Kevin Signs Until 2009

Great news that Kevin McDonald has signed until the end of next season. I'ts wonderful news and a massive boost..I thought he might sign pre deal with one of the hosts of clubs watching him..Kevin's got 8 Goals so far this season..great from a midfielder..

Dundee 1 Partick Th 0, Dens Park, 28/Dec/07

A last-gasp Kevin McDonald goal was enough to keep Dundee's title hopes on track against 10-man Partick Thistle. With the game in stoppage time, McDonald twisted and turned inside the box before firing low past goalkeeper Craig Hinchcliffe at his near post. The visitors had Wille Kinniburgh sent off for a clash with Jani Sturm five minutes before the break. Dundee's luck seemed out as they had goals by McDonald and Sturm ruled out for offside in each half. A massive 3 points for Dundee, and sets up Wednesdays game at Perth v St.Johnstone.

Latest From Dens Park...

Dundee are without the suspended Derek Lyle with a ban that will render him ineligible for league fixtures running into February. After Wednesday's red card, Lyle misses out on Saturday and will be banned for three further matches from 19 January. Manager Alex Rae says he will look at bringing in a loan striker to fill the gap...

Q.O.S 2 Dundee1, Palmerston Park, 26/12/07

Queen of the South came from behind to secure victory over 10-man Dundee as the visitors lost ground at the top of the First Division. An off-the-ball clash with Jim Thomson saw Dundee's Derek Lyle sent off in the seventh minute. But Dundee went ahead when a corner from Eddie Malone was headed on for Milan Palenik to stab the ball home. Paul Burns lashed in the equalier on the stroke of half-time and later David Worrell slid the ball into his own net. A poor result for Dundee, the sending off of Derek Lyle was a big blow, and he will miss a few games now..

Morton 0 Dundee 2, Cappielow, 14/12/07

Dundee kept pace with leaders Hamilton at the top of Division One with a goal in each half away to Morton. Kevin McDonald skipped past a couple of challenges before picking his spot with a fine right-footed shot for a fine solo goal after 13 minutes. Morton pressed after the break and Ian Russell slid the ball just wide, while Scott Robertson cleared a header from sub Chris Templeman off the goal-line. But Derek Lyle nipped in to slide the ball home a minute from time. A massive win for Dundee and puts us level with Hamilton....

Dundee 3 Stirling Albion 1, Dens Park, 08/Dec/07

In what was a poor first half for Dundee-when they failed to penetrate the Stirling defence, with the long ball not working. Alex Rae made changes when he took off Jan Zemlik and put on Derek Lyle, and it paid off ........Dundee burst into life with three second-half goals to go level on points with First Division leaders Hamilton. The home side were first to strike when Gavin Swankie lined up Scott Robertson neatly for the opening goal. Midfielder Kevin McDonald fired in a glorious 25-yard effort to double the lead and Derek Lyle added a third after a quick free-kick by Paul McHale. Stirling Albion battled bravely but Steven Bell's angled 20-yard strike proved mere consolation. A massive result for Dundee and with the news that Hamilton had lost 2-0 at Livi, made it even better...

Alex Rae..Manager of the Month for November...

Dundee's Alex Rae is the First Division's Irn-Bru Phenomenal manager of the month for November. Rae picked up the award after closing in to just three points behind league leaders Hamilton Accies. The Dens Park club pipped Tayside rivals St Johnstone with a last-minute winner, lost to Clyde and beat the Accies last month. And Rae's side carried on their good form with a 1-0 success at Dunfermline last weekend. Meanwhile, Rae will serve a two-match touchline suspension as a result of misconduct during the match against Hamilton. And he is facing the prospect of a further four-match ban after being reported for using "offensive, insulting an abusive language" to an assistant referee at Dunfermline. Rae has until 12 December to launch an appeal with the Scottish Football Association against the charge.

Dunfermline Ath 0 Dundee 1, East End Park, 01/Dec/07

Kevin McDonald's goal compounded Dunfermline's misery and kept Dundee in touch with league leaders Hamilton. Derek Lyle almost gave Dundee the lead in the opening minute when he was inches away from Bob Davidson's cross. Dunfermline came close to breaking the deadlock through Mark Burchill but his goalbound effort was cleared by Dundee's Eddie Malone. McDonald struck 18 minutes from time when he collected Jani Sturm's pass and fired home from four yards. A massive 3 points for the Dark Blues, we play Stirling Albion at Dens next Saturday.

Dundee 1 Hamilton Accies 0, Dens Park, 24/Nov/07

Dundee beat Hamilton to narrow the gap on battling Division One leaders Hamilton Accies to three points with a hard-fought victory thanks to a Scott Robertson winner. Robertson stabbed the ball past the goalkeeper after 12 minutes following Milan Palenik through ball after the Dees dominated early play. It was a good goal and we started really well. Hamilton had chances as well but their strikers were having a day off. Into the second half and Hamilton had a great chance to level, when Richard Offiong blasted over a 52nd-minute penalty after MacKenzie's hand ball. The rest of the game was from end to end to the end, but good defending from both defences kept the score the same. So a massive result for Dundee, and I thought Milan Palenik had a great game, but everyone worked hard on a day the result was the most important thing. I also thought that the Ref and Standside linesman were very poor today, with Alex Rae getting send to the stand.....next up is Dunfermline (away) this Saturday.

Dundee 0 Clyde 1, Dens Park, 12/November/07

The Dark Blues made four changes—two enforced—to the side that started against St Johnstone eight days ago. With key midfielder McDonald and in-form striker Davidson falling ill, in came Paul McHale and Jani Sturm.Freddie Daquin dropped to the bench, with Gavin Swankie promoted, while David Worrell took the place of Martyn Corrigan who has gone back to Motherwell following his loan spell. Dundee squandered a decent chance on six minutes when Swankie fired past from inside the box, but other than that the early exchanges were bereft of excitement. Clyde’s first foray forward came on 26 minutes when the impressive Dougie Imrie’s cutback from inside the box had no takers.Scott Robertson shot wide for Dundee a minute later, then the Dark Blues came within inches of the opener when Bully Wee defender Steven Masterton sent a looping header on to his own bar with half-an-hour on the clock. The visitors thought they had taken the lead three minutes before the break when an Imrie corner from the right went past Robertson at the near post and appeared to cross the goal-line before being cleared by Worrell—neither referee Kenny Clark nor assistant David Watt thought so, however, and Dundee breathed a sigh of relief. After the interval, McHale had a shot deflected for a corner then— following a handball by Neil McGregor—Eddie Malone hit a freekick that was comfortably held by Clyde goalie David Hutton. The visitors produced the best move on 55 minutes when a crossfield pass from sub Christian Smith was superbly controlled by Imrie, who cut inside then shot just wide from the edge of the area.Lyle headed past three minutes later following good work from Swankie, who was beginning to make progress down the left, before Dundee’s Gary McKenzie had a header cleared.The Dark Blues were cranking things up now, and when the ball fell to Malone inside the box only desperate defending from Clyde kept their goal intact.Malone then went down inside the box under the challenge of Craig McEwan, but referee Clark pulled play back for a handball against the midfielder, with McHale getting booked for protesting the decision.Sturm beat the offside trap on 67 minutes but could not control the ball inside the six-yard box, then McHale worked his way into the area, but could only fire into the arms of Hutton. Dundee brought on Daquin on 72 minutes to an encouraging round of applause as he swapped places with Sturm. Clyde midfielder Raurie McLennan tested Craig Samson with an effort from 25 yards, which the Dens keeper punched away, before David O’Brien came on for Robertson. The roof then caved in on the home side with just four minutes to go. Man-of-the-match Imrie tormented Dundee out on the left again before delivering a cross into the box, which was deflected past Samson by full-back Dixon. Clyde sub Kevin Bradley was running in at the back post and would probably have scored anyway, but that was no consolation to Dixon. It could have been worse just after the restart when Samson, under pressure from Bradley, made a hash of things—and when the ball fell to Gary Arbuckle he could only blast over with the goal gaping. Dundee’s Milan Palenik had a snap-shot saved in injury-time, but it was Clyde’s day as they climbed off the bottom of the table. A poor result for Dundee, but at least we play Hamilton at Home next.......make or break game for us..........

Dundee 2 St.Johnstone 1, Dens Park, 03/November/07

Dundee won the game with a stunning second half performance. Kevin McDonald scored a last-minute winner to stun St Johnstone after the visitors looked set for a point. If Dundee giving up the first goal came as no great surprise, it was a shock that it took Saints 17 minutes to break the deadlock for they had pummelled the Dark Blues from the opening whistle. Four times in the opening seven minutes Owen Coyle’s side might readily have scored, but Andy Jackson and Willie McLaren fluffed fantastic chances, Craig Samson saved well from Rocco Quinn and Scott Robertson cleared a Steven Anderson header off the line. The goal when it eventually arrived was shrouded in controversy. Milan Palenik inexplicably allowed the ball to bounce over him leaving Anderson free to find Paul Sheerin, whose powerful strike looked netbound until Gary MacKenzie thrust out an arm to block. MacKenzie claimed he’d been struck between the shoulder blade and chest but it certainly appeared a clear cut handling offence, punishable by a red card as well as a penalty kick. However, referee Iain Brines only yellow carded MacKenzie, reasoning, apparently, that goalkeeper Samson was on the line and therefore might have pulled off an unlikely save. Justice was done when Sheerin netted from the spot, for the sixth time this term. Strangely, having taken the lead the visitors fell out of the game. But Dundee still couldn’t get their act together, Daquin’s header from a Derek Lyle cross which Alan Main saved easily was all they could offer as far as forcing an equaliser was concerned. The tactical changes made by Rae very nearly paid dividends within four minutes of the restart when Robertson burst along the by-line and cut-the ball back only for Lyle to stub his shot wide with Main beaten.
The leveller finally arrived on the hour though when Kevin McDonald, back to goal, held off a number of Saints defenders before rolling the ball into the path of Bob Davidson who, having passed up a couple of half chances earlier, slotted it away. The game threatened to take a fresh twist as St Johnstone came back to life late on, Samson doing well to save Anderson’s header from a Quinn corner before being fouled by Kenny Deuchar and Anderson skying his finish as he slid in to meet a deflected Quinn free-kick at the back post. But in stoppage time up popped McDonald to stick the ball past Main and move Dundee seven points clear of their Tayside rivals. A great result for the Dark Blues, plus a big result as Hamilton lost 2-1.

