Thompson goal sees off Motherwell

Easton in action
By Sean Saranczuk
April 13 2002

Dundee United claimed all three points from Motherwell with a strike by Steven Thompson in the 67th minute at Tannadice.

Both sides had their chances, although United had the lion's share of possession and were unfortunate not to be at least a goal in front at the break.

Danny Griffin drilled in a first-minute 20-yard free-kick which was well held by Dubourdeau.

However, the luckless Northern Ireland international had to be withdrawn after just 10 minutes through injury to be replaced by Stephen O'Donnell.

United enjoyed the majority of the possession, thanks to the midfield promptings of Tassos Venetis and Charlie Miller and Dubourdeau was the busier of the two goalkeepers.

Dubourdeau showed his sharp reflexes in the 17th minute when he palmed away a crisp header by Thompson after Jim Lauchlan's free-kick.

It took until the 28th minute - after midfielder Derek Adams was booked for a foul on Miller - for the visitors to fashion their first opening.

James McFadden delivered a precise cross from the right only for Stuart Elliott to volley wide after drifting into the danger area. In reality it should have been the opening goal.

For all United's good work they still could not find a way through and, at the other end, Steven Hammell went too close for comfort for the home fans when a speculative shot flew just over.

Alex Smith's outfit re-emerged after the break with an extra zest about them. This was highlighted with the increasing positive play by midfielder Miller, with the former Rangers' player prompting almost every time the home side took possession.

United continued to probe and their patience was rewarded with the goal in the 67th minute.

Venetis found Miller in space 25 yards out and, after he created a yard of space for himself, he let fly with a low left-foot drive which was touched on to the post by Dubourdeau.

Unfortunately for the goalkeeper, new Scotland international Thompson was lurking in the right place at the right time to follow up with a simple finish to put the Tangerines in front.

Motherwell almost shocked United with an equaliser three minutes later but Ferrere could only look on in anguish when he headed over from Adam's corner.

Miller was substituted with a few minutes remaining to a standing ovation from the home support.