Glenn Middleton marked his first start for Dundee United with a stunning strike as the Tangerines defeated AZ Alkmaar 1-0 on an unforgettable European night at Tannadice.
The former Rangers and St Johnstone forward fired past AZ keeper Hobie Verhulst on the hour-mark following a slick one-two with debutant Jamie McGrath.
It was the least United deserved from a tactically astute, resilient display; peppered with no shortage of quality from the hosts.
It speaks volumes that some Arabs may even feel like their heroes could have taken a more handsome lead to the Netherlands next Thursday.
Continental football has change irreparably. Money has skewed everything. The glory days of the 1980s — defeating Barcelona and reaching the UEFA Cup final — are long gone.
I’m actually not sure even in the glory days I’ve seen Tannadice rock with this kind of atmosphere 🤔
— Jim Spence (@JimSpenceDundee) August 4, 2022
But make no mistake, in 2022 this is a result that deserves its place in United’s proud European history.
Now, to finish the job in Alkmaar.
An onerous challenge, still. But one United have proved they are up to.
Inspired by fans — and legends
Dundee United supporters set the scene for an electric night — from the march to the stadium to a stunning pre-match display.
The ‘corteo’ saw a sea of Tangerine lap through the sun-kissed streets of Dundee, while a sold-out Tannadice created a wall of noise.
As if that was not sufficiently inspiring for the players as they waited to take to the field, the iconic David Narey — perhaps the greatest to ever wear a United shirt — was honoured prior to kick-off.
The ordinarily publicity-shy Narey earned a thunderous ovation as he received a glass trophy from chairman Mark Ogren to celebrate his 76 European appearances for the club; more than any other United player in history.
The stage was set.
Jack Ross’ words prove prophetic
Narey would have loved what he witnessed from his beloved United.
A quality side? Absolutely.
But, as he pointed out: United face — and get results against — quality sides with regularity in the Premiership.
And Ross’ words proved prophetic.
After a nervy opening 10 minutes, United settled into their groove and proved that — for all the talk of AZ’s technical expertise — they could play a bit, too.
Dylan Levitt was a class act, barely wasting a pass. Craig Sibbald was superb, making two key interceptions and stinging the palms of Hobie Verhulst with a powerful drive.
Charlie Mulgrew was defensively outstanding and started attacks with aplomb.
Tony Watt also illustrated his European nous, winning countless fouls.
By the time Steven Fletcher skewed a shot wide from inside the box after the break, there was real belief that United could take a lead to the Netherlands.
A stern test for Kieran Freeman
Courier Sport understands Scott McMann failed a late fitness test.
With Aziz Behich yet to receive clearance, it meant Kieran Freeman — a naturally right-sided player — was pitched in at left-back.
And he was clearly targeted by the Eredivisie outfit.
AZ repeatedly zipped clever passes in behind Freeman, releasing Mayckel Lahdo on several occasions. In truth, the winger was let down by his final ball.
Towering striker Vangelis Pavlidis also ghosted past Freeman to meet a deep delivery, forcing Mark Birighitti into a sharp low save in the visitors’ best chance of a breathless opening 45.
However, by the end of the night, Freeman can be proud of diligently sticking to his task and playing his part in a precious clean sheet.
M & M Magic
AZ threatened. Pavlidis lashed a ferocious drive inches wide and Hakon Evjen forced a stop from Verhulst.
However, United never looked overawed and always retained attacking impetus.
Dundee United 1-0 AZ Alkmaar
What a goal this is from Glenn Middleton! 👏
Watch the superb strike ⤵️
📺 TV Coverage on @BBCScotland
📲 Live text
📻 @BBCSportsound #BBCFootball— BBC Sport Scotland (@BBCSportScot) August 4, 2022
And Tannadice erupted on the hour-mark when the hosts claimed the lead.
Levitt sprayed a fine pass out to Middleton, who skipped past his man and produced a delightful exchange of passes with Jamie McGrath — on for his United debut — before curling a sublime drive beyond Verhulst.
Following his United bow against Kilmarnock last weekend, Middleton told Courier Sport of his desire to recapture the form which made him such a precocious breakthrough star with Rangers as a teenager.
What a start, this was.
And what a start to United’s European adventure; an adventure that could very well extend beyond Alkmaar.
Dundee United reveal ticket allocation for AZ Alkmaar away leg as Tangerines secure extra briefs
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