Partick Thistle 1 Dundee 1, Firhill, 27/October/07

DUNDEE had to come back from a goal down once again to grab a share of the spoils in a 1-1 draw at Firhill on Saturday. The home side created several early chances but were denied by bad luck and some good goalkeeping by the Dark Blues’ Craig Samson. John Robertson, Marc Twaddle and Paul Keegan all had opportunities to give the Jags the lead but were kept out until five minutes from the break when Keegan netted from eight yards out. Ian McCall’s side began the second half looking for the killer second goal and almost grabbed it when Scott Chaplain rolled the ball into the path of Robertson who blazed over. Five minutes later Thistle paid the price when the Dens men were awarded a penalty. Twaddle barged into Scott Robertson inside the penalty area and Derek Lyle made no mistake from the spot. A good point for the dark blues, but with Hamilton winning 1-0 the gap is now 6 points.

Dundee 4 Livingstone 1, Dens Park, 20/October/07

In what was a poor performance from Dundee in the 1st half ,to a different story in the 2nd half . Livi took the lead after 14 minutes through Tomas Pesir who swept home Graham Dorrans' clever cut-back. Bob Davidson equalised with a superb 30-yard strike, but three goals in 12 minutes sealed the game, first Jan Zemlik put us ahead for the first time with a simple tap in from 6 yards.Bob Davidson then grabbed his second of the game in the 68th minute with a fine solo effort. Substitute Derek Lyle sealed the points for Dundee. A great result for the dark blues, but we need to stop going 1 nil down before we start playing. With Hamilton winning 5-0 at Dunfermline, it's a very vital 3 points.

Latest News From Dens....................

Dundee defender Milan Palenik has picked up a hamstring injury and will miss the visit of Livingston. Goalkeeper Ludovic Roy and defender David O'Brien are still missing, but right-back David Worrell has recovered from his hamstring injury. It's a must win game for the Dark Blues, just to get back on track after the defeat at Hamilton. Loan signing Martyn Corrigan could play centre half, boss Alex Rae has Danny Griffin available as well.

Hamilton 2 Dundee 0, New Douglas Park, 05/October/07

Mark McLaughlin sparked an Accies late show as the league leaders dumped their nearest rivals to open up a four-point gap at the summit. McLaughlin scored their first with seven minutes left and sub Paul McLeod added the gloss with number two in the last minute. Dundee had clearly arrived at New Douglas Park looking for a point and seemed to have secured it until that collapse in the dying stages. The Dens Park men opted for a cautious approach from the outset with four at the back including on-loan Motherwell defender Martyn Corrigan and five across the midfield. Hamilton tried to grab the early initiative and had a penalty shout turned down by referee Dougie McDonald after Richard Offiong and Gary MacKenzie clashed. Martin McLoughlin headed a Tony Stevenson free-kick wide as they kept up the pressure. A clever piece of defending by Paul Dixon stopped David Winters breaking into the Dundee box as the home side launched another raid. However, the visitors showed how dangerous they are on the break when Freddie Daquin raced down the right and crossed for Jan Zemlik but his header drifted past. Accies claimed a penalty again when Mark Gilhaney went down after robbing MacKenzie of possession but ref McDonald felt Milan Palenik's challenge was fair. The home side were fortunate when Stevenson lost possession to Scott Robertson who found Zemlik in the box but the striker delayed his shot and what looked a promising attack fizzled out. Dundee were given another chance when the referee awarded them a free-kick 25 yards from goal but Gavin Swankie fired wide. Swankie was proving a real threat on the left and his wicked cross appeared to be heading for the giant Zemlik until McLaughlin rose brilliantly to reach the ball first and nod clear. Corrigan was booked after 37 minutes for a rash challenge on Gilhaney near the centre circle. Dixon again did well to foil the threat of Winters when he looked set to get on the end of Gilhaney's cross. Just before the break Dundee had a narrow let off from a Stevenson corner. David Elebert's shot rattled Craig Samson's left hand post and bounced wide off the leg of Offiong. Gilhaney was getting little joy in the wide left position but early in the second period cut inside and drilled a shot that slid just wide of the target. Dundee were forced into a change after 55 minutes when Palenik limped off to be replaced by Danny Griffin. Dixon went close with a long-range shot for Dundee but clear-cut chances continued to be few and far between. It began to look as if the only hope for a goal was from a set piece and McLaughlin went close to providing one from a short corner. Stevenson found Gilhaney but his cross was headed over the bar by the Accies number six. Gilhaney then drifted past Corrigan for one of the few times in the game but was brought down on the edge of the box. The free-kick was in a dangerous position out on the left but Dundee were able to scramble the delivery clear. Hamilton sent on Stuart Taylor for Stevenson as they attempted to alter the pattern after 68minutes. A minute later the injured Offiong hobbled off with Brian Wake heading the other way. Zemlik was replaced by Derek Lyle in the 75th minute and two minutes later Dundee almost grabbed a goal. Kevin McDonald, who was having a quiet game by his standards, burst into the Hamilton box shrugging off three defenders on his way but dragged his effort wide of goal from 10 yards. In 83 minutes the home side at last made a breakthrough. McDonald was booked for pulling back James McCarthy in midfield and from Winters' delicate free-kick McLaughlin pounced to head powerfully past Samson. In the final minute substitute McLeod side footed a second goal for Hamilton after good play by another one of their replacements Wake.

Dundee 2 Morton 1, Dens Park, 29/Sept/07

Jani Sturm scored a second-half winner as Dundee kept up the pressure on league leaders Hamilton. Sturm came off the bench to fire the home side in front for the second time with a scrambled finish. Dundee exploded into action with a second-minute opener, Milan Palenik prodding home from close range. But as the hosts wasted opportunities to extend their lead, Morton grew in confidence and stunned the home side with a clever Brian Graham equaliser. A great three points for the dark blues, they looked tired in the second half, but the spirit is very good at Dens just now. A big game at Hamilton now, we can go top with a win...mon the dee

Latest From Dens.

Dundee right-back David Worrell is a major doubt for Saturday's visit by Morton after being injured in the midweek CIS Cup defeat by Celtic. Goalkeeper Ludovic Roy is sidelined with a calf injury. Hopefully we can keep our good league form going, as this is a vital game...before we face league leaders Hamilton away next Saturday. Manager Alex Rae will decide if Jan Zemlik plays, as he put in a lot of work against Celtic.

Dundee 1 Celtic 2, Cis Cup, Dens Park, 26/Sept/07

Dundee were very unlucky to go out to Premier Leaugue outfit Celtic, only their goalkeeper kept them in it with three stunning saves. Everyone in a Dark Blue jersey played well, and the fans were right behind our team. So to the game:The Dark Blues changed things about up front, using Jan Zemlik there on his own backed up by a five-man midfield. Paul McHale got his first start of the season, while both Bob Davidson and Derek Lyle dropped to the bench. Celtic made three changes to the team that lost to Hibs on Sunday, with John Kennedy, Evander Sno and Derek Riordan replacing Jean-Joel Perrier-Doumbe, Paul Hartley and Aiden McGeady. The Dens men were hoping Celtic would suffer another setback following their defeats to Hibs and Shakhtar Donetsk. The early exchanges were lively enough, with the first serious effort on goal coming in the eighth minute. Riordan got his boot to a Scott Brown cross, but Craig Samson dived down to his right and saved. The roof nearly came off Dens on 20 minutes when Dundee hit the woodwork twice in quick succession. Zemlik was fouled by John Kennedy a couple of yards outside the box and up stepped Swankie to take the set-piece and test Boruc, with the blunders against Hibs still fresh in his mind. The Dens man’s execution was excellent and beat Boruc all ends up, but the ball struck the post and bounced down into the six-yard area, where Kennedy kicked it away for a corner. With the home fans still on their feet, Freddie Daquin ran over to the flag to take the kick and his cross was head-flicked on to the bar by Zemlik. There was a setback for the Dark Blues minutes later when David Worrel hobbled off injured to be replaced by Danny Griffin. Whether or not the change un- settled the hosts, they fell behind on 27 minutes. Riordan switched over to the right flank to take a free-kick and picked out Scott McDonald. The Australian might have been the smallest man on the park, but he was able to nod home from eight yards to make it 1-0 to Celtic. Zemlik picked up a caution for elbowing Lee Naylor. Dundee almost levelled as the game passed the half-hour mark, as a Kevin McDonald delivery found Gary McKenzie lurking just outside the six-yard box. His header was powerful but Boruc did brilliantly to claw the ball away. Vennegoor of Hesselink conceded another foul just outside his area and earned a booking for stopping Scott Robertson’s mazy run in its tracks. The challenge gave Swankie an opportunity to test Boruc again, and he obliged by striking another sweet shot that the Polish goalie had to tip away. Swankie tried to make it third time lucky with another free-kick a minute before the break, but this time hit the wall. However he stayed involved and when he sent a cross over from the left Zemlik jumped too early and sent his header harmlessly over. The second period caught fire on 51 minutes when Celtic were awarded a soft penalty. Dundee defender Griffin was caught on the wrong side of Riordan and as the former Hibs man edged in front of him the pair crashed to the ground. Referee Iain Brines took a second to think then pointed to the spot, but keeper Samson dived to his left and not only stopped Riordan’s kick but held on to the ball, too. The battle between Swankie and Boruc reached new heights on 58 minutes after Zemlik was fouled yet again at the edge of the box. The Dundee wide man blasted the free-kick through the wall and, while Boruc seemed to be taken by surprise, he still reacted instinctively and pushed the ball over the bar. Despite the home side’s exertions and Swankie’s efforts, it was Celtic who found the net for a second time on 60 minutes. A Gary Caldwell reverse pass picked out Scott McDonald and the striker’s cut-back was stroked in by Vennegoor of Hesselink. But Dundee were not out of it and pulled one back on 71 minutes. A Paul Dixon throw-in made its way into the box and, with Boruc not commanding his area, the ball found its way to Kevin McDonald’s feet, the midfielder cool and composed as he netted from 10 yards. That ensured Celtic had not had a shut-out on the road since last October at Falkirk. The Dens men kept pressing and made an attack-minded substitution with eight minutes left when McHale was replaced by Davidson. Sno could have eased Celtic’s nerves twice late on but fired over then had a close-in shot blocked by Samson’s body. Zemlik was sent off in the dying seconds, picking up a yellow card for sarcastically applauding Brines after being penalised for fouling Caldwell, and Celtic saw the game out.

