Report: Dundee United 0 'Well 2

Last updated : 11 October 2003 By Firparkcorner
Eric Black was able to field the same starting eleven for consecutive games and they continued with the same momentum as they finished the game on Wednesday evening.

From Karl Ready's slightly purple shaved head at the back through to James McFadden's wee pony tail at the front it was soon apparent that everyone had their head focussed on the job.

Although there were no goals in the first half we had the balance of the play. We started by attacking the South Stand end and forced two corners before the scoreboard clock had reached two minutes.

The opposition's chance was blown after fifteen minutes when a short backward header from Strong gave Hamilton a scoring opportunity but he found the side net.

McFadden, Lasley and Pearson had fair attempts on target but no breakthough. Our back three seemed untroubled by the rare United attacks.

The second half was barely five minutes old when Pearson was fouled thirty yards out after a good midfield run. Stuart Elliott took the free kick and seemed not to strike the ball cleanly. It landed at Faddy's feet and he side footed into the net. A bit of fortune but a wonderful finish.

The expected United response was weak. When needed our defence was firm. Ready sent two clearances over the main stand and Woods main contribution came from a series of excellent throws.

We needed to kill the game off and we did. After good work down the right wing from Soloy, McFadden teased the defence on the right of the box before sending over a deep cross the half clearance fell to Hammell. His debut goal beckoned. The volley thundered into the net giving Gallagher no chance. Game over.

Nicholas came on for Leitch and just before the end Martinez replaced McFadden - he got a deserved ovation from the happy 'Well fans.

Eric said after the match, "It's the players that deserve the credit". Bring on Dunfermline.