Lovell's first strike seals it for Falkirk

FORMER Aberdeen striker Steve Lovell was given his first start for Falkirk since joining the club at the beginning of the season and he made an immediate impact by firing home the goal which defeated a spirited Queen of the South side and propelled the Bairns into the fourth round of the Co-Operative Insurance Cup, writes ALAN FAIRLEY.

Lovell struck midway through the second half after Neil McCann's superb early volley had been cancelled out by Stewart Kean's equaliser.

"It's great for a striker to get his first goal for a new club," said Falkirk manager John Hughes, "and I'm delighted for Steve now that he's off the mark.

"It was hard work, but I always knew that would be the case as I've had Queen of the South watched a few times and I know they are a very good side who could well be in the SPL next season."

Former Hearts midfielder Neil McCann opened the scoring when he fired home from Jackie McNamara's cross after 29 minutes but Stewart Kean brought the Doonhamers level when he lobbed Bairns keeper Robert Olejnik early in the second half.

Despite claims from the Queens defenders for offside, Lovell secured the tie in the 73rd minute when he ran 40 yards with the ball before rounding Cammy Bell and slotting home the winner.