Stirling Albion 2 Dundee 2, Forthbank Stadium, 22/Sept/07

Stirling slipped to the bottom of the First Division after a thrilling 2-2 draw with Dundee.
The home side took a fifth minute lead when captain Chris Aitken's chip was headed back by Colin Cramb and Steven Bell nodded home. Dundee equalised through Bob Davidson before Albion took the lead again through David McKenna. Alex Rae's side made it 2-2 in the 69th minute when Frederic Daquin's corner was bundled in by Milan Palenik. Two points dropped as Hamilton and St.Johnstone drew, and struggling Dunfermline lost 2-1 at Clyde.

Latest News From Dens Park

For the away game at Stirling Dundee goalkeeper Ludovic Roy is not quite fit enough to be considered for a return after his calf problem, so Craig Samson will get another opportunity to continue his impressive form. Changes could come in attack, where Bob Davidson and Jani Sturm started against Dunfermline last week. By the end of the draw with the Pars, though, both Derek Lyle and Jan Zemlik had been introduced and at least one of them looks set to start. Missing out against his old club will be wide man David O’Brien after he had to have a hernia operation that will sideline him for up to six weeks.

McDonald wins Young Player Of The Month

Dundee midfielder Kevin McDonald has been named young player of the month in the Scottish Football League. The 18-year-old's fine August has helped Dundee into second place in the Division One table and that has now been marked with an Irn Bru award. The Dens Park outfit have also progressed through two rounds of the CIS Insurance Cup. McDonald, who has scored two goals this season, has attracted failed transfer bids from Celtic and Everton.

Dundee 1 Dunfermline 1, Dens Park, 15/Sept/07

Injury-ravaged Dunfermline deservedly held on to take a point against Dundee at Dens Park. Jim Hamilton opened the scoring for the Fifers with 14 minutes gone when he side-footed home a Mark Burchill cross. But Kevin McDonald levelled midway through the first half for the home team after his 25-yard strike was deflected into the net. Dundee were awarded a late penalty when Paul Dixon was tripped in the area, but Derek Lyle was unable to convert. We played well in the second half and could have won it at the end.

Dunfermline Next At Dens

Tickets are going well for the Cis Cup game against Celtic at Dens, meanwhile Ludovic Roy will be fit for the visit of Dunfermline this Saturday.
Paul Dixon is back after Internation duty with Scotlands Under 21's

Celtic at Dens

Celtic will travel to First Division Dundee in the next round of the Cis Cup, the full draw is:
CIS Insurance Cup - third round:
Inverness CT v Gretna,East Fife v Rangers,Falkirk v Dundee United,Dundee v Celtic,Hearts v Dunfermline Athletic,Hamilton Accies v Kilmarnock,Hibernian v Motherwell,Partick Thistle v Aberdeen.

Clyde 1 Dundee 2, Broadwood Stadium, 02/September/07

Dundee took the points against 10-man Clyde after coming from behind in a hard-fought encounter at Broadwood. Bully Wee defender Chris Higgins gave the home side the lead after four minutes when he steered a Steven Masterton corner into the net. Jospeh Cardle was sent-off on his Clyde debut after receiving two yellow cards. Alex Rae's side equalised after 52 minutes through Paul McHale, and Dundee fashioned a winner when David O'Brien scrambled home Freddie Daquin's corner.

Dundee 2 Livingston 2, Cis Cup, 28/08/07

Dundee kept their campaign to regain credibility in KO competition alive with a gritty victory over first division strugglers Livingston. The Dark Blue went into this CIS second round tie with just one cup victory under their belts from five attempts under boss Alex Rae. And twice they had to come from behind against a Livi side they’d defeated on the opening day of the SFL season just to force extra-time. But they edged the penalty shoot-out to secure a place in next Monday’s draw for the last 16. Dundee first found themselves in arrears after only eight minutes, despite the best efforts of Craig Samson.The home keeper had pulled off a brilliant one-handed save from Jason Kennedy after he had worked a 1-2 with Tomas Pesir and unleashed a powerful volley from the edge of the area. However, the resulting corner wasn’t cleared and Scott Mitchell dispatched an unstoppable shot past Samson from 20 yards. The most likely source of an equaliser looked to be livewire Bob Davidson who brought a decent stop out of Marius Liberda and twice fired over. Freddie Daquin also found himself with an opportunity to level things but shot straight at the keeper. Parity was restored, seven minutes from the break, courtesy of Scott Robertson who, in the course of a smashing run, left four players trailing in his wake before squeezing the ball high past Liberda for a goal of real quality. Four minutes into the second period the Dark Blues found themselves chasing an equaliser once again as Livi grabbed a sensational goal in bizarre circumstances. With the visitng bench preparing to replace the limping Steven Craig, Kevin McDonald was dispossessed near the half-way line, Liam Fox whipped in a pinpoint cross and Craig rifled the ball past Samson. Dundee threw on Jani Sturm, Derek Lyle and David O’Brien as they sought a way back and on 85 minutes Fox was harshly adjudged to have handled a bouncing ball inside the area and Lyle levelled from the spot. With only a minute left and Samson rooted to the spot, Kennedy saw a header strike the bar and bounce down onto the line from where David Worrell cleared. What little goalmouth action the additional 30 minutes threw up, involved Gary McKenzie. First, McKenzie was woefully short with a headed passback and Samson had to spare his blushes with a fine one-handed save from Leigh Griffiths, then at the other end he headed over with the goal at his mercy.
During the initial round of spot-kicks, Kevin McDonald’s effort was saved by Liberda while Samson turned Griffith’s pen onto a post. Des McCaffrey and O’Brien then slotted away their kicks before Samson saved from Kennedy. Confusion reigned as jubilant Dundee players, led by Lyle, charged towards their goalie, believing they were through, and the Dens Park PA system blasted out celebratory music. Red faces all round, temporarily at least, until Sturm netted to settle the issue. I don't mind how we beat Livingston.
Late News:
Dens Park pair Kevin McDonald and Paul Dixon have been omitted from the Scotland Under 21 squad for the European Championship qualifiers against Finland and Denmark despite both figuring in the win over the Czech Republic

Dundee 3 Partick Thistle 0, Dens Park, 25/August/07

Dundee struck early to brush aside Partick Thistle and clinch a comfortable win at Dens Park.
Gavin Swankie's glorious 25-yard free-kick started things off in the eighth minute. And once Robert Davidson had nodded in a simple second from a Paul Dixon cross, the result was never in doubt. Kevin McDonald capped a splendid performance with a neat finish and Thistle's misery was complete when Alan Archibald picked up a second booking. A great performance from Dundee, and this season they are looking a good outside bet for the league title.

Latest News From Dundee:Next up is Livingston at home in the Cis Cup. Alex Rae will have 4 strikers to pick from. Young striker Bryan Deasley has went ot on loan to Cowdenbeath, and he scored the only and winning goal against fife rivals Raith Rovers. Dundee expect to have Paul Dixon in the squad to face Livingston despite the defender being sent to hospital struggling for breath on Saturday. Strikers Derek Lyle and Jan Zemlik return from suspension, but defender Craig Sives is still recovering from a hernia operation and will miss out.

Latest From Dens Park

DUNDEE have taken 6ft 5in former Watford, Gray’s Athletic and MK Dons defender Nathan Koo-Boothe on trial. The 22-year-old Jamaican centre-half will spend the next week seeking to win a deal at Dens. With strike pair Derek Lyle and Jan Zemlik both suspended for tomorrow’s visit of Partick Thistle, Slovenian Jani Sturm is set to start.
DUNDEE have taken Arsenal youth team striker Marc Elston on a week’s trial. Elston (18), who chose a career in football over athletics despite clocking 11.2seconds for 100m at the age of 14, has been made available by the Gunners. Elston netted 11 times in 23 appearances for Arsenal’s youth side last term.

Scotland Call Up For Dens Kids

Scotland Under 21 coach Archie Knox has had to draft in four new players to his squad for Tuesday's international against the Czech Republic, after injuries and illness caused several withdrawals. Hearts pair Lee Wallace and Calum Elliot were both unable to join the squad after picking up knocks at the weekend, and today there were three further withdrawals as Kevin McCann of Hibs and David Robertson of Dundee United failed to respond quickly enough to treatment, and Andrew Considine of Aberdeen was unwell. Into the squad have come Scott Cuthbert of Celtic, Tom Scobbie of Falkirk, and Dundee's Paul Dixon and Kevin McDonald. Scotland Under 21s meet the Czech Republic at Falkirk Stadium on Tuesday night, kick-off 7.30 pm, and admission is just £5 for adults, £2 concessions.

St.Johnstone 1 Dundee 1, McDiarmid Park, 18/August/07

Freddie Daquin's deflected equaliser got Dundee off the hook in a hard-fought derby draw at St Johnstone. Saints had taken the lead seconds after the restart when John Stewart latched onto a perfect cross from Paul Sheerin. But Martin Hardie's straight red card for an elbow on Kevin McDonald turned the tide in Dundee's favour. Daquin's speculative effort beat Alan Main from 25 yards but Dundee also ended the game with 10 men when Jan Zemlik was shown a second yellow card. A good point for Dundee, but we could have had all three points today. A great support for Dundee today , just under 3,000 travelled.

Dundee 1 Ross County 2, Dens Park, Challenge Cup, 14/August/07.

Dundee went out of the cup to Second Division side Ross County losing 2-1 at Dens Park. Andy Barrowman scored the opener from the penalty spot in the 12th-minute after Gary MacKenzie brought down Martin Scott inside the area. County edged further ahead two minutes before half-time when Keddie glanced home a header from Derek Adams' corner. Jani Sturm reduced the deficit, but the home side could not find an equaliser and had David O'Brien sent off late on. Dundee who also hit the woodwork three times in the closing minutes, the only positives to take out of the match is that a few of the young players got a run out, and that will do them no harm. Bring on the Perth Saints on Saturday.

Ross County Next At Dens............

Dundee will make changes for theChallenge Cup clash with holders Ross County, likely to feature is Alex Rae himself, with Derek Lyle, Bryan Deasley, Gary McKenzie, Paul McHale to name just a few. Also Alex might play some of the younger players, just to see how they cope in a cup game. But make no mistake it's a game that Dundee want to win. I will miss the game due to work. The game kicks off at 19:30. A report will follow.

