Craig hails Spanish hero

Aug 3 2008 By Robert Thomson

UNITED boss Craig Levein hailed star striker Francisco Sandaza for showing fans what had knocked him out on DVD.

The 23-year-old ex-Valencia star lit up the match against Plymouth with a sensational winner in 47 minutes.

Levein has used Sandaza sparingly as he builds his fitness ahead of next week's curtain raiser with Hamilton.

But after signing the Spaniard on the strength of what he had seen on film the Tannadice gaffer is delighted his judgment is being backed by goals. He said: "Francisco showed again he has a natural instinct in front of goal.

"It was a great finish and showed why I brought him here. He's quick and dangerous in the box.

"Warren Feeney had a really good game too. He needed that to get his fitness levels up.

"We played okay although we huffed and puffed in the first half."

Pilgrims boss and United legend Paul Sturrock, who is suffering from Parkinson's, was bowled over by his reception from the Tangerines' fans.

He went on the pitch after the final whistle to applaud them - but only after he had roasted his players.

Luggy said: "The reaction from the United fans was fantastic. They are a great support.

"I had a 10-minute chat with my players. Several of them lack belief. It's disappointing some people are not expressing themselves properly."