Queens skipper Jim Thomson returned from injury in triumphant style as he lead his team to a deserved victory over a domoralised Livingston.
Don't be fooled by the narrow scoreline as Queens could have won by a much bigger margin but for an inspired performance by the huge Liberda in the Livy goal. The giant keeper used every part of his enormous frame to keep out Queens. Dobbie in fact could have had a hatrick but was thwarted at point blank range repeatedly by the big keeper.
The first half was almost one way traffice with Queens at last showing some form against a Livingston side which showed very little up front. O'Connor and Dobbie looked in the mood and brought out some amazing saves from Liberda. Just before half-time O'Connor should have given the big keeper no chance however when he blasted the ball into Terregles Street from only a few yards out. How on earth Queens were not ahead at half-time was a complete mystery.
Half-Time - Queens 0 Livingston 0
Queens started the second half with a bang and laid seige to the visitors goal and were rewarded on 54 minutes with a rather scrappy goal when Scally ran through and his shot seemed to deflect off a defender into the corner of the net. There was a moment of silence before the Portland Road end erupted in sheer relief that Queens had actually scored.
Everyone expected Livingstone to come back at us but Queens had a firm grip on the game and cointinued to make chances. Burns had a great run but shot well over and Bingham had tremendous volley blocked by the magnificent Liberda.
There were an axious last ten minutes as Livingston tried to salvage a point but Thomson and Laughlan held firm in defence and Queens ran out worthy winners.
This was a welcome three points for Queens and they were well worth their win. Although without Eric Paton due to injury they looked a lot more solid at the back with Thomson having a big influence.
Burns also had a fine game with Tosh showing signs of returning to the form he showed at Gretna. O'Connor as usual worked hard up front with Dobbie unfortunate to be up against such a brilliant keeper as Liberda.
Queen's manager Gordon Chisolm will be pleased he will soon be able to field his best eleven with all the injuries and suspensions out of the way. With Adams available for next week's clash with Morton at Cappielow Queens can look forward with confidence.
I can't wait !
Duke's man of the match - Jim Thomson - a strong and determined display.
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