East Stirling 0 – 4 Dundee United – Match Reaction
Jon Daly and Johnny Russell celebrate.
It was a wet and windy day in central Scotland but, despite the conditions, United had no problems brushing aside a plucky East Stirling side.
It certainly wasn’t a great day for a game of football but backed by a 2000 strong away support, the Arabs done what they had to do and set up a fifth round tie away to fellow SPL side Hamilton Accies.
The inclusion of youngster Johnny Russell in the side raised a few eyebrows but it was a decison gaffer Craig Levein did not regret. The teenage striker has already played on Ochilviews artificial surface this season, bagging a brace for his loan side Forfar in his last outing there, and Levein felt that there was no better time to give Russell his first start for the club.
And, with 55 minutes on the clock, Russell picked the ball up and darted towards the oppositions goal. His twisting run was stopped short by Shire defender Craig Tully and referee Mike Tumilty had no hesitation in pointing to the spot.
And it was left to Russell to stoke the penalty home to top off the win.
Russell’s goal followed strikes by Prince Bauben, Darren Dods and Jon Daly.
In goal for East Stirling was another teenage débutante. Jim McInally was forced into starting rookie 17 year old Jamie Newman. The lad was on the end of four goals but he should not be too disheartened by his performance as, it would be fair to say, he didn’t deserve it.
All in all from United’s point of view though, it was a professional performance and, in the end, an easy victory.
Bar one or two little chances for the home team, our goalkeeper and defence were never really put under too much pressure.
The midfield had the time and space to move the ball around and the forwards were not short of chances.
So it’s onwards to the next round, with an away tie against Hamilton to look forward to. With the pleasantries exchanged between both managers following the last match, it could make for a fiery encounter.
The tie will be played on the 7/8 February.
