St Andrews United went goal crazy 10 days ago when Forfar Albion visited RecreationPark , the Angus side were dispatched back over the river on the wrong end of a 9-2 thrashing.

With Premier league survival secured the previous weekend, Jim Hardie gave chances again to those on the fringes, Conor Finlay came in for Wallace Brown and Kris Maxwell partnered Gary Sutherland in place of David Evans, at left back Ross Dorward was back from injury and replaced Kris Brash.

United came out of the traps like a greyhound chasing a three legged hare, and on 4 minutes took the lead when a Fraser free kick on the left was flicked on by Sutherland and Muhsin tapped home at the back post. On six minutes Muhsin made it 2 when he bundled the ball home after good work by McGuigan and Sutherland. United made it three on 14 minutes when Sutherland met a Fraser corner with a bullet header in to the back of Gordons’ net. With just 18 minutes on the clock, Fraser himself got on to the scoresheet when he headed home a patrick long throw, unchallenged by the Albion defence. United at this stage were playing some good football, albeit against very mediocre opponents and on 32 a great move involving Maxwell down the left found Ross Grant who after slipping the ball to Sutherland, continued his run and when the strikers effort was parried, he was at the back post to tap in number five. Forfar pulled a goal back on 33 when the United defence let Fyfe run unchallenged in to the box before shooting beyond Davidson in  to the far corner. United came back and on 38 made it 6-1 when Raeside converted another inch perfect Fraser corner. Number seven came on 42 when Ross Dorward played the pass of the night from just inside the Forfar half on to the forehead of McGuigan at the back post who nodded the ball back across the keeper  and in to the far corner.

With a 7-1 lead at half time United could be forgiven for taking their collective feet off the gas in the second half but were given a quick shock on 47 when Reid was given the freedom of Recreation park to skip through and net Albions second. This was to be the end of the visitors fight back as  a quick fire double on 52 and 57 minutes from Kris Maxwell made the score 9-2. With harder games on the horizon manager Hardie made changes during the second half and United saw out an impressive victory, which saw Saints through to a Quarter Final away to Dundee North End.

Premier League

Arniston Rangers 1 St Andrews United 3

St Andrews United travelled to the Lothians on Saturday to face Arniston Rangers in the Premier League, United knew that a point would make the result of the Penicuik v Fauldhouse game irrelevant.
Jim Hardie reverted to a more familiar line up than had defeated Arbroath SC on Wednesday night, with returns for Wallace Brown and Robbie Raeside, however, the absence of David Evans and niggling injuries to others meant options were limited so it was a reshuffled side that took the field. Raeside returned to partner Stephen Fraser in defence with Craig Wedderburn switching to right back, Brown played a defensive midfield role just in front of the back four, midfield was made up of McGuigan, Patrick, Grant and Muhsin, with Gary Sutherland on his own at the front.
United started much the brighter of the two sides and the players settled to the changed formation well, Saints were first to threaten and won a corner on 8 minutes from a Muhsin cross, unfortunately Opilka got to Patricks kick just before Sutherland. Arniston were struggling to get any sort of foot hold in the game and continued to pump balls forward, which were food and drink to the dominant Raeside. On 39 minutes however a foul by Brash on Smith led to the home sides first chance but United cleared the free kick well and repelled the pressure. On 42 Sutherland should have put St Andrews in front when he met a McGuigan cross, but Rachowski in the Rangers goal turned his shot away, and then 2 minutes later the big keeper was called in to action again when Sutherland got his head to a hopeful long ball but Rachowski was alert to the danger.
United started the second half as they had finished the first and Sutherland was once again unlucky on 47 minutes when he shot wide after good work by Muhsin. Wallace Brown was having an outstanding game in an unfamiliar role and was unlucky not to score when he stormed forward from the trenches but his shot drifted beyond the far post. On 63 minutes United took a deserved lead when Brash found Ross Grant with a superb ball, the young midfielder lobbedthe ball across on to Sutherlands head who made no mistake. St Andrews were playing some really good football at this stage and on 69 Ross Grant increased the lead when he lashed home a Muhsin cross to increase the lead. United have excelled in doing things the hard way this season and on 82 minutes let the home side back in to it when Borthwick finished a flowing move down the left. On 85 Sutherland secured the points and Premier League safety when he received the ball in the area and with his back to goal and under close attention from Rachowski he flicked the ball over the keeper and in to the net.
So Safety is finally secured by St Andrews and another season in the Premier League, but its not over yet and United see the Fife & Tayside Cup as a great chance of capping the season with some silverware, if United have beaten Forfar Albion on Wednesday night tomorrow sees them visit Dundee North End in the Quarter Finals, if not then the next game is at Tayport on Wednesday 26th May as they bring the curtain down on the league season.
St Andrews United : Davidson, Wedderburn, Raeside, Fraser, Brash, Brown, Muhsin, McGuigan, Patrick, Grant, Sutherland (Maxwell 89)

Fife & Tayside Cup

Arbroath SC 2 St Andrews United 2 United won 3-1 on penalties

Arbroath Sporting Club 2 St Andrews United 2 (United won 3-1 on Penalties)
St Andrews United finally played their first round tie in the Fife and Tayside Cup sponsored by 505050 Taxis away at Arbroath SC.
United made several changes with an eye on Saturdays game at Arniston in the Premier League, Conor Finlay, Craig Wedderburn, Sean Muhsin and Kris Maxwell all started in place of Wallace Brown, Robbie Raeside, Allan Ramsay and David Evans.
One of Uniteds Achilles heels this season has been conceding early goals, this game was no different when on 45 seconds a free kick was lofted in to the box and Owbridge side footed the ball beyond Paul Davidson. Arbroath were in no mood to surrender their advantage and constantly caused United trouble down both flanks and with Saints not firing on all cylinders, the home side could count themselves unlucky not to have increased the lead before half time.
Whatever, manager Jim Hardie said at half time appeared to go in one ear and out of the other, when in the 46th minute Arbroath were allowed to break down the right and as Davidson came out to challenge, the Arbroath player went down and the referee pointed to the spot. The penalty was converted to make it 2-0. Things could have got a lot worse for St Andrews when on 50 minutes the referee awarded Arbroath a second penalty for handball by Mark McGuigan, it seemed a harsh decision but justice was seen to be done as Davidson got down well to save the kick. This appeared to shock United in to action and on 55 minutes they managed to pull a goal back when Kris Maxwell received a ball from McGuigan, turned his man on the edge of the box and fired in to the bottom left hand corner. As the game entered the last quarter United restored parity when Gary Sutherland went up with a defender and the keeper to meet a McGuigan cross and the ball, Sutherland got to the ball first and it looped in to the back of the net. United were now on top but despite mounting pressure couldn’t quite find the third goal and the game went to penalties.
United have an excellent record in shootouts and once again, aul Davidson did his stuff keeping out 3 of the Sporting Club kicks with another blasted wide, United scored all three of their kicks that were needed through Ricky Patrick, Ross Grant and Sean Muhsin to take United through to the next round and a home game against Forfar Albion.
St Andrews United : Davidson, Finlay (Raeside 89), Brash, Fraser, Wedderburn, Patrick, Grant, Muhsin, McGuigan, Sutherland, Maxwell (Evans 85)

Premier League

St Andrews United 0 Penicuik 1

Last Saturday saw Penicuik Athletic visit Recreation Park for a vital Premier League clash, St Andrews United required just a point to secure Premier League status, while the visitors would also secure safety if they won the game and rivals Fauldhouse failed to beat already relegated Blairgowrie.
United made one change to the starting eleven with Kris Brash returning at left back in place of Ross Dorward who had failed to recover from injury in time. United welcomed back Craig Wedderburn back to the squad after his involvement in Raith Rovers hectic end to the season.
Both sides started nervously and neither failed to grasp an upper hand. The first chance of the game fell to the visitors on 5 minutes when referee McHendry punished Raeside for a push on Miller, however the free kick was hit softly in to Davidsons arms. Penicuik had a further chance on 9 minutes when Harvey evaded the United back line but he saw his shot saved by Davidsons outstretched boot. United were still struggling to show in the game as an attacking force, Montgomery was giving McGuigan and Brown real trouble on the United right which was stemming the flow to Sutherland and Evans, however, Evans did create something on 38 minutes, he evaded his marker and sent a cross in from the left, Sutherland went up with keeper Bald, the keeper spilt the ball but Sutherland couldn’t react quick enough, and the relieved keeper fell on to the ball. With both sides failing to control the game the sides reached the break level.
Penicuik scored what would turn out to be the winner on 47 minutes, the ball broke to Ross Montgomery on the left and he let fly from all of 30 yards out, his dipping effort flew over Davidson and in to the back of the net. United tried to force themselves back in to the game but the visitors were in no mood to surrender the vital points. United introduced Muhsin and Maxwell to try and turn the game, but United’s afternoon got worse when Stephen Fraser saw red for a second booking following a rash challenge.
On the final whistle it was the visitors celebrating as news filtered through of Fauldhouse’s draw at Blairgowrie, which saw the visitors safe, the result meanwhile makes things difficult for United, who have two away fixtures at Arniston and Tayport to come, however, one point would still see United safe.
Elsewhere, Tayports promotion chances suffered a blow at Arniston in a goalless draw, whilst Kinnoull did their chances no harm with a fine 3-2 victory at Forfar WE.
United : Davidson, Brown, Brash, Raeside, Fraser, Patrick, Ramsay, Grant (Muhsin 75), McGuigan, Evans(Maxwell 81), Sutherland

