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Livingston comfortably advance to Premiership play-off final after victory against Partick Thistle

Livingston comfortably advance to Premiership play-off final after victory against Partick Thistle

Livingston comfortably secured their spot in the final of the William Hill Premiership play-offs with a 4-0 aggregate win over Partick Thistle.

After leading 2-0 from the first leg, David Martindale’s team never looked in danger as Jamie Brandon scored just before half-time to extend their lead.

A sensational half-volley from Stevie May in the second half ended any hopes of a comeback from Thistle.

Next, the Lions will meet the team finishing second from bottom in the Premiership.

The opponent will be decided after Ross County and Dundee battle it out, as they currently occupy the play-off spot.

Thistle had an early opportunity after Scott Pittman fouled Ben Stanway near the area.

Despite Steven Lawless taking the free-kick, he missed the target with a high shot.

Although Livi had more possession, Thistle had better chances in attack.

Logan Chalmers nearly found Aidan Fitzpatrick with a cross, and Stanway’s long shot was deflected off target after hitting Danny Wilson.

The home team's first shot came in the 23rd minute when Wilson's header narrowly missed.

The goalkeepers were quiet early on, but both made saves in quick succession as the match opened up.

Thistle's David Mitchell saved Lewis Smith’s curled effort, while Jerome Prior caught Brian Graham’s shot comfortably.

The opening goal arrived in the 40th minute, as Brandon scored to give Livi a crucial advantage in the tie.

At half-time, Martindale made changes to avoid suspensions for Brandon and Robbie Muirhead.

Thistle faced a tough task, but they showed attacking intent in the second half.

Kanayo Megwa's cross narrowly missed the target, and Stanway tested Prior from a tight angle.

The game was sealed in the 67th minute when May's half-volley from Pittman's pass beat Mitchell.

Graham's frustrating night was highlighted by his free-kick hitting the side-netting.

Thistle fought hard to reach the play-offs and come back from a quarter-final deficit against Ayr, but reaching the final proved too difficult.