QUEENS PAY THE PENALTY
LIVINGSTON sent out a clear notice they are genuine title contenders with their first win away from home this term.
Gary Bollan’s side, without a win at Dumfries in 11 years, wasted no time to ensure that record was going to be improved on when youngster Marc McNulty picked the ball up in midfield, strode forward unchallenged and drilled a low 20-yard shot on target which Queen’s goalkeeper Lee Robinson touched onto his right-hand post but couldn’t prevent the ball ending up in the net.
Livi carved another great chance in 32 minutes when Mark Fotheringham swung over a corner which Bobby Barr head flicked on target, but Alan Johnston was well placed to clear off the line.
In near monsoon conditions Queens should have levelled in 58 minutes when they were awarded a penalty after Barr barged Kevin Smith to the ground, but Smith’s poor spot kick was easily saved by goalkeeper Andy McNeil.
It was the crucial turning point, as Livi effectively wrapped up victory in 65 minutes when the McNulty was again given too much space, Robinson blocked his shot, but Fotheringham reacted first to ram home the rebound.