Premier League

Ballingry 3 St Andrews United 3

The rollercoaster that has been St Andrews United’s season was encapsulated in just one game at Ballingry’s Ore Park on Saturday afternoon after Saints took the lead, went 3-1 down and then came back to share the points at the death.
Manager Jim Hardie kept the same starting eleven that had defeated Armadale last week at home, so Sean Muhsin and Kris Maxwell remained on the bench as David Evans partnered Gary Sutherland up front and Ross Grant occupied central midfield with Allan Ramsay.
United started well playing up the slope and took the lead after just 5 minutes when Ballingry failed to clear the ball on the left, the ball was played across to Mark McGuigan on the right and the wide man advanced forward before letting fly across keeper Connolly and in to the far corner. Once again Evans was causing havoc for the opposition on the left and he was unlucky on 15 minutes when he cut in but saw his effort deflected for a corner. McGuigan was unlucky not to increase the United lead on 16 when he cut in from the right and hit a curling effort just wide. Ballingry were finding it difficult to contain McGuigan and on 32 minutes he was unlucky when after great work by Sutherland , the ball came out to McGuigan, who saw the keeper off his line, unfortunately his lob dint have enough height and the keeper scrambled it clear. Ballingry were far from anonymous and were unfortunate when Ally Campbell broke free but shot wide with the keeper to beat. United went in to the break in front but it was as precarious a lead as you could get.
Ballingry came out for the second half all guns blazing, and gave United notice when they were awarded a free kick on 49 minutes for a push on the edge of the box but Lawson’s kick went narrowly wide. However on 53 the full back did hit the back of the net from a free kick when Grant was penalised for a foul, the bald headed number 3 burying his effort beyond Paul Davidson. Ballingry pushed on as the United defence looked as shaky as it had for a while and it was no surprise that the hosts took the lead on 63. Wallace Brown who had suffered a torrid afternoon at the hands of Dair and Smart was penalised for tripping Graham in the area, Fraser converted the spot kick. Ballingry continued to press and went further in front on 66 when United were once again penalised on the edge of the box, Lawson once again stepped up and drove his free kick in to the net. United however were not dead and buried and showed last seasons spirit and commitment was still alive. A free kick from Ricky Patrick was parried by Connolly but only as far as Robbie Raeside who tapped home the rebound on 73. Manager Hardie brought on fresh legs on 75 when he replaced Dorward with Hegarty and it was Hegarty’s persistence on the left that led to the equaliser on 87, the sub marauded down the left and the ball broke in to the centre of the box Ricky Patrick helped it on to McGuigan who netted his second of the game and fourth in 3 games to secure a hard earned point for Saints.
Results elsewhere, saw Fauldhouse United defeated 3-0 at home by Carnoustie, Tayport beat Montrose Roselea to confirm their relegation to the North Division, Kinnoull triumphed 2-1 at Armadale which sees the Lothian club far from safe, and finally Champions elect Forfar WE saw there unbeaten record finally go at Arniston who won 3-2. The results mean that victory next Saturday at home to Penicuik will secure St Andrews United’s position in the Premier League next season.
St Andrews : Davidson, Brown, Dorward(Hegarty 75), Raeside, Fraser, Patrick, Ramsey, Grant (Muhsin 80), McGuigan, Evans(Maxwell 80), Sutherland

Premier League 

St Andrews United 3 Armadale Thistle 1

St Andrews United took a massive step towards Premier Division security on Saturday with a fine 3-1 victory over Armadale Thistle at Recreation Park, the victory allied with results elsewhere saw United reinforce their advantage over their rivals.
United boss Jim Hardie made two changes to the side that had earned a point at promotion chasing Kinnoull last weekend, Ross Dorward returned at left back and loanee Ross Grant came in to the centre of midfield with Kris Brash and Sean Muhsin dropping to the bench.
Both sides started well and traded blows before the first real chance fell to United after 8 minutes, when after good work on the left, David Evans moved into the box but his fierce shot was deflected for a corner. United took the lead on 10 minutes when a throw in by Wallace Brown found David Evans his effort was poorly cleared by the Thistle keeper, Wortley to Ricky Patrick on the back post who made no mistake from close range. Thistle came straight back and on 14 minutes a mistake by Allan Ramsay and Robbie Raeside led to Johnston firing over the bar when unmarked. On 24 minutes Carson headed over from 8 yards when he met a Connolly corner. Armadale did equalise on 35 when a corner broke to McCulloch who struck a shot from outside the box, Davidson had the effort covered but a deflection by Dorward took the ball beyond the keeper in to the net. United restored their lead on 45 minutes when the ball broke to Allan Ramsay fully 25 yards from goal, the experienced midfielder caught the ball on the volley and the ball arrowed in to the top corner, with the precision of Robin Hood, for Ramsay’s first goal for United.
United tried to stretch their lead in the second half, on 54 minutes Gary Sutherland was waved on by the somewhat erratic far side assistant referee but his effort struck the far post with nobody following up. Ross Grant was next to be unlucky on 57 minutes when his effort was turned wide after a good work by Dorward and Evans. However, the bad luck was short lived when from the resulting corner Mark McGuigan turned on a sixpence to flick home Patricks corner. On 67 Kris Brash came on for Ross Grant to provide fresh legs in midfield as United looked to tie up the game. Thistle tried a comeback but found the United side in resolute mood and in no mood to surrender one goal let alone two, with Raeside standing out in an excellent game for the United defence. Muhsin came on for Ramsay on 80 minutes and Maxwell replaced Evans on 86 as United saw out the remaining 10 minutes to secure 3 vital points.
Manager Hardie was delighted with not only the result but also the manner in which it was achieved and looked forward to safety being totally secure, Thistle boss Jim Henderson said the defeat was difficult to take but praised United for their performance.
St Andrews United : Davidson, Dorward, Brown, Raeside, Fraser, Patrick, McGuigan, Grant (Brash 67), Ramsay(Muhsin 80), Evans(Maxwell 86), Sutherland.

Premier League

Kinnoull 2 St Andrews United 2

St Andrews United once again came close to giving one of the Premier Divisions promotion candidates a bloody nose at Kinnoull’s Tulloch Park on Saturday, however, in the proverbial game of two halves United surrendered a 2-0 lead to end up sharing the points, although they had a chance to take all three right at the death.
United welcomed back the influential Mark McGuigan to midfield replacing Ross Grant and exciting forward Sean Muhsin replaced the injured Paul Farquharson and Kris Brash continued in place of Ross Dorward.
St Andrews were straight out of the blocks and causing Kinnoull problems right from the off, on 9 minutes great work down the right hand side by Sean Muhsin saw his cross evade the head of Sutherland by just millimetres. It was no surprise when United took the lead on 16 minutes, David Evans caused havoc on the left handside, escaped his marker and delivered a peach of a cross and Mark McGuigan rose to head back beyond Bruce in the home goal, and in to the back of the net. Kinnoull had hardly been in the game, but referee Duncan appeared to give them a lifeline when he harshly penalised Wallace Brown for holding Anton in the box, however, justice was delivered when Holden hit the bar with his kick, the fourth spot kick in four games that the Perth side had failed to convert. With 41 minutes on the clock United extended their lead when once again David Evans wreaked mayhem on the left before his shot was parried by the struggling Bruce but only as far as Raeside, the experienced defender knocked the ball in to the back of the net from 3 yards. On half time Kinnoull pulled a goal back when United failed to clear a free kick and leading scorer Chris Anton nodded the ball goalwards, Davidson managed to get his finger tips to it but could only touch it in to the net off the post.
Kinnoull were buoyed by their goal and were much improved after the break, much more like the team that had been on Forfar West End’s tail for most of the season, Holden started to cause problems for the United back line, however, on 51 Sutherland was unlucky when his header came back off the bar with Bruce beaten. Kinnoull made their improvement count on 66 when the ball broke to McManus 20 yards from goal and he placed his effort beyond Davidson to draw the scores level. On 70 minutes United replaced the influential David Evans with Kris Maxwell. United were denied a penalty when Sutherland was pushed in the box, referee Duncan turning a blind eye, on 85 he seemed to atone for his error when Allan Ramsey appeared to push Holden on the six yard line and he once again waved play on. Sean Muhsin had a chance right on full time to win the game but blazed over from 8 yards out and before the ball had hit the ground the referee brought an entertaining encounter to an end.
Both managers said that a draw was a fair result, however, United boss Jim Hardie was disappointed that his team couldn’t capitalise on a two goal lead. Elsewhere, Montrose Roselea were condemned to relegation as they drew 0-0 with Arniston. Blairgowrie succumbed to a last minute goal to lose 2-1 at home to Carnoustie. Fauldhouse United did well to hold Forfar to a 1-1 draw, however, its doubtful whether a point is enough to help them avoid the drop. Ballingry defeated Armadale 2-1 away from home to all but secure their place in the Premier Division for next season. Result of the day from St Andrews point of view was Penicuiks 4-0 defeat at Tayport, a result that was a hammer blow to the Lothian side’s survival chances.

