Both teams set out with the intention of passing the ball but neither made any significant progress towards the opposition goal. United had the better possession and Ruddy was the busier keeper though he had only to cut out a few high balls. Referee Somers hardly helped the game to flow and there were lots of interruptions as he insisted on having his part in proceedings at every opportunity.
A first half attack
Jimbo produced a tactical change ten minutes before the break when he pulled Jennings and sent on Jukiewicz. Striker number two almost found the net within a minute when he turned and shot from twenty yards forcing Weaver to produce a fine save at the postage stamp corner. O'Brien had an effort on target just before the whistle but the travelling fans had to hope that the manager could deliver the required inspiration in his half time talk if the deadlock was to be broken.
United pressed hard when we had possession and the tactic knocked us off our stride. We continued to rebuff their attacks and forced them into wide positions and Ruddy looked comfortable with their crossed balls. Both teams began to use the long ball in an attempt to create a chance but the opener came from United mistake.
Dillon was dreadfully short with a clearance and O'Brien picked up the loose ball and charged into the box. He was promptly felled by the same defender and the penalty was awarded. Forbes lived up to his remarks in midweek and coolly slotted the ball in at the keeper's left hand post. We had an unlikely lead.
Ruddy took another step on his way to cult status when he produced a fantastic series of blocks in the 77th minute. Three United shots pinned our man to his line, none from more that three yards as it seemed that they must equalise in the scramble inside the six yard box. He got an ovation from the away fans.
United continued their pursuit of the leveller but we held on for a terrific win and the undefeated run continues.