Changes pay off for Hopkin

David Hopkin stuck to the successful 3-5-2 system he has used all season but made a string of changes to the starting line-up – all of which paid off.

The return of Declan Gallagher allowed the centre-back trio to be reunited and, as has been the case all season, he combined with Craig Halkett and Alan Lithgow to give very little away and keep a clean sheet for the second time in three away league fixtures.

Gallagher’s return, although marred by a late sending-off, also allowed Nikolay Todorov to take up his more familiar berth up front and he proved to be tricky for Falkirk’s centre-backs. The surprise selection came in central midfield where James Penrice, naturally a left-sided defender, was utilised.

He may have taken a while to grow into the game but showed terrific instincts and composure to tee-up the first goal.

Jackson Longridge continued to impress in a further forward left-sided role than he played last term.

Livi changed to a 4-5-1 when Jack McMillan came off the bench and that had the desired effect as it frustrated the visitors and allowed the Lions to see the game out.