Premier League

St Andrews United 0 Tayport 1

Last Saturday saw St Andrews United tackle neighbours Tayport for the first time in a league fixture at Recreation Park and it was the side from the banks of the Tay that took the points in a physical game.

Premier League

St Andrews United 1 Carnoustie Panmure 0

When St Andrews United visited back in November they turned in one of their worst performances of the season, however, it was a different matter when the two sides met in the return fixture, sponsored by AM Soccer Schools, at Recreation Park on Saturday.
Manager Jim Hardie kept faith with the same side that had remained unbeaten at visits to Forfar and Fauldhouse for only the second home fixture of the year. On the bench for the visitors was Graham Christie who played the Angus club when they won the Scottish Junior Cup in 2004.
St Andrews were quick out of the blocks and were unlucky not to take the lead after 3 mins when Mark McGuigan burst into the box on the right but as Carnoustie keeper Jamieson came out, the midfielder put his shot past the keeper but also past the post. Then on 4 minutes superb work by United skipper Ricky Patrick on the left led to a fine cross that Gary Sutherland just failed to reach at the far post. The visitors first threat on the home goal didn’t come until the 11th minute when Patrick was punished for what seemed an innocuous challenge, however, the resulting free kick taken by Euan Hall drifted out without anybody touching it. David Evans made a good run to the left on 14 minutes but when his cross found Sutherland, once again shot wide. On 17 minutes Ross Dorward made an excellent challenge on Cumming after good work by Gates on the Panmure left, when a goal looked sure. On 26 minutes an incident between Stephen Fraser and Carnousties’ Andy Reilly saw both players booked, however, the Carnoustie player was very lucky as he had appeared to aim a kick at the United defender. On the half hour a great flick on by Raeside saw Evans clear, unfortunately Jamieson was quick of his line to block the front mans effort. Ricky Patrick was next in to the book for a late challenge on Robertson, that provoked a poor response from the visiting players. Wallace Brown was next to face the officials wrath when he was shown the yellow card for a challenge on Beith. United continued to press for the first goal and ended the first half well on top.
United came out smartly once again and took the lead on 49 minutes when after fine work by David Evans on the left his shot was parried by Jamieson but Ross Grant was on it like a flash as he buried his effort in the back of the net, to score his first goal in United colours. United weren’t going to sit back and consolidate their advantage and once again a fine David Evans cross round the back was a fraction too far in front of Sutherland. A mistake at the back on 65 for United saw Reilly blaze a shot high and wide when it looked simpler to hit the target. On 85, United boss Hardie decided to bring on fresh legs and replaced goal hero Ross Grant with Craig Wedderburn then on 89 replaced the hard working Evans with former Carnoustie winger Sean Muhsin. Carnoustie failed to provide any further threat in the closing stages and United saw out time to earn a vital victory.
After the game Jim Hardie was very pleased with the victory and said that it was an excellent all round performance and commended the team for their work rate, however, it was still only one victory and he is taking one game at a time. Carnoustie boss Ian Gilzean was far from impressed with his own side and kept them in the dressing room for a good half hour longer than United, he said that he was bitterly disappointed with his side and condemned them for a lack of effort, conceding that the defeat and virtually confirmed the promotion of Forfar and Kinnoull.

Premier League

Fauldhouse United 0 St Andrews United 1

St Andrews United’s game at Fauldhouse finally beat the weather on Saturday after several attempts although the locals were at pains to point out the remnants of the snow on the stand side, this after the team were given a warm welcome by the locals surrounding the ground.
Manager Jim Hardie kept with the same team that had got a hard earned point a fortnight ago at league leaders Forfar, which meant Paul Farquharson remained on the bench, Ricky Patrick on the left and Ross Grant partnering Allan Ramsey in the middle of the park.
Both sides started well if a little nervously given the importance of the game, United had the first proper chance of the game on 7 minutes when a Ricky Patrick corner found Robbie Raeside unmarked on the back post but he put his effort wide. Only two minutes later, Allan Ramsey was unlucky when an effort from the edge of the area firmly struck the right hand post with the Fauldhouse keeper beaten. On 11 minutes Felvus was set free down the Fauldhouse left but saw his shot palmed wide by Davidson. Fauldhouse’s chances took a blow on 15 minutes when the big number nine Felvus, had to be replaced by Meechan. United almost took the lead on 16 minutes when Dorward, Patrick, and Gary Sutherland combined to set up a great chance for Ross Grant, but the young midfielder put his shot wide. United continued to press but couldn’t take advantage of what was rapidly becoming shooting practice, as time and again good work by midfield was undone by poor finishing, no more so than when on 43 minutes David Evans headed a yard wide when it looked easier to score from a Patrick cross.
The second half started in the same way the first had finished with United in the ascendancy, however, Fauldhouse started to come more in to the game and the United back four were starting to be given problems by Smith and McLenaghan. Davidson in the United goal was also called upon to make crucial saves as Fauldhouse sensed they could maybe get an important victory. On 63 minutes, United manager Jim Hardie rung the changes when he brought on Farquharson and Maxwell on for Ramsey and Evans. The substitution paid dividends on 73 when a superb ball from Raeside found Farquharson on the left, the quick winger took two steps and delivered a fine cross on to the head of Sutherland who bulleted his header in to the back of the net to give United a valuable lead. Fauldhouse were stunned and despite a couple of scares United held firm to record a vital victory in the battle against relegation.
The Fauldhouse staff were far from happy with the performance of the match official however, were magnanimous in defeat and said that United had caused them real problems all afternoon. United boss Jim Hardie was delighted with the victory however insisted that it was very much one game at a time, with tough games still to come both home and away.
Fellow strugglers Montrose climbed off the bottom of the league for the first time after they defeated early season promotion chasers Ballingry 3-1 at Ore Park, and with Tayport not playing due to cup commitments they have very much been dragged into the fight although they have games in hand.
United : Davidson, Brown, Dorward, Raeside, Fraser, McGuigan, Ramsey (Farquharson 63), Grant, Patrick, Evans (Maxwell 63), Sutherland

Friendly

St Andrews United 2 Ostersunds FK 1

Sunday afternoon saw Swedish Division 1 North side Ostersunds FK visit Recreation Park for a friendly game as part of their pre season training camp that has been based in St Andrews. The Swedes managed by former Hearts, Dunfermline and Blackburn midfielder Lee Makel had faced a very strong Rangers side at Murray Park on Wednesday, prior to taking on United and were defeated 6-1, with the much maligned Kyle Lafferty scoring a hat trick.
With a few absentees namely Gary Sutherland, Paul Farquharson, Robbie Raeside and Conor Finlay, United boss Jim Hardie made a few changes to the starting line up, with Craig Wedderburn returning from a spell back at Raith Rovers to partner Stephen Fraser at the heart of the defence, Kris Brash moved to a wide left position and Ricky Patrick partnered Ross Grant in the middle of the park with Mark McGuigan on the left leaving Kris Maxwell and Sean Muhsin in the front line.
In front of a very disappointing crowd for a game that was free admission, United started well and caused their full time opponents many problems, Mark McGuigan was given more room than normal and excelled with many runs and fine balls. The Swedes were playing a quite high defensive line and Stephen Fraser played two or three excellent long balls in to the channel for Kris Brash to run on to. On 19 minutes Wallace Brown and McGuigan combined well on the right to feed Sean Muhsin and as the diminutive front man ran on he hit unstoppable shot past the Ostersunds goalkeeper. United deservedly increased the lead on 25 minutes when Craig Wedderburn this time combined with McGuigan, the tall midfielders effort was parried by the keeper, but only up on to the head of skipper Ricky Patrick who nodded his sides second in to the net. Kris Maxwell was unlucky not to add to United’s tally when he saw an effort blocked on 35 as United continued to play the better football of the first half and right on half time Muhsin was given the chance to make it three when the referee adjudged Wedderburn to have been held in the box but he saw his poor spot kick saved.
The second half was much the same with United holding firm against a slightly more determined Ostersunds side, both managers made several changes during the half, most noticeable for United was the appearance of Raith Rovers u19 midfielder Jamie Mackie, continuing the family connection with United. Ostersunds pulled a goal back on 87 minutes via ricochets of post and bar but it was nothing more than a consolation goal as St Andrews saw out the ninety minutes to complete a fine performance.
Manager Hardie was pleased with the performance and thought that it was a good workout for his side after the previous days postponement. Ostersunds manager Lee Makel was critical of his own side and when spoken to after the game said that some of his side would struggle with the rigours of their forthcoming season but he had one or two loan signings from both the Scottish and English leagues to come that would bring improvement to his young squad. He added that he thought the game was more beneficial to his team than the game against Rangers as the SPL side had really not got involved with the physical side preferring to pass the ball around his side, but United were prepared to get stuck in and at times his side were found wanting.

Premier League

Forfar WE 0 St Andrews United 0

St Andrews United finally got back to league action on Saturday with an away Premier League clash against second placed Forfar West End. When Forfar visited United’s Recreation Park before Christmas, they came up against a very determined United side and left St Andrews with a lucky point after an excellent United performance. The return visit to Angus was looked on with trepidation by some supporters, however, United produced possibly the performance of the season to return to Fife with a 0-0 draw and a vital point in their battle against relegation.

