OPPORTUNITY TO GAIN EXPERIENCE

In an interview held this afternoon, Manager Alex Smith was looking forward to tonight's encounter with Forfar Athletic in the semi-finals of the Forfarshire Cup. "It gives us another chance to watch some of our young prospects and, in turn, offers them the opportunity to gather more crucial experience. There is nothing quite like facing a Cup tie with a team from a lower division - these types of clashes strengthen any developing player physically as well as mentally. After Monday's fine debut versus Livingston, I am particularly looking forward to another impressive performance by Graham Gartland - the tall 18-year old Irish youth team internationalist from Dublin who joined the Club last Thursday having played his first few years of senior football with Barnsley FC. Further, it will probably be the first Cup tie for young starlet Steven Anderson (pictured) who now has played three U-21 matches and is fast gaining a reputation as a tough-tackling no-nonsense type of defender who plays exceptionally well for his years - this does not only augur well for Dundee United, but is also another great compliment to the judgement of our chief scout Graeme Liveston and his staff. Last but not least, we are extremely delighted to see Jim Paterson returning to match practice tonight following his recent groin injury."

Tonight's semi-final kicks off at 7.30pm at Station Park, Forfar. Admission: