Capital sides can't be separated as Spartans build towards Tannadice cup cracker

There were opportunities for both sides at the Vanloq Community Stadium, goalkeepers Paddy Martin and Mark Weir on top form for the hosts and visitors respectively.

Spartans striker Marc McNulty and Edinburgh City's Jamie Walker battle for possession. Picture: Mark Brown

Spartans remain top of League Two, although nearest challenges East Kilbride, who have played a game more, are now just a single point off the pace following their 4-2 victory on the road at Annan.

Dougie Samuel's men quickly turn their attention to tomorrow's mouthwatering trip to face Premiership outfit Dundee United, a quarter-final showdown with Falkirk for the team that comes out on top at Tannadice.

The Capital side are hopeful the tie will get the go ahead after the initial staging was postponed last weekend due to a waterlogged pitch.

Samuel, who last week reached a major milestone of 5000 days in charge of Spartans, said: "Over the piece we had the better and more clear cut chances, numerous good opportunities. We also hit the woodwork and had a strong penalty claim turned down. The players’ effort levels, as always, were first class. Although it was frustrating not to take all three points, City are one of the top teams in League Two and had their own what if moments. Over the piece, it was a clean sheet and a performance with lots of positives.

"Tomorrow night’s game is one we are all looking forward to. A very different challenge from what we’re used to. However, we’ll enjoy the challenge and opportunity we’ve worked so hard to create for ourselves.”

Meanwhile, City boss Michael McIndoe was proud of his players' endeavours in what was a combative performance.

"It was a really competitive match, we came here and battled," he said. "Spartans have been doing really well of late, top of the table, but we're a good side and we wanted to see a little bit more aggression in our play, which we did. It's another clean sheet, away from home, so there's a lot to be proud of."

City are now just a point adrift of ninth-placed Dumbarton and will be confident of leapfrogging the Sons in the coming weeks.