United manager Jim Hardie made several changes to the side, with Wallace Brown and Ross Dorward as the full backs, with Stephen Fraser and Robbie Raeside in the middle of a back four. The midfield berths were taken up by Mark McGuigan, debut making Ross Grant, Alan Ramsey and Ricky Patrick, with David Evans partnering Gary Sutherland in the front line.

Both sides started the game brightly but a mistake by Robbie Raeside in the 2nd minute led to the ball breaking to McConnachie however a good tackle by Wallace Brown saw the ball go out for a throw in, then with the ball fed out to the right a cross by Pirie was touched home by McKenzie, however the linesman had his flag raised for offside. United were awarded a free kick after three minutes when Gibb fouled Gary Sutherland, not for the last time, the kick by Dorward found David Evans but before the diminuitive striker could get his shot away the ball was cleared for a corner. Wallace Brown was booked on 8 minutes for a rash challenge in the centre of the park and from the resultant free kick Duell hit the post with his header. As the half went on, Brown and McGuigan were proving very effective on the right and provided United with a constant threat to the Forfar goal and on another day they could have luckier in front of goal. Duell was getting little joy out of Raeside, however he did break free on 28 he shot from well outside of the area weakly in to Paul Davidson’s arms. On 34 Duell’s frustrations appeared to boil over as he was booked for a blatent elbow on Raeside. The referee continued to exercise his authority when he booked Fraser for a challenge when he clearly got the ball but then on 43 failed to book Gibb for yet another foul on Sutherland. The half time whistle came with United on top and playing well, taking the game to their hosts, a much better performance than the two recent friendly fixtures. The second half was just as good as the first from a United point of view as stoic defending and incisive counter attacks continued to cause Forfar problems. Ricky Patrick was booked on 52 for another nothing challenge but Gibb remained to handle Sutherland roughly without comment from the officials. A mistake by the Forfar central defender led to McGuigan breaking free on the right before squaring the ball for Grant but he fired his effort straight at the keeper. An excellent tackle by Ross Dorward on Bryan Duell on 63 thwarted the big striker after a mistake by David Evans had given the ball away. On 68 Grant of St Andrews and McKenzie of Forfar were booked after an altercation in the centre circle. On 75 the hard working Alan Ramsey was replaced by Paul Farquharson and almost immediately he made a difference when a cross come shot was tipped over by the struggling Forfar keeper. Forfar weren’t finished and after a break down the right Duell went up with Fraser and McGuigan but his header hit the bar after a deflection. Sean Muhsin replaced David Evans on 81 minutes for St Andrews and on 85 Duell was replaced by Simpson. On 87 Ross Dorward was booked for a foul on McKenzie and to complete the set for the referee he eventually booked the rugged Gibb for a trip on Ross Grant on the edge of the area. United held firm through 5 minutes of injury time to record an excellent result.

Yesterdays results saw Montrose Roselea record their second win of the season with a 4-1 defeat of Fauldhouse United, while Carnoustie and Armadale drew 2-2. The defeat for Fauldhouse sees United climb a place in the Premier Division above the Lothian side, and Saturdays fixtures sees St Andrews travel to Fauldhouse, a game that is definitely a real 6 pointer.

St Andrews : Davidson, Brown, Raeside, Fraser, Dorward, McGuigan, Grant, Ramsey (Farquharson 75), Patrick, Evans (Muhsin 81), Sutherland

Friendly Match

St Andrews United 1 Linlithgow Rose 3

at Loch Leven Campus, Kinross

Only a handful of Junior games in the East Region survived the freezing temperatures of Friday night, unfortunately St Andrews United’s trip to Kinnoull wasn’t one of them, no real surprise when you think that the St Johnstone v Rangers SPL game was postponed not two miles away and they had the luxury of under soil heating. 

Having been caught out before by a late postponement, United had a contingency plan and had arranged to play Superleague side Linlithgow Rose on the all weather surface at Loch Leven Campus, Kinross. The new complex at Kinross is impressive to say the least, along with the state of the art Astroturf which doubles up as two hockey pitches, there are three rugby pitches, three football pitches and two more hockey pitches all on grass and three separate gyms. In addition to the sporting facilities Kinross High Scholl, Kinross Museum and Library are also housed within the building, a definite example of what can be done with a bit of thought and integration, maybe Fife Council should take note.

Back to the game and United started with Stephen Fraser partnering Robbie Raeside at the back and Kris Brash and Conor Finlay the full backs. Loan signing Ross Grant played just in front of the defence but behind a midfield of Muhsin, McGuigan, Ramsey and Patrick, leaving Gary Sutherland as the lone striker, Paul Davidson was in goal.

Both sides started brightly and certainly didn’t hold back in the challenges and United were first to threaten as excellent work by Grant found Gary Sutherland on the edge of the area, in turning he beat the defender but his shot went agonisingly wide, then on 12 minutes a long ball from Brash again found Sutherland on the left, however, as good as his cross was the support was lacking and the ball went out of play. United took the lead on 15 minutes when after an excellent run by Conor Finlay saw the ball find Mark McGuigan on the edge of the Rose area and his shot was deflected over the keeper by a Rose defender. Ricky Patrick was suffering with a lower back injury courtesy of a strong challenge and was replaced by Paul Farquharson, Rose started to come in to the game and after 23 minutes a good move saw the ball move down the left and an excellent cross, but the ball was flicked wide of the far post by Coyne. On 27 Linlithgow took the lead after a goal mouth scramble saw the ball poked beyond Paul Davidson after desperate United defending, they then went in to the lead on 29 when Sean Muhsin was harshly adjudged to have fouled the Rose winger in the box and Coyne converted the spot kick. With 32 on the clock tempers became frayed and the referee ordered the substitution of Kris Brash after a confrontation, the “sin binning” was increased following dissent. Stephen Hegarty replaced Brash at left back this all came after United almost pulled a goal back when Raeside headed over from a Muhsin corner. However the score remained 3-1 at half time.
Manager Hardie made a change at half time with Kris Maxwell coming on for Conor Finlay to partner Sutherland and McGuigan moved to right back. With United now playing a more familiar system they began to hold there own and on 50 a good run from Sean Muhsin culminated with his effort going wide but only just. Paul Farquharson was now having a bigger influence and on 67 he beat the full back brilliantly but his cross hit the side netting through a crowd of players, the referee deciding it was off a United boot. Kris Maxwell was beginning to cause a few problems and a good ball from him found Muhsin who won a corner. On 81 a flick by Gary Sutherland straight from the Cristiano Ronaldo book of tricks found Farquharson who won another corner, then on 87 Ramsey was fouled in the area, however, the officials, who were in close attendance deemed the offence was outside and the free kick was cleared.

The final scoreline flattered Linlithgow a little bit as United were the better side for most of the game, the only difference between the sides was the finishing, on another day the result could have been the opposite way round.

United: Davidson, Brash (Hegarty 32), Finlay (Maxwell 46), Raeside (Brash 80), Fraser, Grant, Muhsin, McGuigan (Sutherland 85), Ramsey, Patrick (Farquharson 20), Sutherland (Evans 75)

Practice Match

Blues 4 Whites 5

Once again this week St Andrews United fell foul off the weather when Saturdays Premier League fixture at Perth’s Kinnoull was postponed due to a frozen pitch, United had allowed Kinnoull to call a late inspection of the Tulloch Park surface, however, the call still came that the park was unfit. The extra time given meant that it was impossible to arrange a friendly game on United’s Recreation Park which ironically was perfectly playable, despite many phone calls by manager Jim Hardie.

The need for a semi competitive run out for the squad saw the coaching staff arrange a Blues v Whites training game using the full United squad. Once the two sides had overcome the pre game banter about who was the better side etc the game got underway and the Blues took an early lead through David Evans when he converted a Sean Muhsin cross, putting the ball beyond Ronnie Traynor in the Whites goal. Gary Sutherland drew the side level from the penalty spot after he was hauled down by Wallace Brown. Muhsin then restored the Blues lead when he broke free from the White defence to slot past an annoyed Traynor. Once again Sutherland restored parity with an excellent turn and finish as the game, if not the toughest run out, started to produce some moments of skill. Blues then took a strangle hold on the game just before half time, as first new boy Ross Grant scored after good work by Evans and Muhsin and then Muhsin himself got his second and the Blues fourth after more good work from Evans and this time Grant.

For the second half manager Hardie transferred Paul Farquharson to Blues; however Whites stormed back this time up the hill. Kris Maxwell came in to the game in the second half and pulled a goal back for Whites when he hit a shot across Paul Davidson in to the far corner. None other than Gary Sutherland equalised with another cross shot to complete his hat trick after good work from the impressive Conor Finlay. The winning goal came thanks to a somewhat dubious penalty given by the referee Ken Morris who must have had binoculars to see the alleged hand ball in the Blue defence that saw Sutherland complete a superb comeback by Whites, when he converted the spot kick. OK it was only a practice match and shouldn’t be taken seriously however it showed that this team can play good football; they just need the confidence and belief that it is possible.

