By David Buick
Dunfermline hosted Falkirk in the Betfred Cup for what is always a hotly contested and entertaining fixture, this being no different as the Pars ran out 2-0 winners.
An end to end first half saw both sides create good chances just without a cutting edge saw that had the sides go in level at the break. In the second show it was all about Dominic Thomas and Euan Murray.
Twice Dom Thomas found Murray in the box from a set-piece to put the Pars in front, and then to double the lead. In the end the Pars were comfortable and could have extended their lead on numerous occasions. Here are three things we learned from the match.
Murray captain fantastic for the Pars
Following the departure of Paul Paton in the summer, Stevie Crawford appointed Murray as club skipper, and it was a brilliant captain’s performance that sealed the win for the Pars.
Two second half goals from Murray set the Pars on their way to victory, as the East End Park leader twice met a Thomas set-piece to head home.
As well as obviously taking plaudits for his goals, Murray marshalled the back line throughout, communicating and working well with his new defensive partner, Paul Watson. As a defender, the clean sheet will mean just as much.
Thomas stars for the Pars
Having signed permanently for the Pars in the summer following an impressive loan spell last season, Dunfermline fans have been very excited to see what the former Kilmarnock man has to offer this season.
If this performance is anything to go by, then Thomas will be a key player this campaign for Crawford. His pace, trickery and direct running gave Scott Mercer a torrid time at right back. As well as his creative wing play, he also went close twice in the first half with a free kick well saved by Robbie Mutch, and an attempt direct from a corner that almost crept in.
It was no surprise that he was involved in both the games goals. His delivery for both of Murray’s goals was a shining example of how dangerous his delivery can be from set-pieces. A constant threat all night, and fans will be hoping it is a sign of what is to come.
Positives in defeat for the Bairns
For some Falkirk fans, defeat to their bitter rivals might mean that finding positives might be a really tough task. However, there were some positives on show.
There was a good 20-minute spell in the first half where the Bairns looked very dangerous. Callumn Morrison down the right looked bright throughout and on a number of occasions put in dangerous crosses. One notable golden chance fell for Aidan Keena, who like his former Hearts teammate Morrison, looked a threat at the top end of the pitch.
Falkirk also had a very good claim for a penalty in the first half and they will feel that had that been given, it could have maybe been their night. Nevertheless it is clear that Falkirk have recruited well and they will feel confident at chasing the League One title this season.