything is going well.

Saints prove to much for Loons

                      Station Park

Starting XI (Forfar): Douglas, Baxter, Campbell, Fotheringham, Malcolm, Dods, Kader, Fusco, Swankie, Templeman and Faeroe.

Subs: Campbell, Andrews, McCabe, Malin, Dale, Hilson and Hill

Booked: Hilson

Subs Used: Campbell, Hilson and Malin

Starting XI (St Johnstone): Banks, Mackay, Easton, Cregg, Wright, Anderson, Croft, McDonald, O'Halloran, May and Wotherspoon.

Subs: Millar, Hasselbaink, Dunne, Miller, Brown, Iwelumo and Hurst

Booked: O'Halloran

Subs Used: Brown, Iwelumo and Dunne

My Man of the Match: Dale Hilson

Photo; my man of the match

The first 25 minutes were very poor from both sides. Although good football was being played between both sides. Most of this period was all Forfar. This looked pleasing as St Johnstone only had one chance coming from May within 8 minutes. Fotheringham had a brilliant chance on goal but his shot just went wide of the post. Himself and Faeroe made a fantastic team up front for Forfar.

Goal 1 (Stevie May, 27th minute): A right footed shot from the left side of the six yard box to the bottom right corner. Allows St Johnstone to take the lead at Station Park.

Again the next 20 minutes was very poor after St Johnstone took the lead. Forfar again trying to push the St Johnstone defence but they weren't budging.

At this point in time it started to become a St Johnstone dominated game. A corner conceded by Malcolm allowed St Johnstone to re-arrange and get into a position for scoring a goal.

Goal 2 (Frazer Wright, 42nd minute): A header from the left side of the six yard box to the bottom left corner. Another poor defended goal sees St Johnstone go 2-0 up as we go into the break.

The last play of the game was again very equal. The first half ended with St Johnstone looking like the better side as they were 2 goals up as they went into the break.

Half time Forfar 0 - 2 St Johnstone

Photo;Douglas doing his best in goal

A strong St Johnstone side proved difficult for Forfar. However, Forfar did brilliantly at keeping them at bay for such a long time and only letting them score 2 goals within the first half when they could have been able to score so many more.

As the second half began, Forfar were so determind to get back into the game. As they brought on Hilson at the start of the half, he was a pair of young fresh legs. Hilson managed to make a fantastic impact as he allowed Forfar to get wider and further up the park.

The first ten minutes of the second half were all about Forfar. Shots coming from Faeore and Fusco. Along with a few corners.

However, just before we reached the half hour mark St Johnstone started to give Forfar more pressure. With Wotherspoon trying to get the third goal to help St Johnstone secure their place in the next round. But Forfar still managed to be in the game with Faeore getting another shot just before O'Halloran adds his name to the score sheet.

Goal 3 (Michael O'Halloran, 63rd minute):  A right footed shot from the left side of the box to the centre of the goal. A helpless Douglas and poor Forfar defence sees St Johnstone seal their place in the Quarter Finals of the Scottish Cup.

As soon as the game restarted May had another shot on goal but didn't manage to get it past Douglas.

It quickly became a pretty even game again, with both teams having equal chances. However, it was obvious that Forfar weren't going to be able to get back into the game and come back and win it. They did do their best during this period though.

Goal 4 (James Dunne, 79th minute): A left footed shot from the centre of the box to the top right corner. This shot was unstoppable for Douglas. This was definetly match over for Forfar. 

The Forfar team looked as if they were getting tired as they were becoming wide open to St Johnstones' strikers. However, a fresh pair of legs, Malin, tried to get Forfar off the mark. But he didn't manage this as the St Johnstone defence and keeper Banks was just too powerful for him and the rest of the Forfar team.

Full time Forfar 0 - 4 St Johnstone

Photo;May celebrating his opening goal

St Johnstone book their place into the next round of the Scottish Cup, after their 4-0 win over Forfar. Forfar done well for them only being a part time League One side and St Johnstone being a full time team who is in the top six of the Premier League. If you look at the possession ratio, 57% to 43% isn't anything to be ashamed of. The score line might have been hard to take but the football that had been played at Station Park was phenomenal for the teams having such massive differences.

Attendance: 1,803

My man of the match is Dale Hilson because he made such a massive impression during the second half as soon as he came on. During his fourth spell at Forfar on loan from Dundee United, he has shown how much he has improved during his time at Forfar. He managed to get behind the ball during the second half, something that Forfar were missing, along with Templeman. They both did brilliantly getting into spaces and getting on to the ball. 

Rangers storm passed Dunfermline

Starting XI (Rangers): Bell, Faure, Wallace, Black, McCulloch, Mohsni, Aird, Law, Shiels, Daly and Templeton
Subs: Little, Peralta, Cribari, Simonsen, Foster, Smith, Crawford
Booked: Mohsni, Templeton
Subs Used: Peralta, Crawford and Little

• 
  

Starting XI (Dunfermline): Scully, Millen, Whittle, Byrne, Morris, Martin, Williamson, Geggan, Wallace, Shankland and Falkingham
Subs: Thomson, Moore, Young, Husband, El-Bakhtaoui, Drummond and Goodfellow
Booked: Morris and Wallace
Subs Used: Thomson, El-Bakhtaoui and Moore

My Man of the Match: Dean Shiels

photo; hatrick hero

Dunfermline make four changes to the starting XI who won 3-1 against East Fife on the 1st February 2013. Grainger, Page and Forbes out of the team all together with Thomson being dropped to the bench. This makes room for Falkingham, Whittle and Geggan in the starting XI. Rangers however don't make any changes to the team that won 2-1 against Brechin on the 1st. Even though Mohsni got red carded due to it being a cup game he is still allowed to play.