Blues: Davidson, Malone, Fraser, Brown, Brash, Grant, McGuigan, Muhsin, Evans, Farquharson (HT)

Whites: Traynor, Dorward, Hegarty, Raeside, Finlay, Farquharson (Until HT), Patrick, Ramsey, Maxwell, Sutherland

Friendly

St Andrews United 1 Kirkcaldy YM 4

Premier League

St Andrews United 1 Montrose Roselea 3

St Andrews United saw their recent improvement come crashing to a halt against a physical but effective Montrose Roselea at Recreation Park on Saturday. Montrose recorded their first win of the season against a United side that huffed and puffed but never really showed any sign of the form shown before Christmas. The visitors were helped by a poor performance from the referee who with his assessor in the crowd, infuriated the home bench and supporters with many bizarre decisions, more of those later.
Manager Jim Hardie made one change to the team beaten against Bathgate, Craig Wedderburn made his full debut replacing Wallace Brown, and took up a central defensive berth with Stephen Fraser switching to left back. There was no place in the Montrose side for new signing Lee Hood as Calum Watson returned from injury.
United started brightly and on 8 minutes a superb through ball from Wedderburn set Paul Farquharson free on the left, the winger cut in to the box but fired in to the side netting when a cut back to Gary Sutherland looked the easier option. With 11 on the clock a strike from Roselea’s Colin Kennedy was well saved by Paul Davidson and as the sides traded metaphoric punches Mark McGuigan had a fierce effort turned wide by Massie in the Montrose goal. Ricky Patrick was booked after 14 minutes for a soft challenge in midfield but the resultant free kick was cleared by Raeside to Maxwell who set McGuigan free with a delightful ball through the legs of Dougie Craig but Roselea managed to shepherd the ball out for a goal kick. Roselea took the lead on 17 when after a good cross from the right Sean Mustard fired through a crowded area and past Davidson. The visitors increased their lead on 23, when United failed to clear a Montrose attack and the ball broke to Watson who made no mistake. United tried to regain a foothold in a game that was rapidly going away from them and both Sutherland and Wedderburn were unlucky with efforts before Allan Ramsey saw a drive tipped over by Massie. Roselea continued to be dangerous on the break but the score remained 2-0 at half time.
An injury to Kris Maxwell saw Davie Evans replace him at half time. Mark McGuigan was the subject of a tackle from behind on 47 minutes, the defender involved was off the ground and above the ball but received just a talking to from the referee, then on 48, Ricky Patrick was the subject of another hard tackle that went unpunished by the official. A Stephen Fraser through ball found Gary Sutherland clean through, however, there was slightly too much pace on it and the ball ran through to the keeper. On 63 minutes it was the turn of Evans to be on the receiving end and once again the referee refused to book the offender. Sean Muhsin replaced the tiring McGuigan on 64 and on 65 the referee made the most bizarre decision of the afternoon when awarding United a free kick for a pull back on Evans that was at least a yard inside the box. As the clock passed 70 minutes, Watson looked at least 2 yards offside when he received a through ball but was allowed to continue and slotted home the visitors third. United did manage to pull a goal back on 81 when Evans fired home from close range but Roselea managed to hold out to double there points tally for the season.
Feelings were running high after the game amongst the United players who felt that they received very little protection from the referee, however, regardless of his display, the performance from the players just wasn’t good enough. Manager Jim Hardie said that his pre match comments had proved correct and the enforced break had affected the team badly and few players had come out of the game with any credit. The result sees United firmly entrenched at the wrong end of the table, matters weren’t helped by Blairgowrie’s last minute winner against Carnoustie.
St Andrews United: Davidson, Fallon, Fraser, Raeside, Wedderburn, McGuigan (Muhsin 64), Ramsey, Patrick, Farquharson, Sutherland, Maxwell (Evans 46)

Fife & Lothians Cup

St Andrews United 1 Bathgate Thistle 3

For St Andrews United’s final fixture of the year, the weather gods decided to throw everything they had in their locker at Recreation Park on Saturday. The reason the pitch survived the freezing temperatures is as much down to the work carried out behind the scenes as anything else, but the blizzard that hit just before kick off nearly threw a spanner in the works. The Referee was very doubtful as the snow fell and began to obscure the markings,some of the supporters resembling snowmen, however the orange balls were removed from the museum and the game began, what followed was an excellent advert for the junior game and proved that the decision to kick off was the right one. United made one change to the starting line up with the versatile Wallace Brown coming in at left back for Kris Brash, there was a place on the bench for Craig Wedderburn the recent loan signing from Raith Rovers. Bathgate included Scottish Junior International Jim Lister in their line up, looking to add to his 16 goals in all competitions. United have a habit of conceding early goals and they tried to do the same again when Robbie Raeside pulled down Lister in the box after only 1 minute, however, the hitman saw his spot kick brilliantly saved by Paul Davidson. On 10 minutes a through ball from Ricky Patrick saw Gary Sutherland almost break free, however the attentions of two Thistle defenders forced the ball away. Bathgate however took the lead with 13 minutes on the clock when Lister ran on to a through ball from Reilly and with Davidson advancing from his line slotted the ball in to the back of the net. The game was held up to allow the lines to be swept clear, Kris Maxwell was booked on 18 for a late tackle on Gupwell, however the nearside linesman failed to see the swinging arm from the Thistle man. On 23 minutes Paul Farquharson set Mark McGuigan free on the right however his cross was cleared by the visitors defence, on 26 Robbie Raeside surged forward but his shot skidded through to keeper Carlin. A Bathgate throw in on the right found Lurinsky in the box who went down under the challenge of Alan Ramsey, the referee had little hesitation in pointing to the spot and this time Lurinsky converted to put the visitors two in front after 28 minutes. Thistle almost made it three a minute later when a free kick from the influential Lurinsky found McPhee unmarked six yards out but his header glanced off the corner of post and bar and out for a goal kick. On 32 minutes United were given a potential lifeline when Stuart Easton handled Farquharsons cross, however, Fallon’s resulting spot kick was saved by Carlin, United reduced the arrears on 40 when Kris Maxwell met a teasing through ball from Steven Fallon before striking the ball across Carlin and in to the far corner. United were by now the better side and almost drew level on half time when Stephen Fraser’s excellent pass found Gary Sutherland, his shot was parried to Maxwell but he unluckily shot wide. United started the second half in a similar fashion to the way they ended the first, with 46 on the clock, Maxwell was set free down the right but his excellent ball across was hit straight at the keeper by McGuigan. Gupwell was eventually booked on 51 when he pulled down Sutherland. Bathgate were dishing out some pretty sturdy tackles to the home side and Lister was lucky to escape a booking when he clattered Wallace Brown twice in two minutes, Gupwell was also lucky not to receive his second caution on 55 when he hauled Sutherland down once more. On 58 a tussle between Ramsey and Bathgate’s McColligan saw both players on the ground in front of the linesman who failed to see the visiting player push his head in to Ramsey’s face, the incident saw Gary Fallon of Bathgate push Ramsey towards the gravel track, however, the decision of the referee on advice from his linesman was a booking for all three players. St Andrews continued to press and Bathgate continued to repel the attacks using all their Superleague guile. A foul by Raeside on Lister resulted in a free kick in a dangerous position in the middle of the park but Easton’s kick was wasted and it drifted out of play. On 66 Lister finally beat the United offside trap but hit his cross in to the waiting arms of Davidson. Once again on 70 Gary Sutherland was fouled by Easton on the halfway line and as the free kick was taken and fed out to Farquharson on the left he was fouled by Thistle captain Wilson, Thistle struggled to clear Fraser’s kick but eventually the ball went behind for a goal kick. United continued to press, however Thistle remained firm. On 85 United replaced Ramsey and McGuigan with Wedderburn and Finlay. On 87 the somewhat lucky Gupwell eventually picked up his second booking for a block on Finlay and was sent off. The resulting free kick was cleared by Thistle to Lister who took the ball up the left hand side, waited for the flying substitute McLaren before crossing and McLaren netted to give Bathgate the game 3-1, a scoreline that flattered the visitors but still see’s United exit another cup competition before Christmas. After the game the overall opinion within the United squad was one of disappointment at another unlucky defeat however it is worth remembering that Bathgate are a Superleague side and a level above that of St Andrews. Manager Hardie was disappointed that his side conceded another early goal but felt that after that, his side were the better team. Speaking to referee Steve Crichton after the game regarding him proceeding when a lot of referee’s would have maybe taken an easier option, he said that both sides had played their part in an excellent game of football on a tricky surface.