Dundee 2 Queen of the South 1, Dens Park, 11/August/07

BobDavidson's double preserved Dundee's 100% record as they beat a poor Queen of the South side. Davidson scored from the penalty spot after 13 minutes following Andy Aitken's needless shove on Jan Zemlik. Queens goalkeeper Jamie MacDonald twice denied Scott Robertson and had a tremendous save from a Zemlik effort. Sean O'Connor headed the equaliser from an Eric Paton cross - but, after a Paul Dixon attempt struck a post, Davidson steered home from Gavin Swankie's chip. A great week for the dark blues. They were not at their best yesterday, but last season they would have dropped points. So a good start and sets up the trip to Perth next week. St.Johnstone drew 2-2 and Dunfermline and Livingston both lost yesterday.

Livi Next in Cis Cup

Dundee will play Livingston at Home in the next round of the Cis Cup, after the draw was made at Easter Road today:Full draw — Motherwell v. Raith Rovers, Queen’s Park v. Hibs, Dundee v. Livingston, Peterhead v. Kilmarnock, Dundee United v. Ross County, Montrose v. Falkirk, Gretna v. Cowdenbeath, Stirling Albion v. Hearts, St. Mirren v. East Fife, Berwick v. Hamilton, Inverness CT. v. Arbroath, Partick v. St. Johnstone. Ties on August. 28/29.

Milan Plays At Last.....................

Milan Palenik finally made his competitive Dundee debut last night, but the defender’s protracted transfer to Scotland could see the Slovakian FA in hot water with FIFA after allegations of a cash-for-clearance scandal . Palenik was signed on a one-year contract in the middle of last month, but a lack of international clearance meant he missed Saturday’s league visit to Livingston and was only able to play against Morton in the CIS Cup when the necessary paperwork arrived from Eastern Europe with just minutes to spare yesterday. Now the Dark Blues, dismayed at the repeated delays in their dealings with the Slovak football authorities, have raised concerns with the SFA, who had already intervened on their behalf over the last week or so. And what have been described as “irregularities” are to be passed on for the world ruling body to give their opinion. Dens Park chief executive Dave MacKinnon was choosing his words carefully today, but the Evening Telegraph understands that, during contact with the Slovakian FA, the club and Palenik’s agents were given the impression clearance would be forthcoming if money changed hands. It is believed sums ranging from £100 to £3000 for a document that can be faxed from one football association to another in a matter of a few minutes were mentioned. That has left Dundee and their player less than impressed, though it has been stressed his former club completed their paperwork promptly and in a normal fashion. FIFA are to be informed. The lengthy delay had little effect on the big central defender, who helped his new team keep a clean sheet against Morton with an impressive individual display. Palenik took over from Gary MacKenzie, who was suffering from a cold.

Dundee 2 Morton 0, Cis Cup, Dens Park, 07/August/07

TWO GOALS early in the second half maintained the Dark Blues’ 100% start to the new campaign and eased them into round two of the CIS Cup last night. Czech attacker Jan Zemlik set Dundee on their way to a relatively straightforward victory with a deflected opener before Gavin Swankie doubled the winning margin. Dundee started five of their summer signings but it was the home-grown pair of Robertson and Kevin McDonald who caught the eye during a low-key opening period.The Dark Blues had the better of things but a combination of some wayward shooting from distance and an inability to capitalise on a series of several decent crossballs kept the scoresheet blank.Within 72 seconds of the restart however, the home side took the lead, albeit in fortuitous circumstances. Ton keeper Lee Robinson might well have had Robertson’s shot from a Freddie Daquin layoff covered, but the ball took a wicked deflection off the heel of Zemlik leaving Robinson stranded and the Czech celebrating his first goal for the club. Dundee had an anxious moment at the other end when Ludovic Roy spilled a Peter Weatherson free-kick and a fairly frantic scramble ensued. But on 52 minutes they effectively killed the tie. Wide man Swankie raced on to a Robertson through ball and into the box. His attempt to square for Jani Sturm was blocked but clinical Swankie buried the rebound in the far corner. Daquin and substitute Derek Lyle (twice) were denied by decent Robinson saves as the Dark Blues attempted to enhance the scoreline, but late on they’d Roy to thank for denying Morton encouragement when he tipped over a powerful Brian Graham effort. The visitors’ Weatherson was booked along with Dundee’s David Worrell.

Morton Next In The Cis Cup.......

Dundee welcome back three players from suspension for the CIS Insurance Cup first-round clash with Morton. Derek Lyle, back-up keeper Craig Samson and player/manager Alex Rae all come back into contention after missing Saturday's win over Livingston. It should be a good close game tonight.Morton will be without injured players Scott McLaughlin, David McGregor and Bobby Linn.

Dundee 2 Livingston 0, Almondvale, 04/August/07

Two goals from Scott Robertson got Dundee's season off to a great start against nine-man Livingston. Robertson fired Dundee in front from 20 yards in the 17th minute before adding his second from close range 13 minutes after half-time. Livi lost their discipline in the second half, with Graham Dorrans sent off for a second booking. Joe Hamill was later dismissed for a professional foul on Dundee winger Freddie Daquin. A great start for the dark blues and puts us top of the league. St.Johnstone drew 3-3 at Queen of the South and Dunfermline lost 2-1 at Hamilton. Scott Robertson's first goal was a peach of a strike from the edge of the box.

Dundee Sign Jani Sturm.

Dundee boss Alex Rae added the final piece to his squad for the new season today when he beat off stiff competition to capture Slovenian Jani Sturm. The 25-year-old striker, signed on a one-year deal with the option of an extension, originally arrived in Scotland a month ago for a trial with city neighbours Dundee United, but, after that didn’t work out, he moved on to a number of other clubs, most recently Morton. His time there led to an offer of a contract and it’s also understood SPL new boys Gretna were showing a firm interest in the proven goalscorer.
All that meant extra satisfaction for Alex when Sturm decided to opt for a dark blue jersey in the coming season. “I’m not exactly sure who else was interested, but I know other clubs were speaking to him and it’s nice to know he wants to come here,” said the Dens manager.
“We are trying to build something here and his decision shows he recognises that. I’m pleased to get him because he’s an intelligent striker who can run in behind defences and that gives us another option to what we already have.” Having seen the player turn out as a trialist for Morton, Alex is satisfied that he is fit enough to be considered for a starting place in Saturday’s First Division opener at Livingston. And, with last season’s top scorer Derek Lyle suspended for the first four games of the season, the new man is set to form an international strike force with Czech Jan Zemlik.

Montrose 2 Dundee 2, Links Park, 28/July/07

Dundee missed a great chance to end their pre-season with a win when a fine second half fight back from Montrose saw the third division side snatch a deserved draw.Goals from Jan Zemlik and Alex Rae appeared to have Dundee on easy street as they dominated the first half - but after a fantastic save from Mark Peat to deny Zemlik early in the second half the home side battled hard to level the scores. Their goals coming from substitute John Maitland and striker John Baird.

Dundee PreSeason Games and News..............

Dundee Sign Striker

Dundee have completed the signing of Czech striker Jan Zemlik. The six foot seven inch forward has linked up at Dens Park after convincing manager Alex Rae of his ability during a two week trial at the club. Zemlik scored a hat-trick in a bounce game on Friday for the Dark Blues and now joins new recruit Frederic Daquin.

Dundee beat Millwall 2-1 at Dens on Saturday thanks to two goals from new striker Jan Zemlik, another czech player played centre half and he will likely be offered a deal by Alex Rae.

Dundee’s Czech contingent doubled today when experienced defender Milan Palenik was signed on a one-year deal after impressing boss Alex Rae in the weekend win over Millwall. And today, Alex confirmed the free agent had been snapped up quickly to add experience and depth to his defensive options. “He looked the part on Saturday. He’s strong and knew his position well — he’ll add experience at the back and extra quality,” he said. And while he was remaining cautious about success in a friendly, the gaffer also didn’t hide his delight with the way new striker Jan Zemlik is settling in. “The big man is a handful for defences and is scoring as well. If that continues we will all be happy with him. However, it’s still early and these are not the games that matter. No-one is getting carried away.” Zemlik is likely to be on duty again when Dundee send a strong team to Arbroath tomorrow night. “I’m leaning towards it being mainly first-team men at Arbroath and we have a closed-door game at Hibs on Wednesday, so everyone should get a run over the two games. “That’s important because we need everyone to get games they need, but it’s also important we keep everyone fit.” Portuguese striker Andre Martins has arrived on trial. He’s trained with Bayern Munich and is also wanted by Partick.

Dundee manager Alex Rae has turned down an all-expenses-paid trip to the Olympic Stadium in Athens a week on Saturday, where the Dens men would have played a game against top European opposition. Meanwhile, Dundee’s pre-season build-up continued last night with a 1-0 win over Arbroath at Gayfield, courtesy of a goal by trialist Andre Martins. The success was marred by the early injury to goalkeeper Ludovic Roy and the sending-off of his replacement Craig Samson for handling outside the box. Left-back Paul Dixon ended up between the sticks for the final few minutes of the match.

Dundee 2 Kilmarnock 2, Dens Park, 21/July/07

IF A manager truly does pass on some of his own characteristics to his players, then it seems Alex Rae has transmitted plenty of his tenacity on to this Dundee team. Against Kilmarnock on Saturday they had to come back from a goal down on two occasions, but did so with aplomb and could quite easily have secured victory over their Premier League opposition. Of course, Rae, who was without towering Czech Jan Zemlik due to injury, would prefer if his players did not need to call upon their powers of recovery too often but he must have been refreshed to see their fighting spirit shine through. Milan Palenik, who signed on a one-year deal last week, won his contract on the back of a flawless performance against Millwall last time out but was given a more testing introduction to Scottish football by Paul di Giacomo, whose quick feet left the Czech flailing inside the box and won Kilmarnock a 19th-minute penalty. Di Giacomo scored from the spot but, like so many times last season, that jolted Dundee into life and encouraged them to produce better. Bob Davidson hit the post with a cracking shot from 18 yards before Derek Lyle, whose influence will be sorely missed in the opening month of the season trough suspension, sent a shot high into the top corner to equalise. Man-of-the-moment Steven Naismith then restored Killie’s lead in 62 minutes but new signing David O’Brien, who already looks a shrewd acquisition from Stirling Albion, secured the draw with a shot at the back post a minute later. Goalkeeper Craig Samson, in for injured captain Ludovic Roy, has watched his new team-mates gel over the past few weeks and is upbeat about the season ahead. He said, “We’ve been preparing well, our training has gone brilliantly and we’re all looking forward to the new season. “Although you can’t read too much into pre-season games, we’re unbeaten in two against good opposition so our confidence is growing all the time. “I had a personal interest in doing well against Killie because I grew up with a lot of their guys and there was a lot of banter flying about last week.
“A couple of them were on the phone telling me they were going to score past me and I got a few texts but, thankfully, we got a draw so the bragging rights are even. “When I signed the manager said he was looking to bring in more players and he’s done that.
“The squad is looking strong. He’s happy with the squad so now it’s going to be up to us to prove his faith in us is justified and that we’re good enough to get back into the SPL.

