We lost no time in making it clear to City that they would have to work hard to defend their goal. Motherwell were comfortable in possession and were content to probe for a way to move forward.
Watt tries his luck
An early opener might have arrived after five minutes when the MacLean made the first of many telling contributions. He bore into the City defence, collected a wall pass from Mackin and with only the 'keeper to beat he dragged his shot wide of the post.
City stuck to their task and limited our chances without creating any threat at Morrison's goal.
Half way through the half Hastie let loose a dipping effort from outside the box and Antell had to stretch for the save. The visitors replied with their first attempt but Cummings was off target.
MacLean produced another run into the box and collected the one-two. His shot from seven yards was goal bound but a fine one handed save denied him. MacLean got his reward in 37 minutes when his cross found Mackin at the edge of the box. He turned and gave us the lead with a shot high to the 'keeper’s right. We looked comfortable at the break.
Two auld heids look on
The second goal came on the hour. Fry collected 18 yards out and forced Antell to block his shot. He followed in with a header then a slide to see the ball bundled over the line.
Fry conceded a free kick 20 yards out as the heavens opened but the shot caused no problem. City took their chance as the rain came down in torrents. Cummings blasted beyond Morrison to keep them in touch and prompt a few anxious looks in the home camp. Craigan let it be known that he was not happy.
Falconer and 15 year old Scott were fielded to offer fresh legs for the closing 15 minutes but there was no more scoring and the U20s will be in Thursday's second round draw.
Motherwell U20 2 Edinburgh City 1
Attendance 402
Team: Morrison, McMillan, Armstrong, Maguire, Watt, Campbell, MacLean, Turnbull (Falconer 75), Mackin (Scott 78), Hastie (Livingstone 87), Fry