St Andrews United : Davidson, Fallon, Brown W, Raeside, Fraser, Patrick, Ramsey (Wedderburn 85), McGuigan (Finlay 85), Farquharson, Sutherland, Maxwell

Premier League

St Andrews United 3 Forfar WE 3

 It goes to show how much St Andrews United have improved over recent weeks when they see a 3-3 draw against pace setters Forfar West End as 2 points dropped rather than 1 point gained, but that was the feeling amongst a disappointed United team post match on Saturday. St Andrews started the game with only one change to the side that had beaten Blairgowrie the week before, with hat trick hero Kris Maxwell replacing the injured David Evans. Ross Dorward returned from holiday and Stephen Hegarty from illness to take up their place amongst the substitutes. Both teams started brightly on a very heavy Recreation Park pitch but as was the case last week United conceded an early goal to their visitors on 4 minutes, Grant Lawson marauded down the left and delivered a pin point cross to an unmarked Bryan Duell who buried his header beyond Paul Davidson and in to the back of the net. The early strike had stunned Saints and it took them a few minutes to regain their composure, however a through ball from Raeside almost set Sutherland clear but Forfar conceded a throw in, as the ball was returned to play Ricky Patrick was the subject of a hefty challenge by Sime which saw the referee give a free kick but the defender escape a caution. The free kick was taken by Fallon and flicked on by Sutherland to Farquharson on the left whose cross was turned in by Patrick at the near post with 11 minutes gone. United pushed on and were by now the better team, McKenzie handled the ball right on the edge of the area as he tried to break clear, despite protestations by both sides, Forfar debating whether it was handball at all and United about whether it was a penalty, referee Gill awarded a free kick, and with sniper like accuracy Steven Fallon slammed the kick home passed a forlorn Vanderdeyl in the Forfar goal on 26. After 31 minutes Kris Maxwell, who had received some harsh treatment from the West End back line, was booked for an attempted trip, a decision which enraged the home support, who deemed the referee to be consistently inconsistent. On 38 minutes Duell was caught offside when almost clear, another decision that enraged the supporters, this time the visitors, who directed their tirade at the linesman. On 43 minutes Paul Farquharson was booked for a foul on Lawson when the winger would have had a clear run down the left. On the stroke of half time Kris Maxwell won a corner off the rugged but effective Gibb but as Forfar attempted to clear the ball referee Gill blew for half time. The second half started much like the first but this time United had the early ascendancy, on 46 Sutherland was unlucky not to get on the end of McGuigans fierce cross after the midfielder had made a great run down the right flank, United continued to press and Kris Maxwell won a corner but Farquharsons kick failed to beat the first defender and was cleared. With 51 minutes on the clock Patrick made a brilliant last ditch tackle on the edge of the area as Duell was about to pull the trigger. On 55 minutes a barnstorming run by Kris Brash ended with the diminutive full back hitting a dipping effort just over the bar. Alan Ramsey made a rare error on 58 when he mislaid a pass to the onrushing Duell but Paul Davidson was off the mark in a Usain Bolt like manner to make a tackle with his feet a good 10 yards outside his area. Forfar were now coming back in to the game and on 71 were awarded a free kick 20 yards out for a foul on Pirie, Duell struck the kick well, Davidson failed to hold on to it and Lawson was first to the rebound to net and level the scores. The scores were level for just 5 minutes, a free kick for yet another foul on the battered and bruised Maxwell, broke to Fallon whose shot was deflected for a corner, Forfar cleared the first corner for another one, but this time Farquharsons superb cross saw Robbie Raeside rise like a salmon unmarked to head the home side back in front on 76. Forfar were far from finished and pressed for a second equaliser, on 81 minutes the visitors were awarded a generous free kick when Patrick and McKenzie came together in the centre of the park, as the resulting kick was played in to the box Raeside was penalised for handball under pressure from Duell. The big number nine stepped up and converted the penalty to Davidson’s right side. Forfar now smelt blood however the United rearguard was as solid as granite as the kept their visitors out to gain a vital point. After the game winger Paul Farquharson said that it was disappointing that they hadn’t been able to hang on for all three points but a draw against Forfar was still a good result. Jim Hardie was in agreement with his players and felt that Forfar were the happier side with a point overall and singled out Raeside, Fraser and Fallon as having excellent games.

St Andrews: Davidson, Brash, Fallon, Raeside, Fraser, McGuigan, Patrick, Ramsey, Farquharson (Finlay 89), Sutherland, Maxwell (Muhsin 83) Subs not used: Amos, Hegarty, Dorward, Brown,

Premier League

St Andrews United 5 Blairgowrie 2

United hit the goal trail in their vital Premier League clash with fellow strugglers Blairgowrie at the Rec on Saturday. A superb second half hat trick in 9 minutes from Kris Maxwell, who’s only previous goal this season had been in the away trip to Blairgowrie, overshadowed the debut of the experienced defender Robbie Raeside and helped Saints to a 5-2 victory. As well as Raeside coming in at the centre of defence, Paul Davidson replaced Liam Amos and Stephen Fraser returned to the starting line up after his ankle injury which meant that Steven Fallon could return to the right back berth. United were also able to welcome back Paul Farquharson to the left side and Mark McGuigan to the right meaning David Evans could return to his front role, probably United’s strongest line up in weeks.
It didn’t start too auspiciously for St Andrews when in the first minute Blairgowrie broke down the right and the resulting cross was buried by Menzies. On 8 minutes Evans was harshly adjudged offside when through on goal however United were showing signs of better things to come. After 10 minutes a superb ball from Raeside was flicked on by Sutherland to Paul Farquharson who struck his shot wide. With United pressing the visitors were indebted to their captain Mark Brash who was repelling everything thrown in his direction. With 21 minutes on the clock a throw in by McGuigan broke to Sutherland whose initial shot was parried by O’Brien but only back to Sutherland who levelled the scores. Parity remained for just six minutes as Blairgowrie pressed forward and a cross from the left was turned in to his own net by Kris Brash under pressure from the impressive Menzies. On 31, Blairgowrie’s Neave was lucky to escape a booking from the referee after going down easily in the box under the challenge of Davidson, the referee correctly giving a goal kick. The midfield was becoming a bit of a battleground with Alan Ramsey often coming out of the trenches with the ball. Just before half time United were forced in to a substitution with Maxwell replacing Evans who was suffering with a sore hamstring.
The second half started much like the first, with the ingenuity coming from the home side but the visitors holding firm, however, on 54 minutes United levelled the scores when Kris Maxwell’s effort was blocked by O Brien, the ball broke to Farquharson who celebrated his return to the side with a great finish from a narrow angle. By now United were well on top with Blairgowrie’s discipline coming in to question, Kris Brash found himself in unfamiliar territory when he beat the offside trap to meet a McGuigan cross, unfortunately the full back seemed to panic and O’Brien saved easily. Raeside, helped by the equally impressive Fraser, was marshalling the home defence superbly and Blairgowrie were looking devoured of ideas, in a brief moment of success for the visitors, a free kick by Mark Brash was headed over by Cruikshank after the striker found himself unmarked on the edge of the six yard box. On 71 minutes United finally hit the front when a great ball from skipper Ricky Patrick found Gary Sutherland on the left who crossed for the waiting Maxwell at the far post, the young hit man finished with aplomb for only his second goal of the season. Maxwell was now like a starving lion stalking his prey and on 76 he put the game beyond the visitors reach when he buried a cross from Muhsin, on for the tired out Farquharson, in the back of the net. Maxwell completed his superb hat trick on 80 minutes when he converted yet another Sutherland cross to make it five. Alan Ramsey, flattened in a robust but fair challenge by Blairgowrie’s best player Brash was replaced by Conor Finlay on 86 , who was promptly tripped making his first run which saw Neave finally getting the booking he had deserved in the first half. Blairgowrie replaced Axworthy with player manager Ross Graham who had become exasperated with his teams second half performance against the much improved Saints.
After the game full back Steven Fallon commented that whilst it was unfair to blame the youngsters who have filled in during United’s recent injury crisis, today’s improved defensive performance was down to better communication, without doubt due to the experience of the impressive Raeside. Manager Jim Hardie admitted to being nervous when his side were behind however felt that they were the better side throughout, he agreed that new signing Raeside had brought the defence together ably assisted by the returning Fraser. He added that the return of McGuigan and Fallon was also a help, finally adding that Maxwell and Muhsin’s performance after coming off the bench was exactly what any manager would wish for.

St Andrews: Davidson, Fallon, Brash, Raeside, Fraser, Ramsey (Finlay 86), Patrick, McGuigan, Farquharson (Muhsin 70), Evans (Maxwell 43), Sutherland. Subs not used Amos, Malone, and Brown

Premier League

Penicuik Ath 3 St Andrews United 1

On a weekend when the country resembled a sponge and Noah and his Ark would have done a roaring trade, St Andrews United travelled through to the Lothians to face Penicuik Athletic in a vital Premier League tie. Both sides had suffered an indifferent start to the season and found themselves at the wrong end of the table.

The referee, who had declared the pitch playable at an early morning inspection was looking a worried man as the rain began to fall heavily in the run up to kick off, however the game got underway. United made three changes from the side beaten at Carnoustie the previous week, Stephen Hegarty was fit to return and replaced Steven Fallon who was working, Kris Brash replaced Ross Dorward and Kris Maxwell replaced Mark McGuigan, who was absent due to a family bereavement, and joined the frontline with David Evans taking up a wide role.