Dundee 1 Motherwell 2, Dens Park, 24/July/07

DUNDEE’S unbeaten pre-season run was ended as SPL Motherwell ran out winners in a largely low-key friendly at Dens Park.Chances were rare until a spell of six second-half minutes that saw three high-quality strikes.The first came in 69 minutes when one-time Dundee United target Chris Porter hit the back of the net from no more than a yard after a Trevor Molloy cross was knocked down by skipper Jim Paterson.As they had done against top-flight Kilmarnock at the weekend, the Dark Blues roared back and impressive sub David O’Brien netted with a fine 14-yard strike just four minutes later.Little over a minute after that, though, the Steelmen earned victory with a goal fit to win any game—Irishman Molloy blasting home from all of 25 yards from a short free-kick.While disappointed, Dundee manager Alex Rae highlighted the quality of the goal that had beaten his team and overall was not unhappy with the effort put in.
“In the end it’s a wonder strike that beat us, but the boys worked hard and that will have done them some good,” he said. We made changes in the second half to make sure the boys who needed a run-out got some action and I think that made the game a bit disjointed.”
After a quiet start, Dundee had come within a whisker of taking the lead in the 10th minute. A Freddie Daquin corner reached Gary McKenzie in the box and the big defender was unlucky to see his hooked shot hit the post. The home side had enjoyed the better of the early exchanges and a Gavin Swankie cross from the left reached Daquin at the back post. He cut the ball back, but there were no takers. The visitors had taken time to get going and when they pushed forward Martyn Corrigan curled a 20-yard effort a yard wide of Ludovic Roy’s goal.
Dundee started the second half with a new central defensive partnership of Danny Griffin and Craig Sives and with Daquin in a central striking role after O’Brien had replaced Bob Davidson.
If the home team had started the first half stronger, it was their SPL opponents who took the initiative in the opening minutes of the second. Molloy, a 53rd-minute replacement for veteran Phil O’Donnell, might have broken the deadlock when he moved the ball on to his left foot 14 yards from goal, but Dixon’s block deflected the ball behind. otherwell’s Porter then made his way to the edge of the box where his floated finish went yards wide. The big Englishman made amends with his goal and then suddenly the game had come to life, though that turned out to be bad news for the home side.
Dundee—Roy, Worrell, McKenzie (Sives 45), Palenik (Griffin 45), Dixon, Daquin (Zemlik 68), McDonald (McHale 58), Robertson (Rae 71), Swankie, Davidson (O’Brien 45), Lyle. Sub not used—Murray.

Dundee Sign Striker...................

CZECH STRIKER Jan Zemlik’s hat-trick in a bounce game against a team of French trialists finally persuaded DUNDEE boss Alex Rae to sign him. The 6ft 7in frontman had spent two weeks at Dens Park trying to convince Rae to give him a contract. The deal was done on Saturday.

Freddie Signs For The Dee............

FREDDIE DAQUIN wants to show Dunfermline boss Stephen Kenny he was wrong to wreck his Hampden dream by helping Dundee pip the Pars to promotion next season. Daquin, who has joined the Dark Blues on a two-year deal, did not even make the bench when the Fifers faced Celtic in the Scottish Cup final at the national stadium in May. That was despite starting the final SPL match of the season at home to Falkirk just a week earlier. “It was so disappointing not to play in the final as it was such a big occasion,” said the Frenchman. “I had been in the team the week before against Falkirk, so I thought I had a chance. “The thing I didn’t like was the fact it was like do-or-die, with you having to impress. “The last six months were very frustrating because when the new manager came in at Dunfermline he didn’t play me. “Of course, that’s football and it is his choice but it can still be difficult. “Players like Jim O’Brien and Adam Hammill came in and did well and that made it much harder for me to get my place back in the team. “Also, I was injured during the January transfer window when they arrived, which didn’t help. “I always had a good relationship with the fans at Dunfermline and I think they liked me.
“But now I want Dundee to do well and win promotion next season. “I know my level and what I am capable of doing, so now I just want to get playing football regularly.
“Already, I am looking forward to facing Dunfermline on September 15, when it should be a very interesting day.” The 28-year-old met his new teammates at training yesterday and is convinced he has made the right move. “I was very impressed from the first time I spoke to the Dundee gaffer Alex Rae,” said Daquin. “They have been in the SPL before which is where we want to get back to after next season. “The manager seems to be very ambitious and that is what I like about him. “The first division will be very tough next season but I am looking forward to the challenge.” Rae was delighted to have finally snapped up Daquin as he seeks to further bolster his squad. “It has been a bit of a chase but I am just glad we have managed to get Freddie in the end. “He has good attributes such as pace and strength which we have been looking for. “I would still like to get in another four players to take the squad up to 20 and we are working constantly to try to reach that number.” Meanwhile, fans will be able to meet the new recruit at the club’s open day tomorrow, with various events taking place between 11am and 2pm.

New Dundee Signings?

DUNDEE ARE expected to make flying Frenchman Freddie Daquin their latest signing today.
The 28-year-old former Dunfermline winger has agreed terms and the Dark Blues hope to parade him at Dens Park.Daquin, who played with Cannes, Paris St Germain and Rouen in his homeland before moving to the SPL with Hibs, was told by Pars boss Stephen Kenny that he wasn’t in his plans despite having a year left on his contract.But Dundee manager Alex Rae has managed to persuade him to remain in this country and try to help the Dark Blues escape division one next term. Meanwhile, Dundee have appointed United legend Dave Bowman as the club’s new youth coach. The former Tannadice midfielder has been out of work since losing his job at Living-ston, where he was assistant to John Robertson last season, and will assist Gordon Wallace in his role as youth co-ordinator.

Dundee After Paul Ritchie

Dundee will know in the next few days whether or not they are to add another former Dundee United man to their squad for next season. Former Tangerines Danny Griffin, David Worrell and Craig Samson are already on the books and could be joined by experienced defender Paul Ritchie before the week is out. The 31-year-old, whose other clubs have included Hearts, Rangers and Manchester City, has been in discussions with boss Alex Rae about a player-coaching role with the Dark Blues. He is also considering other offers from this country and abroad, but Dundee hope the lure of getting his first formal coaching position could persuade him to head for Dens.
Gary Smith Leaves
A Ritchie arrival would fill the gap left by the departure of veteran centre-half Gary Smith, who last night secured his release from the Dark Blues. The 36-year-old has been linked with a player-coaching role under former Scotland star Colin Hendry at Clyde, though, even if he moves to Broadwood, there is a chance he will hang up his boots

Pre-Season For Dundee Starts Now.....................

There were plenty of fresh faces on view as Dundee kicked off pre-season training today with a tough double session. Goalkeeper Craig Samson was with the squad as he signed the one-year deal agreed with boss Alex Rae at the end of last week, and also meeting their team-mates for the first time were summer signings David Worrell and David O’Brien.
And, as expected, a midfielder and a centre forward from the Czech Republic began trial spells with the Dark Blues. That, and the fact his entire squad were free of injury as they reported back after the summer break, made the manager a happy man.

Dundee Sign Craig Samson.

Dundee are set to complete the signing of goalkeeper Craig Samson in time for him to report for pre-season training with the rest of the squad at Dens Park on Monday. The former Kilmarnock, Dundee United and Ross County man has agreed a one-year deal and should put pen to paper over the weekend. Boss Alex Rae had several options to consider and has opted for the 23-year-old because, he believes, he will provide a strong challenge to Ludovic Roy for the No. 1 jersey next term. “As I’ve said all along, Ludo had a great first year with us and he will start pre-season as No. 1, but I want competition for as many places as possible and Samson should provide that,” said Rae. “He’s still young, but he has good experience and is ambitious. He won’t be coming here thinking he’ll be sitting on the bench, he’ll be fighting for his place and that’s what I want.” Samson joins full-back David Worrell and wide man David O’Brien as new summer arrivals and they are likely to be joined by at least another two signings in the next few weeks.

Norwich Bid For Dixon Turned Down...........

Dundee have rejected an offer from Norwich City for Paul Dixon — but the Dark Blues face a battle to keep their highly-rated full-back this summer. The 20-year-old is well known to Carrow Road assistant boss Jim Duffy, who handed him his debut during his second spell as manager at Dens Park. He and Canaries gaffer Peter Grant are among those who have been monitoring Dixon’s progress and that has led to a bid to take him to the Championship.

That move was confirmed by Dundee chief executive Dave MacKinnon and, while he was quick to stress it had been dismissed, there is no question the club face a struggle to hang on to the defender. For their part, Norwich admitted it was unlikely there would be an immediate upping of the bid, believed to be in the region of £100,000 — less than half his employers’ valuation.

A string of other English clubs are also interested and there have even been suggestions that, here in Scotland, Rangers are also admirers. More attempts to lure him away from the City of Discovery are set to follow. Dixon has only a year of his current Dens deal to run and has stalled on signing an extension. Which might push Dundee towards selling him if offers come in now, rather than face losing him a reduced fee near to or at the end of his contract.

Dundee Sign Two and Plan For Next Season.........

Dundee have completed the signings of former Rotherham United full-back David Worrell and David O'Brien, the winger having left Stirling Albion. Worrell and O'Brien were out of contract and are the first of six summer signings planned by Dundee. O'Brien, 23, leaves after helping Stirling win promotion to Division One. First Division Dundee have also confirmed that manager Alex Rae will receive an increased budget for next season. But chairman Bob Brannan has stressed to the Tayside business community that further cash will have to be raised to balance the budget. Chief executive Dave MacKinnon pointed out that the club is considering developing land for housing. Dundee are looking at developing the Dens Park side of their stadium "with a new South Stand as part of the development". MacKinnon has held initial discussions with a building developer.

