Sow nets hat-trick as strong Tangerines win opener

DUNDEE UNITED 5 KILMARNOCK 2

Osman Sow made a push for a starting slot in United’s team to face Dunfermline at the weekend when he netted a hattrick in yesterday’s Reserve League opener at St Andrews University.

Both teams fielded strong sides as Sow and Peter Pawlett took the chance to work towards full fitness after injuries.

The hosts went ahead in seven minutes when Ian Harkes slotted home after a scramble in the Killie box.

United continued to push and doubled their lead in 22 minutes when Sow scored from the penalty spot after the referee ruled the striker had been held in the box.

Kilmarnock pulled one back four minutes later through Andy Monk and that was how it stood at half-time.

A quick one-two from Sow after the interval put United in control at 4-1.

The former Hearts man scored from eight yards to make it 3-1 and two minutes later completed his hat-trick from close range.

Harkes ended a good run with a fine 20-yard finish for his second of the match to give the Tangerines a four-goal lead with 25 minutes left.

Killie pulled a goal back five minutes later with a header from a free-kick, but United comfortably saw out the game to claim the points.

A number of players who could come into Robbie Neilson’s thoughts got game time with Logan Chalmers coming off the bench after a brief injury.

United: Mehmet, P Watson, Frans, Graham, Sporle, King, Harkes, C Smith, Banks, Pawlett, Sow. Subs: Donaldson, McArthur, Cooney, Chalmers, D Watson, Mochrie, Fraser.