In a rumbustuos start, both teams began at a quick pace on the sodden surface and after only 2 minutes Penicuik took the lead when what seemed an innocuous through ball was missed by the United defence and Cole slipped the ball under the advancing Amos. United were only behind for 6 minutes, as they pressed forward, Ricky Patrick chased the ball to the by-line, whipped a cross in that was only palmed up by the home keeper dropping to David Evans on the back post who made no mistake. Penicuik came back and the game was still only 16 minutes old when they retook the lead. A corner was cleared off the line by Conor Finlay and played out for a second corner, this time Hegarty under pressure from his opposite number only managed to power his header into his own net. After 25 minutes Athletic extended there advantage when, from another corner, an unmarked Kelly directed his header beyond Amos to make it 3-1. United pressed to get back in to the game and when Gary Sutherland was clean through on goal on 43 minutes he was pulled back by Matthew Lynch , the referee deemed that he was the last defender and the Penicuik player was ordered off.
United started the second half with manager Jim Hardies’ wise words ringing in their ears and started to show that they could play good football, alas Penicuik were determined to keep their advantage and kept United to shooting from outside of the penalty area for the majority of the time. United continued to press and were on top for most of the second half but saw there attempts repelled by the resolute home defence marshalled well by Meikle. As the game petered out and United ran out of ideas, Stephen Fraser continued his rehabilitation and replaced Alan Ramsey, but it made no difference as the Lothian side took the points.
St Andrews United: Amos, Finlay, Brash, Hegarty, Brown, Evans, Ramsey (Fraser 80), Patrick, Muhsin, Sutherland, Maxwell, Subs not used : Davidson, Dorward, Farquharson, Malone

Premier League

Carnoustie Panmure 3 St Andrews United 0

In direct contrast to last week’s feeling of injustice, Saints’ abysmal second half performance against their fellow “gowfers” not only gave a dominant Carnoustie side three easy points but it also plunged Saints deep into relegation territory. Saints are certainly finding goals hard to come by while individual errors at the back, at this level, are being severely punished. However, praise must go to 19 year old ‘keeper, Liam Amos for an outstanding display which was unfortunately marred by one blemish from which Carnoustie scored their third goal. Saints, resplendent in their new blue away strips kicked off and spurned a great chance in five minutes when Evans dallied too long with only the keeper to beat. Panmure, looking dangerous on the break, took the lead in 15 minutes when Saints’ defence failed to cut out McIlreavy’s low cross which gave Riley the easiest of tap-ins. Saints hit back and McGuigan’s stinging 20 yarder was well saved by Panmure keeper Jamieson. Following two fine Amos saves in quick succession after 22 minutes, Saints dominated and hemmed-in Carnoustie in their own half. A Wallace Brown header from Patrick’s corner was cleared off the line and Sutherland’s fine turn and shot in 28 minutes hit the base of the post. From McGuigan’s fine run and cross, Patrick’s shot was just wide, Muhsin’s 12 yard effort was well saved and a super mazy Evans run which opened up the defence was spoilt by a poor cross. Half time hopes of a second half breakthrough were certainly optimistic particularly with the elements being in Saints’ favour. Carnoustie, however, had other ideas as they upped the ante and put Saints under intense pressure. Good saves, great saves by Amos denied the home team but he was left powerless in 58 minutes when his defence got into a fankle which left McIlreavy free to run through and score with ease. Saints first opportunity of this half to reduce the leeway came in 66 minutes when McGuigan’s fine run and cut-back found Patrick but in correlation with Saints’ general display, he blazed the ball over from 18 yards. Now in the comfort zone, Carnoustie went further ahead in 75 minutes when Riley gleefully accepted the gift of an Amos total mis-kick to stroke the ball home from 15 yards and finish-off any possibility of an unlikely Saints’ comeback. Only the sight of Fraser entering the fray, albeit for the last three minutes, after such a lengthy layoff cheered up the suffering Saints’ support!

United: Amos; Finlay, W Brown (Fraser 87), Fallon, Dorward (Brash 57); Ramsay, Patrick, McGuigan; Muhsin, Evans (Maxwell 67), Sutherland. Subs (not used) Davidson, Farquharson, Hegarty

Emirates Scottish Junior Cup Replay

Dundonald Bluebell 1 St Andrews United 0

Out of luck and out of this year’s Scottish Cup after this second round replay was decided by a most extraordinary goal which left Saints’ keeper Davidson, so often his side’s saviour, wishing the gluepot of a pitch would open up and suck him under. Clearly the better team, Saints passed over numerous chances including two proverbial “sitters” but at the end of the day, it’s goals that count and so it’s Dundonald who progress to round three.
Saints rearguard was bolstered by the return of Fallon and ace striker Sutherland was on from the start.
Saints, playing up the slope, settled immediately displaying a sense of urgency and commitment to put their hosts to the sword. As early as the 4th minute, an excellent run by Muhsin allowed Brash to deliver an inviting cross to the far post but Sutherland’s header was just wide. With the ball and pitch greasy, Saints policy of shooting on sight certainly kept Bluebell keeper Connor, with much to do. Covering himself with glaur and glory he dived this way and that to deny well hit and well placed shots from Maxwell, Patrick and Sutherland who also sent another header just past. On the stroke of half time, Connor finger-tipped away another Muhsin thunderbolt and from the resulting corner, young student Wallace Brown sent his back post header just past. The only threat Dundonald posed was primarily from huge throw-ins by Thomson but Davidson was rarely troubled.
The second half began in the same vein. A surging run by Brown released Muhsin but Sutherland’s header from the resulting cross was cleared off the line. Then out of the blue, the significant turning point came in 61 minutes. A speculative 35 yard angled Mills shot appeared to everyone, including Davidson, to be going harmlessly past. The distraught keeper could only watch agog as the ball skidded off the surface and creep inside his near post.
Saints remustered and laid siege to the Dundonald goal. In 82 minutes, a Ramsay cut-back from the bye line found Sutherland four yards from goal. Surely an inevitable and deserved equaliser? Unfortunately not, as the ball soared over the bar! Desperation in both camps now as the clock ticked down. Could the ‘Blues’ hold out, could Saints grab a goal? With two minutes of normal time left, Sutherland’s header found skipper Patrick who somehow managed to balloon the ball over, again a few yards from an open goal and, despite the referee playing an inordinate length of stoppage time, Saints just couldn’t make the elusive breakthrough.

United: Davidson; W Brown, Fallon, Hegarty, Brash; Ramsay, Patrick, McGuigan; Muhsin, Maxwell (Evans 79) Sutherland. Subs (not used) Dorward, Farquharson, Finlay, Fraser, Amos

Emirates Scottish Junior Cup

St Andrews United 0 Dundonald Bluebell 0

Pre match forecasts for this eagerly awaited Scottish Junior Cup 2nd round tie suggested that both teams were evenly matched and that Dundonald were more than capable of taking the scalp of their Premier League hosts. The draw proved the first premonition correct but even without a goal it was anything but a drab game during which, both sides had chances to advance to round 3.

Although never a dirty game, both teams ended up with 10 men when Saints Brash was dismissed following his second yellow card offence after 55 minutes only to be followed three minutes later by dangerman Wallace, again for two yellows. Saints were without defensive stalwart Fallon (working) and flying winger Farquharson (hairline foot fracture) but Fraser managed a place on the bench for the first time this season. Saints, playing down the slope, settled immediately and soon had the ‘Blues’ under pressure. In six minutes, Evans broke free down the left but his low cross just eluded Maxwell. Up for a Muhsin corner, Hegarty’s hooked shot into the top corner was palmed away by Dundonald keeper, Rann. Bluebell gradually got to grips with the pace of the game and Hegarty was Saints’ saviour in 21 minutes when he cleared off his own goal line. Dundonald’s striker, Wallace was proving to be a threat and really should have done better after 26 minutes when, with only Davidson to beat, mis-hit his parting shot. Another Bluebell chance was scorned ten minutes later when Mills headed wide before Saints retaliated; Muhsin’s pace took him beyond the Blues defence but he fired narrowly past the post.

With both teams down to ten men early in the second half, the game opened up and more chances at either end went a-begging. Saints, with hit-man Sutherland now on, posed a much greater threat. In 64 minutes, another fine Muhsin run and cross was met by Patrick whose header just failed to find the target. Five minutes later, Davidson’s fine block from Mills saved Saints’ bacon but the shot and save of the game came in 77 minutes. A terrific 18 yard Sutherland strike into the top corner looked to have put Saints into the next round but Rann leapt acrobatically to palm the ball away to safety. In the end, with neither side able to make the vital breakthrough, an exciting but goalless draw appeared to satisfy everyone.

United: Davidson; Finlay, Hegarty, W Brown, Brash; Ramsay (Dorward 83), Patrick, McGuigan; Muhsin, Maxwell, Evans (Sutherland 59). Subs (not used) A Brown, Fraser, Amos

Premier Division

Armadale 3 St Andrews United 3

A quite phenomenal transformation in fortunes saw an under strength Saints side come back from a three goal deficit with a six minute, three goal blitz of their own which gave them a well deserved share of the points and, had they taken their chances, could have ended up as victors. Saints were without influential players McGuigan (flu), Farquharson (injured) and Sutherland (holiday) but defenders Wallace Brown and Ross Dorward returned after injury. Saints started strongly and soon had the Thistle defence under pressure but out of the blue found themselves a goal down in 17 minutes. Home keeper Wilson’s long clearance deep into Saints’ territory found Johnstone who outpaced his two markers and shot low past the outrushing Davidson. Eight minutes later, Johnstone replicated the same move from the other side of the park but fortunately for Saints, his parting shot hit the post. Saints, despite having the lion’s share of possession, were finding it difficult to break down a strong home defence but could a half time pep talk resolve the issue? Any plans they had to get back on level terms went right out the door inside two minutes of the restart when a quickly taken long throw-in on the half way line by Armadale (when it was clearly a Saints’ ball) released dangerman Johnstone who chipped the ball over Davidson to put his side two ahead. As Saints tried to reduce the leeway, Maxwell’s fine effort from Muhsin’s cut back was excellently held by Wilson. However, worse was to follow for Saints in 59 minutes when Chilton’s glancing header flew past a helpless Davidson; nothing appeared to be going in Saints’ favour whose performance certainly didn’t deserve this thumping. Was total capitulation now on the agenda? Hope springs eternal and in an instant Saints had pulled a goal back when slick inter passing released Evans who ran through to slot the ball past Wilson. Armadale were certainly rattled and four minutes later Evans broke through again only to be chopped down in the box. Muhsin made short work of the resulting penalty. Game on. With the bit now between their teeth and Armadale reeling, Saints struck again in 65 minutes with another penalty when Ramsay was adjudged to have been impeded. In a battle of wills, Muhsin out-thought Wilson to send the keeper the wrong way and put his side on level terms. With Saints now playing some exquisite football, they surged forward in search of the winner but Maxwell unfortunately couldn’t take full advantage of the three good chances that came his way and both teams had to be content with the draw.