Rangers start of as strong as usual. With them putting pressure on Dunfermline right from the start. A shot from Shiels is held comfortably for Scully. Dunfermline try to keep the pressure on Rangers as they play up and down the park for the first 5 minutes.

Dunfermline looking like they are going to break the dead lock, until Rangers put pressure on Scully for the lead up of the first Shiels goal.

Goal One (Dean Shiels, 7th minute): Great build up play from Templeton. Templeton's shot was blocked but only as far as Shiels to allow him to turn and slot it past Scully to give Rangers the lead in the Cup, with only 7 and a half minutes on the clock.

After Rangers take the lead, Dunfermline as pushing up the park with them putting pressure on Bell in the Rangers goal. It is all very much to play for as we come up to the 15 minute mark.

Law begins to put pressure on the Dunfermline defenders, with a good play in the box but not quite managing to do anything with it. Also Templeton drove up the park but it was held by Scully brilliantly. 

Dunfermline try to get back into the game as we approach the 20 minute mark but Rangers defenders along with Aird doing well to stop the attack.

Goal Two (Dean Shiels, 23th minute): Dunfermline failed to clear after a Daly header was saved. Shiels was waiting at the edge of the 6 yard box to drive it past Scully, to get his second of the evening and put Rangers two goals up and on their way to booking their place in the Quarter Finals.

As we approach the half hour mark, Rangers are looking comfortable on the ball. Dunfermline trying everything they can to try and gain a goal back but they aren't able to break down the strong Rangers defence. First real pressure comes from Shankland, but their corner didn't do anything to pressure Bell in the Rangers goal.

Shiels looks like he is away to get a first half hatrick but Scully manages to hold it after Shiels looses his footing at the edge of the box. Faure along with Shiels again both having attempts on goal but neither of them were into the back of the net.

Goal Three (David Templeton, 37th minute): Templeton takes it himself, wriggles himself past the Dunfermline defence then manages to drill it past Scully. It looks like it is game over as Rangers are now three goals up.

Dunfermline again being to push up the park but they aren't able to get it past the Rangers defence again. The Rangers teams experience is showing with the young Dunfermline side. Aird does well keeping the Dunfermline strikers at bay as they push to get a goal back as we approach half time.

photo;Templeton after he scored


Half Time Rangers 3 - 0 Dunfermline

A very dominated first half by Rangers sees them 3-0 up, as they go into the second half. Dunfermline didn't really do much to pressure the Rangers side. With only four of the Dunfermline side being over 20 it looks very hard for them to break down Rangers. It's onto the second half we go and see how many more goals Rangers can get as they play to win their place in the Quarter finals of the Scottish Cup.

Rangers push as soon as the second half kicks off with Dunfermline trying to make a break through. However, this doesn't help much as Wallace runs up the park heading for goal.

Goal Four (Dean Shiels, 47th minute): Good team play, sees' Wallace have a shot. It gets blocked and pushed back but only as far as Shiels, who manages to slot it passed Scully. For his hatrick. Rangers have now definitely booked their place in the Quarter Finals. Its game over for Dunfermline.

Templeton tries to get on the score sheet again as well. Its all about Rangers now and Dunfermline can't do anything about it, Rangers are just too strong for the Dunfermline side to hold. Rangers manage to get corner after corner which puts more pressure on the Dunfermline defence, however none of the corners are able to get into the back of the net.

Shots coming from McCulloch, Aird and Templeton as they approach the hour mark. However, all of these shots are saved or blocked by Scully or the Dunfermline defence.

The only real attempt from Dunfermline was from Wallace. Rangers had shots from Little.

There wasn't much game action after around the 80 minute mark. It was a poor last 20 minutes as Rangers knew they had won their place into the Quarter Finals.

Full Time Rangers 4 - 0 Dunfermline

photo;action shot


Overall, the game was all about Rangers, they were definitely the better team with them having most of the possessions and attempts on goal. However, for a very young Dunfermline side they done well holding Rangers to only four goals as they were putting a lot of pressure on Scully. Well done to Rangers, who were the first team of the weekend to book their place into the draw for the Quarters, which is drawn on Sunday, February 9th after St Mirren take on Dundee United at Tannadice. 

Attendance: 19,396

My man of the match was Dean Shiels, as he has shown once again that he deserves a place in the Rangers team more often. After being hit with a injured spell at the tail end of the last season and being left out of the team at the start of this season, he has shown McCoist that he deserves to be in the team. Shiels netted his fifth, sixth and seventh goal of the season which is brilliant considering he hadn't played much until the tail end of last year. 

photo;another action shot