Latest From Dens.

Dundee will parade two unnamed signings on Wednesday and promise four other new faces this summer. The First Division club also confirmed that manager Alex Rae would receive an increased budget for next season. But chairman Bob Brannan has stressed to the Tayside business community that further cash will have to be raised to balance the budget. Chief executive Dave MacKinnon pointed out that the club is considering developing land for housing.
Dundee are looking at developing the Dens Park side of their stadium "with a new South Stand as part of the development". MacKinnon has held initial discussions with a building developer.

Latest News From Dens Park.

Dundee have announced details of a further three pre-season friendlies. After welcoming Millwall to Dens Park on Saturday, July 14, the Dark Blues travel to Montrose on Tuesday 17th, host Motherwell on Tuesday 24th and are at Stenhousemuir on the 25th. They are still attempting to fix up home matches on the 21st and 28th against English opposition. And Dundee will either be heading for the Highlands or north-east England for a short training camp early on in the process of building towards next term. Player-manager Alex Rae hopes to unveil an addition to his squad later this week.

Clear Out Starts At Dens.

Dundee have started building for next season by telling Ross Harris and Craig Higgins they will not be offered new contracts at Dens Park. And manager Alex Rae will not bid to keep on-loan trio Jay Shields, Kevin Smith and Robert Campbell at the club. A bounce game was held as well and rumours say that Nathan Lownes impressed and he might get an offer.

Clyde 1 Dundee 1, Broadwood Stadium, 28/April/07.

Clyde and Dundee drew 1-1 at sunny Broadwood on Saturday, and with only the main stand open a few Dundee fans missed the kick-off. We started brightly and Brian Clark missed the target after a great move. But he scored a cracker from the edge of the box withe a great low drive. As we tried to finish the game off Alex Williams shot home to level things up at halftime. The second half was pretty end of the season fair and the only down point was Derek Lyle's dismissal. The striker received a straight red card 14 minutes from time for a tackle on Robert Harris and then appearing to stamp on the defender on the ground. Well l never saw that! So that's it for another season and it was a improvement from last year, hopefully we can bring in the six players we need to make a challenge next season.

Latest From Dens.

Friday: Dundee are to allow frontman Craig O’Reilly to leave Dens Park.The 19-year-old former Raith Rovers striker, who has a year left on his contract, has spent the season on loan to East Fife. Craig is available for a nominal fee,and lower division clubs have been notified.Dundee will be without suspended defender Gary Smith for tomorrow’s final game of the campaign at Clyde but that opens the door for skipper Gary McKenzie to return. Also set for a place in the starting line-up, after completing his one-match ban, is Alex Rae.Meanwhile, former Dundee United keeper Tony Bullock has emerged as a possible signing target for the Dark Blues as they seek someone to challenge Ludovic Roy for the first-team jersey next term.
Wednesday: Good news for Dundee as goalkeeper Ludovic Roy signed a new two-year deal, also committing his future to Dens Park was young midfielder Brian Clark.Manager Alex Rae is also hopeful of adding a few more players for next season, and has arranged for a trial game to take place later this week.The club also revealed season ticket prices for 2007-08 which are:Adult season tickets for existing holders are £240 if bought before 30th June 2007. Senior citizen tickets are £115, Under 18s £90, under 12s £18 and students £94On or after 1st July 2007 Adult season tickets are £250. Senior citizen tickets are £120, Under 18s £95, under 12s £18 and students £99.If you want to retain your existing seat then you should renew before 30th June.Tickets go on sale on Tuesday May 1st 2007.

Dundee 1 Hamilton 0, Dens Park, 21/April/07

Dundee struggled to overcome Hamilton on Saturday but at least we won the game thanks to a controversial penalty converted by Derek Lyle earned Dundee a narrow victory over Hamilton at Dens Park. The pivotal moment came on 62 minutes when referee Crawford Allen ignored Bob Davidson's shove on Alex Neil to allow him to cross. In the scramble that followed David Elebert pulled Kevin McDonald to the ground and Lyle scored from the spot. Dundee defender Gary Smith was later dismissed for an off-the-ball incident involving David Elebert.It was good to see youngster Brian Clark make his first start for the club and he was unlucky not to score in the second half.At least it still gives us a chance to finish third but we need to beat Clyde and hope Hamilton don't win.

Latest News From Dens.

Dundee have received a major fitness boost with the news that midfielder Paul McHale has not torn the medial ligament in his knee. McHale strained the joint in training last week and will still be out for the remaining two games of the season. It means he will be out for a matter of weeks rather than months, and should be fit for the start of preseason training. Dundee will be without player-manger Alex Rae following his dimissal at Partick Thistle last weekend. Dyron Daal has resumed training and, if he does not suffer any reaction to his knee problem, the on-loan striker will feature for the home side. Hamilton go to Dens Park clash knowing that a draw will secure third place in the First Division. Dundee have also slashed admission prices for children to just £1 as a thank you to the fans for their support.

Partick Thistle 2 Dundee 1, Firhill, 14/April/07.

Partick secured their First Division status with a narrow win over 10-man Dundee who had player-coach Alex Rae sent off in the 90th minute. The Jags went in front after 17 minutes when Adam Strachan crashed the ball high into the net from 10 yards. Dundee levelled five minutes later when Derek Lyle scored his 14th goal of the season. The Jags got the winner after 53 minutes when Derek Young fired low past Ludovic Roy.

Injury Blow For McHale.

Dundee midfielder Paul McHale could be facing months on the injury list, with fears that he may have suffered medial ligament damage in his knee. What at first seemed a run-of-the-mill training incident has resulted in a serious problem for the player, who has been a key man for the Dark Blues since joining in January. McHale will be sent to see a specialist next week to discover the extent of the damage, and manager Alex Rae is hoping for a positive outcome. Meanwhile Danny Griffin should play at centre half again, he looked a much better player last week. It will be a tough game against Partick Thistle who are not safe from the drop yet.

Daal Goal Rush Won't Earn Him Dons Deal

Dyron Daal has been told his five goals in four games for Dundee are not enough to guarantee his Aberdeen future. The Dutchman was sent out on loan to Dens Park after struggling to break into the Dons side.He netted twice against Ross County at the weekend to clinch a 3-2 win for the Tayside team and has also produced a match-winning double against Airdrie United the previous weekend having scored on his debut for the Dark Blues against Queen of the South.Jimmy Calderwood is monitoring the 23-year-old striker's contribution to the Dundee cause, but is refusing to get carried away on the back of his player's goal rush.He said: "Obviously I'm getting reports on Dyron's performances and it is great to see him scoring goals for Dundee. We've had positive reports, but seemingly he could have scored 12 goals, never mind five, with the number of chances he has had."As far as next season is concerned, I haven't been able to give Dyron's situation a minute's thought."We have to get our own business out of the way in the SPL before we move on to that."Of course we have to be fair to the player and can't keep him hanging on forever."He has three games to go with Dundee between now and the end of the season and by then we will have to let him know what our plans for him are.
Team News For Firhill.
Paul McHale picked up a knee injury in training yesterday and is struggling to face Partick Thistle. Time will tell if he makes it or not. Gary McKenzie will miss the game due to suspension.

Dundee 3 Ross County 2, Dens Park, 07/April/07.

Paul Dixon returned to the side, and Danny Griffin played center half in place of injured Gary McKenzie. We started well and Dyron Daal scored a double as Dundee sent Ross County tumbling to the foot of the First Division table. Daal raced through to convert after 20 minutes and doubled his tally 12 minutes later when he robbed defender Andy Dowie and executed a neat finish. Sean Higgins hit back with a glorious overhead kick, only for Paul McHale to restore Dundee's two-goal advantage with an 18-yard strike.Dundee held on for the final 16 minutes when Michael Gardyne fired home. A good three points for us, pity the second half was not as good as the first.

LATE NEWS.

Dundee are set to play Millwall at Dens on the 15th of July. I'm on holiday so will miss that one.

Latest News From Dens.

Dundee could add another foreign keeper to their books after a Slovakian trialist impressed boss Alex Rae in a closed-door game this week. The experienced performer, who the Dark Blues are not naming for the time being, did enough in the friendly against Montrose to be added to the list of possibles for next season. Not still interesting him, though, is the English midfielder who had been with Norwich and who also got a game on Tuesday. And Dundee are adopting a “wait-and-see” policy with loan striker Dyron Daal. The Dutchman’s three goals in three games since he started his loan from Aberdeen have seen the Dons hint they will probably be offering him a deal for next season after his amateur contract with them expires in the summer. There has been no concrete offer from Pittodrie, though, and the Dens men believe they still have a chance of landing the big man on a permanent deal if he continues to impress. There are no injury worries for Saturday’s home clash with struggling Ross County. Aberdeen's Jamie Winter is also on trial for a few days. (Picture Above)

Dundee 2 Airdrie 1, Dens Park, 01/April/07

Dundee put behind them a desperate first-half performance to notch their first win in four games, to say the Dark Blues were awful in the opening 45 minutes would be an understatement.But they improved sufficiently to edge out spirited Airdrie in an end-to-end second period.Dundee claimed the spoils thanks to Dyron Daal—who had enough clear-cut chances to have mustered a five-goal haul—netting twice.While that was rough on the relegation-threatened Diamonds, whose showing was worthy of the point that would have left them shy of the play-off spot only on goal difference.Airdrie’s 17th minute opener was a personal disaster for Gary McKenzie. The Dens skipper was caught in possession 25 yards out by Ian Harty and failed to react to the situation, leaving Harty to bear down on Ludovic Roy and net with a composed finish.Taking the lead was no more than the Diamonds deserved. Before netting, Harty had brought a decent save out of Ludovic Roy and David Proctor was thwarted by a timely McKenzie challenge.And they could easily have stretched that advantage with Roy having to claw a Gary Twigg shot round his post.Dundee levelled on 27 minutes, completely against the run of play, when Daal headed home Rae’s cross.Airdrie remained on top, though, and both Harty and Graeme Holmes should have done far better than blaze the ball over from terrific positions.In the early stages of the second half Stuart Taylor evaded the attentions of McKenzie to meet a Steven McDougall cross, but from a tight angle couldn’t put his header away from Roy.Dundee had an opportunity to steal a lead shortly after that when Daal found himself clean through, but he shot straight at Stephen Robertson.McKenzie’s day very nearly went from bad to worse when a Holmes cut-back rebounded off him and was destined to find his own net until Roy came to the rescue.On 56 minutes Dundee edged in front from their first corner of the game, Bob Davidson heading Gavin Swankie’s delivery back across goal for Daal to nod in.And the Dutchman could easily have added to his tally—completely missing the ball after a Smyth mistake allowed Gates’ cross to find him unmarked, then once again shooting straight at Robertson.Airdrie, who’d been denied a penalty when Gary Smith clearly shoved Taylor inside the area, had become decidedly fragile at the back.Going forward, though, they remained a real threat. Substitute Stephen McKeown might have levelled after being picked out by Twigg, but his finish failed to trouble Roy.A Twigg effort with 11 minutes remaining did test the goalie, but he responded by making a terrific save. Despite his side laying siege to the home goal in the closing minutes and being harshly treated by the outcome, Diamonds manager Kenny Black felt the defeat had been largely self-inflicted.Daal and Paul McHale were booked along with Airdrie’s Smyth, Taylor and Neil McGowan. A good three point for us but we made hard work of it. Lets hope we can win the last four game to set up next season.