United: Davidson, W Brown, Fallon, Hegarty, Dorward; Ramsay, Patrick, Brash; Muhsin, Maxwell (Finlay 87), Evans. Subs (not used) Amos, A Brown, Malone

Premier Division

St Andrews Utd 0 Ballingry 1

St Andrews United welcomed league leaders, Ballingry Rovers to Recreation Park on league business. In an entertaining match, Ballingry just edged home with a Fraser goal after 81 minutes. United played for an hour with 10 men, after captain Patrick was shown a straight red card on 32 minutes.

The match started at a high tempo and Ballingry almost opened their account with only 5 minutes on the clock, when leading goal scorer Adam rattled a post with a pile driver. United replied when Evans was sent clear of the visitors defence, but with only Smith to beat, he shot straight into the keepers hands. United at this stage were working hard and showing a much greater hunger than they had shown all season.

The match changed completely after 32 minutes, when Patrick was red carded by referee McGeachie for a strong challenge. It looked a bit harsh, but the reaction from the 'street wise' Ballingry players, probably helped the referee make his decision. Before the interval Ballingry came close when Davidson parried shots from Currie and Moffat. On the stroke of half time Davidson had to race back towards his own goal when his clearance was charged down. Davidson somehow managed to scoop the ball off the line, but it was then played to Moffat, whose weak shot was cleared by Hegarty, with the goal at his mercy.

At the start of the second half Fallon crossed to Muhsin, but his header was blocked at the expense of a corner. A few minutes later, Adam was right through, but his shot was blocked by Davidson's legs. Ballingry finally opened the scoring after 81 minutes when Fraser fired a low shot past Davidson. United rallied and a long clearance from Hegarty found substitute Sutherland, who shot just past. Deep into stoppage time a diving header from Evans was comfortably saved by Smith.

Although this was United's third league defeat at home this season, they at least went down fighting. The spirit and desire in the team was the best it has been all season.

Premier Division

St Andrews Utd 0 Arniston Rangers 3

With all the machinations reverberating around the Rec and further afield regarding seven players being transfer listed, manager Hardie, whose match programme page explained all, also had to contend with key players being unavailable through injury. However, Fallon although not quite match fit, made a welcome return following a knee op.
Having heard that several other matches on the east coast and the prestigious Dunhill Golf had been called off due to the gale force winds, Arniston kicked off with the wind blowing across the park. It was apparent that the visitors would be a hard nut to crack with their tall, solid defence well marshalled by former Glasgow Rangers player, Nisbet.
The first half was a tale of few chances for either side and neither keeper was really tested. Unfortunately for Saints, they trailed by a goal to nil at the interval courtesy of Nisbet in the 19th minute when he outjumped the Saints’ defence at a corner kick to dispatch a looping header past a groping Davidson.
Saints started the second half brightly in their quest for an equaliser but couldn’t quite find the telling pass to prise open the visitors’ uncompromising defence. After 55 mins, Saints felt hard done by when the ref failed to halt play after no advantage to Saints had accrued and they conceded a free kick deep in their own half from which Forster headed home despite the valiant attempts of Finlay and Fallon to keep the ball out. Saints to their credit kept pushing forward but Arniston wrapped up the proceedings with a stunning goal in 75 minutes when Ellis cut in along the bye line to lay the ball back for Forster who rifled the ball beyond Davidson from 20 yards.

United: Davidson; Finlay, Hegarty, Fallon, Brash; Ramsay (Evans 70), McGuigan, Patrick; Muhsin, Maxwell, Sutherland. Subs (not used) A Brown, Dorward, Malone, Traynor

East of Scotland Round 1

Jeanfield Swifts 2 St Andrews Utd 2 Jeanfield won 3-2 on penalties

A bitter pill to swallow as last season’s scalp hunters and semi finalists were scalped! In what was always going to be the proverbial ‘banana skin’ match of this East of Scotland 1st round, Saints’ defensive frailties allowed renowned Jeanfield striker Anderson sufficient space to take full advantage and twice give his side the lead. Dogged determination and two fine goals by Saints strikers brought parity only to see Saints exit the competition on penalties. To compound their misery, Saints actually held a 2-1 advantage in the ‘shoot-out’ thanks to two fine saves by Davidson and successful kicks from Brash and Sutherland but woeful attempts with their last three kicks ultimately proved to be Saints’ final downfall.
Even with the strong crosswind and fiery pitch making ball control and range of pass difficult, Saints started in positive fashion and Muhsin’s rasping 18 yard strike after seven minutes certainly warmed up Swift’s goalie Mitchell’s hands. Following their fifth corner after only 20 mins, Patrick saw his well-placed 25 yard effort pushed away by a diving Mitchell. Up until the 39th minute, burly dangerman Anderson had been well shackled but having given away a needless free kick, Saints defence allowed him to leap unchallenged to put Swifts ahead with a powerful ten yard header.
Saints’ response was instantaneous. Within a minute, a cracking shot on the turn by Sutherland from the edge of the penalty box crashed off the bar and Maxwell, despite being under under pressure, headed in the equaliser. With the interval looming, Muhsin blasted over an unguarded goal.
No sooner had the second half started when Saints were again reminded of the danger Anderson posed when his header bounced off Davidson’s right hand post. However, it was more guile than his height or strength that lead to Swifts’ second goal in 65 minutes.
With the Saints’ defence in position to defend another high ball from a free kick, Swifts craftily fed Anderson with a low grounder. The big striker flicked the ball up and his parting lob sailed over both the defence and the outcoming Davidson. Saints, to their credit, hit back and were “peels” within five minutes when Sutherland leapt ‘salmon
like’ at the near post to meet Muhsin’s fine cross. Try as they did, Saints couldn’t muster a winner and Jeanfield deservedly held on to force the penalty shoot out.

United: Davidson, W Brown (Finlay 58), Hegarty, McInroy (P Browne 79), Brash; McGuigan, Ramsay, Patrick; Muhsin (Evans 82), Maxwell, Sutherland. Subs (not used) A Brown, Dorward, Fallon

Premier Division

St Andrews United 2 Kinnoull

Much to the chagrin of the Perth team’s support, Saints grabbed all three precious league points thanks to an inspired display by last season’s player of the year, goalkeeper Paul Davidson and two late goals after tactical second half substitutions had injected some much needed pace into United’s game. Following last week’s apprehensive defensive display, manager Hardie made a few changes to his line up but was still without Fallon and Herkes, who are still far from being match fit and Fraser, still recuperating from a broken ankle. The first half ended goalless with both teams battling hard for supremacy and seeking the elusive opening goal. Saints playing uphill almost took the lead in 21 minutes when a terrific twenty yard dipper from Muhsin was just centimetres too high while seven minutes later, central defender Browne failed to hit the target with a free header in front of goal. At the opposite end, Kinnoull’s McKinlay broke free but was thwarted by a fine Davidson save. Within two minutes of the re-start, Kinnoull goalie, Bruce did well to palm away Muhsin’s 20 yard screamer but only as far as Patrick. Unfortunately, taken by surprise, the United skipper screwed his six yard effort wide. Kinnoull quickly retaliated and in 50 minutes Holden broke through Saints’ defence only to see his parting shot come back off the post. This was the precursor to a fifteen minute spell of Kinnoull dominance as Saints struggled to stay in the game. Kinnoull striker Holden was causing the Saints’ defence plenty of problems with his powerful running but a succession of fine saves by goalkeeper Davidson, particularly from Holden, kept the score sheet blank. With the introduction of speedy substitutes, the whole complexion of the game changed and suddenly it was Kinnoull who were forced on to the back foot. In 76 minutes Sutherland escaped the clutches of the Kinnoull central defence and latched onto a superb angled pass from W Brown to despatch the ball past the outrushing Bruce. Clearly shocked and definitely deflated, Kinnoull gradually ran out of steam and Saints made the game safe in 87 minutes when Evans squirmed his way into the penalty box only to be pulled back by Nicol. Without hesitation, Muhsin stepped up to send Bruce the wrong way with his expertly taken penalty kick and, now down to ten men, there was no way back for Kinnoull.