With a strong wind behind them United took advantage when McClymont shot home but was ruled offside. But only five minutes later he put United ahead when indecision by Gatt and McLean let him in to score.

Hearts hit back and equalised when P.A. Bruce shot home after Dennison blocked an effort from Ballard. United went 2-1 up when a wicked Kane free kick came off Cunningham's head and flew into the net. The wind was causing havoc in the Hearts' defence and McLymont made it 3-1 when he shot from outside the box which left Gatt with no chance.

Ballard tried to get Hearts back in the game but Dennison blocked his shot from ten yards. Hearts then went 4-1 down when a corner wasn't properly cleared and McClymont pounced to score after Gatt parried an Elliot effort.

Hearts, with the wind behind them, were hoping to claw back a three-goal advantage but it was United who came close through Barclay. Hearts subbed Donaldson for Park and they got a goal back when Hart played a great through ball to Ballard who shot past Denniison to make it 4-2.

Campbell came on for the injured Kevin Simpson and a great diagonal ball from him almost put Ballard in but he lost control at the crucial moment. But he was not going to be denied and he got Hearts back to 4-3 when he scored from close in to beat Dennison.

It was all Hearts and it was no surprise when they equalised with eight minutes left after Davidson found Donaldson whose great cross fopind Ballard at the back post and he shot home to make it 4-4. United were hanging on but Hearts couldnt find the winner.

This was a great Scottish Cup tie with a great comeback by Hearts after being down and out at half time. But they showed great character to come back to fight another day. They have to do it all again next Saturday at Cumbernauld. The bus will leave the club at 9am.

The match sponsor Johnny Gibbin and guests picked the Man of the Match from each team. The award for United deservedly went to McLymont. The Hearts Man of the Match was richly deserved by Derek McKechnie who ran endlessly from end to end for the entire match.