Dundee Set To Sign Winger.

Dundee are poised to add Stirling Albion winger David O’Brien to their squad. The move is believed to have been agreed and O’Brien should make the switch to Dens in the summer.The left-sided 23-year-old has made over 180 appearances for the Forthbank club since coming through their youth system in season 2001-02.While not commenting directly on the O’Brien interest, Dens manager Alex Rae did reiterate he is desperate to add to his squad in preparation for the 2007-08 campaign.“We need a few new bodies—there’s no doubt about that,” he said.

St.Johnstone 2 Dundee 0, McDiarmid Park, 25/03/07

Dundee played some football in the first half, but the midfield just laid too deep.St Johnstone closed the gap on First Division leaders Gretna to four points with victory over Dundee.The hosts came to life after a lacklustre first half and Jason Scotland fired the opener after a neat turn inside the box. Martin Hardie extended the lead in the 61st minute, latching on to Peter MacDonald's flick-on, blasting his shot into the roof of the net. Despite losing Kevin James to a head injury, Saints held on for the win.Dundee got Paul Dixon sent off in the second half, we were very poor in the second half and it was a good job Ludovic Roy was in good form in the goals.

Latest News From Dens Park

Dundee's board has won control of the Scottish First Division football club after agreeing a deal with its receivers and bank. Chairman Bob Brannan said: "We have control of the shares.
"The financial restructuring agreed with the Bank of Scotland will be concluded in the next few weeks. "And we will then be looking to attract new investors into the club to return Dundee FC to its rightful place in Scottish football." Dundee went into administration in November 2003 and have been in Division One since their relegation in 2005. Directors Peter and Jimmy Marr announced this month that they were to leave the club after nine years of control at Dens Park.
Six of Peter Marr's companies had gone into receivership. A number of offers were received after he and his brother put their majority shareholding up for sale. But Fraser Gray and David Whitehouse, joint receivers of P&J Taverns Ltd, which owns the majority shareholding, accepted the current board's offer. Bidders needed to provide proof of funding and their ability to service the club's financial obligations.
Team news.
Dundee expect top scorer Derek Lyle to be fit to lead the attack. Alex Rae might return with long-term absentee Scott Robertson out, but he will not require surgery and should be fit before the end of the season.

Queen of the South 2 Dundee 2, Palmerstone, 17/March/07

Andy Barrowman's last-minute goal rescued a point for the Doonhamers against Dundee.
Stevie Murray put the home side in front after 13 minutes when he fired home from 15 yards.
Dundee equalised after 31 minutes when Paul Dixon pushed the ball through for on-loan striker Dryon Daal to score. The visitors took the lead after 55 minutes through Bob Davidson, before Barroman's late leveller secured a point for Ian McCall's side. So a point dropped by the dark blues, it is a hard place lately to pick up points.

Late News..........Dundee sign striker.

Dundee this evening signed striker Dyron Daal from Aberdeen on a loan deal until the end of the current season. Formerly with Utrecht, Volendam and Ajax, The 6' 4" Dutchman joins up at Dens after scoring twice in seven appearances for the Dons. Darren did well in his early days at Pittodrie, but broke a hand and struggled to get back into the Aberdeen side. He should make his debut on Saturday at Queen of the South.

English pair want Dixon

English pair Bolton Wanderers and Southampton are set to go head-to-head this summer in a battle to capture Dundee full-back Paul Dixon.The Premiership and Coca-Cola Championship outfits are among a cluster of clubs from down south who have been in regular attendance at Dark Blues games this term. When scouts have turned up, it has been generally accepted the player under the microscope was teenage midfielder Kevin McDonald, but Dixon’s displays at left-back have drawn increasing attention.In particular, he has caught the eye of promotion-chasing Southampton, who are set to lose teenage wonderkid Gareth Bale to Manchester United, Arsenal or Spurs.That would leave a vacancy on the left of their defence and, right now, Dixon is top candidate to fill the void.Former Hearts boss George Burley will have to fight to get his man, however, and Bolton have been putting together their own dossier on Dixon’s strengths and weaknesses. Any bid from St Mary’s is likely to prompt a counter offer from Sam Allardyce at the Reebok Stadium.Today, Dens boss Alex Rae was stressing there have, so far, been no offers and, while he would not be surprised if that situation changes in the summer, he has reiterated he will be fighting to keep his talent.“As I keep saying, we are building here and I do not want to sell any of my best players. It would take an exceptional offer for us to allow any of them to go,” Of more concern to Alex today was an attempt to bring a player in for Saturday’s visit to Queen of the South using the emergency loan system.With top scorer Derek Lyle still a big doubt and Bryan Deasley out for the rest of the season, the manager would like another striker in and has been making moves to that end. Midfielder Scott Robertson will be fit for selection, despite breaking his nose against Gretna on Sunday.

Marrs to end Dundee involment

Marr has been in charge during a turbulent era for DundeeDundee directors Peter and Jimmy Marr are to leave the club after nine years at Dens Park.
In a statement, Dundee confirmed that the brothers have tendered their resignations to the club's board.
"Dundee FC can confirm that Peter and Jimmy Marr have notified the board of their decision to resign as directors of Dundee FC," it read.
"The board would like to put on record their appreciation of the positive contribution they have made."
The Dundee businessmen has witnessed turbulent times at Dens during their time on Tayside, with the club going into administration in November 2003.
Rumours say that an agreement with the club's bankers is due to be finalised which will secure Dundee's future.
The arrangement with the bank will also ensure that the club remains full-time.
Marr, who along with brother Jimmy, bought the club from Canadian businesman Ron Dixon nine years ago, has recently seen six of his companies go into receivership.
Despite the period of administration the Marr brothers are attributed with saving the club from closure

Dundee 0 Gretna 1, Dens Park, 11/March/07

"It's hard following the Dees as you don't which team will turn up. One game it's 11 footballers the next it looks like Billy Smart's circus has turned up. Today it was like watching a clown's car with all the bits falling off. The Gretna goal was a comedy of errors between MacKenzie and Roy. Dundee's penalty was such a poor effort by Davidson, this was a crucial time just before halftime. We had chances in the second half but simply couldn't hit the target. Gretna are no great shakes, but Dundee contrived through schoolboy errors to lose this game.Tell you one thing the centre-back partnership between MacKenzie and Smith doesn't inspire confidence when the rest of the team are playing poorly. They simply cannot cope with the added pressure. Last comments came from the crowd. As I left the ground everyone was saying how this was their last game this season. The news seconds later that MacKenzie won Man of the Match simply brought an ironic cheer. All round a very depressing day as there seems to be nothing left to cheer for the rest of the season." Post by Super Mac.( dundee supporter)
Well that sums up todays game at Dens, we missed Derek Lyle and in one of our few good moves Kevin McDonald should have burst the net, but he missed the goal altogether. We must improve on certain area's of the team.

Late News

It is understood former chief executive and majority share holder Peter Marr is to stand down from the Dens board in the coming weeks. Several companies owned by Marr and his brother Jimmy went into receivership last month.

Livingston 1 Dundee 3, Almondvale, 03/March/07

Dundee scored three times in the second half as they came from behind to stun Livingston at Almondvale. Livingston took the lead thanks to a 50-yard run from Graham Dorrans, who left two defenders in his wake, before slotting the ball past Ludovic Roy.Bob Davidson levelled from the penalty spot after the striker had been foolishly felled by Stuart Golabek. Davidson then volleyed in from a McHale cross, before Kevin McDonald rounded off the scoring with a 20 yard effort. It was a lot better than the last few weeks and we played well in the second half. It's also good that Bob Davidson got his first goals for the club, and my m.o.m was Kevin McDonald who had a great game capped with a fine goal. The only sour bit was the injury to Derek Lyle, but hopefully he will be fit for Sundays home game against Gretna.

Hamilton 1 Dundee 0, New Douglas Park, 24/Feb/07

Dundee lost 1-0 at Hamilton on Saturday, in what was another poor performance we just never got going. Alex Rae was back in the team with Kevin Smith upfront, the Accies were the better side for long spells. Hamilton scored in the first half from a free kick and the Hamilton striker scored with a free header. Into the second half and we struggled to string three passes together and the only two efforts on goal were Paul McHale's shot which just went over the bar, and a Derek Lyle header near the end. Hamilton seemed to be able to put our defence under pressure with ease. Another poor result for the Dark Blues and with Gretna losing we have missed a golden chance to close the gap. Only St.Johnstone can catch Gretna now!

