Barney Stewart's seventh goal since returning from loan spell with Dunfermline sent Falkirk to the Scottish Cup semi-finals with a 2-1 victory over Dundee United. Stewart opened the scoring inside nine minutes, heading home after Ashley Maynard-Brewer could only palm away Brad Spencer's shot from 20 yards. Finn Yeats doubled the lead in the 21st minute with a near-post finish from Leon McCann's cross.

Dundee United's first meaningful effort came in first-half stoppage time when substitute Julius Eskesen steered in Will Ferry's cutback to halve the deficit. The goal sparked United into life, but Zac Sapsford wasted two excellent chances either side of halftime, hitting the post after being set up by new signing Johnny Russell. The visitors' frustration was evident as the final whistle confirmed an uninspiring end to their season.

Jim Goodwin's side now trail sixth-placed Falkirk by nine points with four games remaining before the William Hill Premiership split. The victory sets up a likely top-half finish and keeps alive hopes of cup glory for the Bairns, who reached the semi-finals just three years ago under John McGlynn.