Craig keeps cool to send Saints into semi-finals

ST JOHNSTONE edged Dunfermline in a penalty shootout to reach their first League Cup semi-final since 2014. Shaun Rooney fired the Premiership side ahead at the start of extra-time before the Pars equalised with seven minutes remaining thanks to substitute Iain Wilson. But it was Liam Craig who kept his cool to strike the decisive spot-kick to send Saints back to Hampden. Both teams came into this tie looking to bounce back after home defeats last weekend. Dunfermline’s unbeaten start to the season was ended by Morton, while the Perth men’s run of 11 games without loss was brought to a halt by Livingston. Saints wasted a glorious chance to take the lead ten minutes before half-time. David Wotherspoon’s cross from the right was met by Murray Davidson but, despite being unmarked six yards from goal, his header flew narrowly over. Liam Gordon saw a free header from a corner well held by Pars keeper Owain Fon Williams ten minutes after the break. Saints made the breakthrough four minutes into extra-time. Scott Tanser’s cross from the left was misjudged by the Pars’ defence and the ball fell to Rooney, who took a touch before firing into the corner. Stevie May then saw a shot from 15 yards well saved by Fon Williams before Callum Hendry fired just over. But the Pars struck back seven minutes before the end when Wilson kept cool to slot home from inside the box. After Pars defender Paul Watson and Saints winger Callum Hendry failed from the spot, Dunfermline striker Kevin O’Hara saw his effort saved. The stage was set as Craig kept his cool to ensure Saints advance to the semi-finals.