Receivers called in to Marrs' businesses

Dundee F.C. owner Peter Marr moved swiftly today to stress the football club’s future remained secure despite six companies owned by him and his brother Jimmy being forced into receivership. Jobs in some of the Marrs’ other businesses are under threat after Glasgow accountants Krolls were appointed receivers for Justice Homes, Camperdown Construction, Demryan, Call-a-Keg, Marbelles Ltd and P & J Taverns.
P & J Taverns own the brothers’ majority shareholding in the football club, but today the Marrs insisted it would not be affected.
“I have already spoken to the receivers and they have said they have not been appointed to become involved in the club,” said Peter.
“I have been assured of that and this will not effect the day-to-day running of Dundee F.C. or the restructuring deal we are working on with the bank.”
While bankers HBOS are continuing to back plans for the football club, it was a withdrawal of their support for the six companies that led to today’s move.
And Peter Marr admitted the problems stemmed from moves to save the Dark Blues after they went into administration in November 2003 with debts of £23 million.
In order to keep the club afloat, the brothers had to provide personal guarantees running well into seven figures and that has put a huge burden on their other interests. Peter declined to put a figure on the debt, but all the companies now in receivership are in the red.
He, though, remains hopeful the threatened jobs will be saved and the businesses will be sold as going concerns.
“We were speaking to the bank and hoped to sort something out. That has not been possible, but I do not want to be critical of the bank. We have had to close Camperdown Construction’s site on the Perth Road, where we are building town houses, but I think something will be sorted out there.
“The other businesses are still operating normally and, while it is a matter for the receivers, I know they are looking to keep them open.”
Peter did express sympathy for those workers whose futures were now in doubt.
“I feel for them, but I really do believe Krolls should be able to save their jobs,” he said.
A spokesman for Krolls said, “The receivership of P & J Taverns does not affect Dundee Football Club as it is an entirely separate legal entity.”

Dundee 1 Clyde 4, Dens Park, 17/February/07

In what was the biggest shock score line in Scotland last Saturday, Dundee got well beaten by 4 goals to 1. We lost a goal after just 73 seconds, when a weak free kick went to the net, with keeper Ludovic Roy looking a bit slow. The whole defence struggled in the first half, and it was not a surprise when Clyde scored the second on 12 minutes, again a bad goal and it was 3-0 soon after when Bryson scored with a header. And the bully wee made it 4-0 seven minutes from halftime.
Into the second half and at least we did get efforts on target and sub Khalid Hamdaoudi scored 8 minutes from time. But we have to remember that Clyde had won the game in the first 40 minutes. And yes I did stay to the end of the game.

Latest From Dens.

Paul Dixon will miss Saturdays game against Clyde at Dens, due to the booking picked up against St.Johnstone. It looks like Bryan Deasley will need a operation to fix his long term ankle injury.
A statement from the club today about the future: “The directors of Dundee FC continue to work with Bank of Scotland on the restructuring of the club’s finances,” it read.
“This process has taken considerably longer than anticipated by either party, but there is commitment and goodwill from both sides to finalise matters in the shortest possible timeframe, although it is not possible at this time to place a date on the completion of the exercise.
“No insurmountable barriers are foreseen by either party — no further statement is anticipated until the exercise is concluded.”
Once the deal has been done it is expected Dundee will retain some debt, which will allow them to retain ownership of their major asset — Dens Park. Hopefully that will done in the next few months and before the start of next season.
Meanwhile, it was confirmed today that Bryan Deasley will require surgery to cure his ankle problem. The wee striker will undergo an operation tomorrow and won’t see action again this season.

Dundee 2 St.Johnstone 1, Dens Park, 10/Feb/07.

Dundee beat St.Johnstone 2-1 on Saturday to close the gap to 1 point, in the race for second place. In what was a dreadful day of weather Dundee played some excellent football on the deck, with the Perth saints using the long ball for most of the game. Saints had a great chance when they won a penalty in the first half, but their player took the kick too quickly and Ludovic Roy made a good save. I'm glad that he had a few saves before he faced the spot kick. 0-0 at halftime Saints scored on 55 minutes when after we hit the post, a big long ball, and for once Scotland got the better of McKenzie to round Roy to score.
At least we did not let our heads go down and got level when Swankie was pulled back in the box, and Derek Lyle scored with ease( well he made it look easy) Then as both teams going for a winner. Gavin Swankie scored a wonder goal, when he cut inside to chip the saints keeper from maybe 25 yards out, and send the home fans wild. We kept the ball well for the last few minutes to win this tayside derby.
I thought that Gavin Swankie had a great game and captain Paul McHale looks like the steal of the season. There was no failures in the home team and things are looking better for next season.

Latest News From Dens Park.

Dundee have a full squad to pick from for the game of the day in Scotland, when we entertain second place St.Johnstone at Dens Park. I think Alex Rae will make few changes to the side which won at Airdrie, but Bob Davidson might keep his place. I thought he played very well when he came on, and his link up play was excellent.

Police seeking missing sponsor

Police in Fife have confirmed they are hunting for a Kirkcaldy-based man who has disappeared allegedly owing Dundee and Raith Rovers football clubs an estimated £200,000. Ben Stevens (34), a Signatures4u.com director, is also alleged to have taken around £100,000 from his business partner, Carnoustie-born Craig Stewart, and £30,000 from an unnamed former Dundee player for a property deal.
Dundee FC has signed a one-year shirt sponsorship deal said to be worth £50,000 with the sports memorabilia firm, with the company having an option to extend that for a second year.

Dundee 3 Airdrie 0, Excelsior Stadium, 03/02/07

Dundee beat Airdrie 3-0 at the New Excelsior Stadium , in what was likely the best all round performance of the season. We took control of the game quickly and in Paul McHale we have a great looking signing. To the goals and the first one on 36 minutes when Derek Lyle scored with a shot on which the Airdrie keeper made a mess of. Letting the ball through his legs.
Into the second half and we scored twice in a four minute spell. first Scott Robertson played a good one two with Bob Davidson to run on and score, and Derek Lyle was put through to wrap up the game at 3-0.
A good days work and the signs are good for next season on this display. It also puts us up to third in the league and sets up Saturday's home game against second place St.Johnstone.

Craig Signs and Jay is Staying.................

Dundee have signed Montrose centre half Craig Higgins, the 21 year old started his career at Aberdeen and played for Stranraer last season. Also good news in Jay Sheilds is staying until the end of the season. Likely to leave tonight is captain Bobby Mann who is set to sign for Peterhead.

New signing Khalid Hamdaoui turned on the style as a Dundee side made up of youngsters bolstered by four trialists came from two down to draw 3-3 with a full strength home side in a closed door match at Stenhousemuir. Hamdaoui scored a brace, and was also involved in Dundee's other goal, scored by Bryan Deasley, the Dutchman also hit the post twice.

Ross County 0 Dundee 0, Victoria Park, 27/Jan/07 and Latest News.

Dundee returned from Dingwall with a hard-won point after a 0-0 draw, in a game which had few chances.Bob Davidson had the best chance for the visitors when he was put through on County keeper Craig Samson but the former Ranger shot wide.Best for Dundee on the day was Gary McKenzie.Dutch trialist Khalid Hamdouia was introduced as a second half substitute.

Dundee have signed Khalid Hamdaoui, the Dutchman having made a good impression in training and during a twenty minute substitute appearance as a trialist at Dingwall on Saturday. 25 year old Hamdaoui has signed until the end of the current season. He'll take part in a closed door match away from Dens on Tuesday evening and hoping to join him in earning a deal at Dens will be three other trialists, Togo international Didier Paass and Ghanaian Akwasi Okyere and another, as yet unnamed player.Ross Harris has joined Bobby Mann in asking for a transfer but although there's been interest in the players there's been no firm movement from other clubs and both players will remain available for selection while on Dundee's books.

Two More Trialists.

Dundee have Didier Paass on trial this week, the winger has been playing in Germany. Also former Ajax youngster Khalid Hamdaoui will arrive later in the week. Meanwhile Bobby Mann has been talking to two clubs, one it Hamilton and maybe SPL club (Dunfermline?)
Dundee are trying to fix up a friendly for the early part of next week so that manager Alex Rae can watch on-trial pair Khalid Hamdaoui and Didier Paass in match action. both have done well in training.Meanwhile, transfer-listed Dark Blues skipper Bobby Mann has turned down Hamilton Accies.
Dundee have a full squad to pick from for Saturday's game at Ross County, manager Alex Rae will have a few decisions to make.

Dundee 1 Queen of the South 0, Dens Park, 20/Jan/07

Dundee made it five wins in a row at Dens after winning 1 nil,the home record is now very good and if the away record was better we would be putting pressure on Gretna. It was also good that the three new signing all done well. Midfielder Paul McHale caught the eye and the two strikers will get better the more games they play. Derek Lyle scored the only goal just after halftime heading home a great Gavin Swankie cross, and he should have got his second but missed a sitter from 6 yards out. It was a good performance and one which we can build on.

Bobby Mann Asks For Tranfer.

Club Captain Bobby Mann has asked for a transfer and the club have granted his wish. He has been in and out of the team since Gary McKenzie regained his fitness. Rumour says he might be on his way to Peterhead, who are about to go fulltime.
Dundee will play Airdrie on Saturday 3rd of February, the game was called off last weekend due to a waterlogged pitch. Meanwhile Dundee have announced that Callum Macdonald and Graham Hay have been released from their contracts. Macdonald, who has recently been on loan at Peterhead, has joined The Blue Toon on a permanent deal.

Queen of the South 3 Dundee 3,aet (qos win 4-2 on pens) 16/Jan/07

Dundee were knocked out of the Scottish Cup last night at Palmerstone , the game ended 3-3 after extra time and The Doomhammers won 4-2 on penalties. Teamwise Bobby Mann was left on the bench along side Kevin McDonald. I missed the game due to my work So to the game: Dundee had fallen behind to a goal from Stephen Dobbie just before half time but rallied to equalise through Derek Lyle, before the same home player hit the target again, Deasley pulled Dundee level in 83 minutes. It looked all over when Sean O'Connor put the home side back in front with four minutes left but Lyle forced the ball home two minutes later to scenes of joy from the travelling fans. Onto the penalties, Paul Burns and Bobby Mann scored before Ludovic Roy saved Eric Paton's spot-kick. Derek Lyle then hit the post to level things up. Jim Thomson put Queens 2-1 ahead in the shoot out before Gary Smith's effort was saved by Corr. The attempts by Willie Gibson and Dundee's Paul Dixon were successful, leaving Neil Scally with the task of scoring to put his side into the 4th Round, where they will play Cowdenbeath at home.What I find strange is only one striker took a penalty, otherwise it was all defenders.

Deasley's New Deal and Cup Replay News.

Good news for Dundee fans the club has signed Bryan Deasley until June 2009, he had 18 month of his current deal left, but has added another year and on a better contract.
Newly fixed up Deasley will be back in the squad for tomorrow night’s Scottish Cup replay at QOS after recovering from hamstring trouble. And he will be joined on the trip to the borders by Kevin McDonald. He is over a groin problem. New signings Paul McHale, Kevin Smith and Rangers kid Bob Davidson are ineligible, but Gary Smith will be back in the squad now he’s free from suspension.