Tangerines lose out to controversial goal

A contentious first-half goal, which saw United coach Dave Bowman sent to the stand, enabled Celtic to edge out the Tangerines at Cappielow last night.

Celtic dominated from the start and were denied an opener thanks to a terrific one-handed save by Luis Zwick from a Calvin Miller drive after 14 minutes.

Four minutes later came the goal that decided the outcome. Zwick was at full stretch as he collected a Tony Ralston cross from the left and, as he fell, the stand-side assistant ruled the ball had crossed the line.

United coach Dave Bowman was so enraged with the decision, his protest resulted in him being sent to the stand.

On 34 minutes Logan Chalmers had the Tangerines’ first effort on target, but keeper Ross Doohan comfortably saved his drive from 15-yards.

Having been under the cosh, it was a sign the visitors were at last able to get forward.

However, only Zwick again thwarting Miller prevented United going in two down at the break.

The second half was much more even, but with few clear-cut chances.

Celtic’s Michael Johnston dragged an effort wide of the far post on the hour mark, but that was the nearest either side came to scoring.

Dundee United: Zwick, Ritchie, C Donaldson, Reekie, Hornby, Kaute, Dailly, Chalmers (Mcmeekin 74), B Smith, Appere, Coote (Garden 78).

Sub not used: Long.