United slump to defeat by Rossvale

United welcomed back James Brown and Tony Stevenson after suspension and made a bright start to the game.

Davie Dickson and Kieran Brown had efforts at goal in the opening minutes but the nearest scoting attempt came in the 32nd minute.

A great move involving Dickson and Dale Clark set up Ryan Tiffany but his shot hit the upright and rebounded to safety.

However a United goal was not long delayed. Again Dickson was involved when his fierce drive was palmed away by Rossvale keeper Jamie Donnelly and Tiffany was on hand to fire home.

A good attempt from Dale Clark hit the crossbar as United piled on the presure.

Cumbernauld’s good form continued in the opening minutes of the second period but Rossvale were getting stronger and equalised in the 65th minute when Craig Holmes was on hand to connect from a low ball across goal.

Rossvale were now on top and it was no surprise when Erald Krasniqi blasted the ball into the net to give them the lead.

The visitors then missed the chance to stretch their lead when they were awarded a penalty but Krasniqi’s shot hit an upright and was cleared.

Cumbernauld tried hard for an equaliser and a Simon Eeles header came near but it was a disappointing second half showing by the home team who badly need a morale boosting run to please their supporters.

The loss made it three defeats out of three with just Saturday’s match against fellow strugglers to come.

For Rossvale the win kept alive their hopes of pipping Rob Roy and Kilsyth and making it through to the quarter-finals.

United would like to thank Lorraine’s Sweets of the Town Centre for sponsoring the half-time draw.