Queen of the South 0 Dundee 1, Palmerstone, First Division, 27/Dec/08.

Dundee looked the more sure-footed against out-of-sorts Queens. It came as little surprise when the visitors seized the initiative after half an hour through Colin McMenamin as the striker pounced from a couple of yards out to force home David O'Brien's low strike from the angle of the box. Dundee were visibly buoyed and at times were allowed to stroke the ball about at their leisure as the home support turned on the Queens players. Stephen Dobbie tried to haul the hosts back into it with a couple of long-range shots which just missed the target. But it was Dundee who should have extended their lead just before the interval, only for O'Brien to shoot straight at Queens keeper Bryn Halliwell from 14 yards.Queens emerged a livelier outfit after the break. Dobbie went close again when he was just pipped to a through ball by Dundee keeper Rab Douglas, but the visitors remained a live threat on the break and Andrew Shinnie should have doubled their lead just after the hour when he ran clear on goal and rolled his shot past the post.Queens rallied towards the end, but an equaliser wouldn't have provided a fair reflection.
Dundee: Douglas, Malone, Cowan, McKeown, Lauchlan, Paton, Shinnie, Posniak, Daquin (McHale 76), O'Brien, McMenamin (Gilhaney 89).Subs Not Used: Roy, Williams, Deasley.
Booked: Cowan, McKeown.
Att: 2,616
Ref: E Smith
A big win for Dundee, but this weekend's game against Dunfermline is really important. We must win this, and I don't care how we do it!

Dundee 0 Partick Thistle 0, Dens Park,First Division, 20/December/08

Dundee created two fantastic early chances but, in keeping with their luck in front of goal this season, neither were capitalised on. The first certainly should have been, as Bryan Deasley met David O'Brien's cutback 16 yards out, but he fired straight at goalkeeper Jon Tuffey. No blame could be apportioned for the second, though, as Mikael Antoine-Curierslammed a shot on target from 20 yards. Partick soon emerged as a force, though, and could have taken the lead on 12 minutes when Liam Buchanan rose inside the penalty area, but he directed his header wide.Buchanan was afforded another free header on 50 minutes when Simon Donnelly picked him out with a free kick. His header looked destined for the net until Jim Lauchlan got in to nod over his own bar.Partick defender Kevin McKinlay almost scored an own goal only seconds later when he looked set to bundle the ball in but managed to change his feet just in time, instead knocking the ball just wide. Douglas pulled off a sensational double save on 63 minutes to keep Partick out. A poor performance overall, and now we must start winning games. If it was not for Rab Douglas we would have dropped all 3 points.
Dundee: Douglas, Williams (Daquin 71), Malone (Forsyth 86), McHale, McKeown, Lauchlan, Shinnie, Posniak, Antoine-Curier, Deasley (McMenamin 71), O'Brien. Subs Not Used: Roy, Gilhaney.
Att: 3,569
Ref: C Thomson
MoM: Rab Douglas.

Clyde 1 Dundee 0, Broadwood Stadium, First Division, 13/Dec/08

Clyde recorded a narrow win over Dundee in a match which both sides finished with 10 men. Following a scoreless first half, Clyde substitute Scott Gemmill set up Willie McLaren to score the winning goal in the 66th minute. Gemmill was sent off two minutes later after receiving two yellow cards in quick succession. Darren Young was red carded for the visitors four minutes from the end for a professional foul on Alan Trouten.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton (Cowan 78), MacKenzie, McKeown, Malone, Shinnie, Posniak, McHale, O'Brien (Young 83), Davidson (McMenamin 72), Deasley.Subs Not Used: Lauchlan, Roy.
Booked: Shinnie.
Att: 1,176
Ref: C Murray
A bad result for the club, with St.Johnstone getting a last minute winner, the gap is now 12 points. We can't affort to lose many more game now, and must go on a run of wins to get back in the pack.

Lastest News From Dens Park..................

Dundee will play Celtic at parkhead in the 3rd round of the Scottish Cup, the game will be played on the 10th of January 2009.

Saturdays game against Livingston has been called off, due to a frozen pitch. Livi have not used their undersoil heating. The will will be played on Wednesday night.

Kyle Benedictus is the IRN BRU Phenomenal Young Player of the Month for November. The youngster who made his debut and a further two appearances during the month before picking up a calf injury which has sidelined him for a month paid tribute to team-mate Jim Lauchlan for his help in settling into the first team squad "He’s been brilliant with me in training and is talking me through every day" said Kyle "We train together and he’s taken me step-by-step, telling me where to stand and how to defend in certain positions. He’s been a constant source of encouragement and I think working closely with him in training can only make me a better player." 

Jocky Scott has joined youngster Kyle Benedictus picking up an award for the month of November. Jocky has been awarded the IRN BRU Phenomenal Manager of the Month only a few days after Kyle was chosen as the Young Player of the Month. He only took over the club for his third spell in charge two days before the month started and was thrown into the deep end with a game against Airdrie United on the 1st. Since then he has guided Dundee to four games unbeaten. Meanwhile the game against Livi has been called off again, after a pitch inspection at 2pm. No new date has been arranged.

Dundee 1 St.Johnstone 1, Dens Park, First Division, 29/Nov/08

TWO managers at contrasting ends of the career spectrum pitted their wits against each other in a pulsating Tayside derby and emerged with honours even. Derek McInnes marked 12 months in charge at Perth with a draw to stretch St Johnstone's unbeaten sequence to 10 matches and extend their advantage to four points at the top of the table. But old hand Jocky Scott, clearly relishing his return to Dens Park, ensured his youthful rival's nerves were frayed as the Dark Blues attempted a courageous second half salvage job, having slipped behind to a 28th minute goal dispatched by Stevie Milne, a striker who was once lauded by home fans. Fearful of trailing 11 points off the pace being set by St Johnstone and inspired by Scott's half-time input, Dundee dominated the second period and roused their support in a stadium hosting its biggest crowd of the season.They were good value for a 74th minute equaliser dispatched neatly by Mickael Antoine-Curier, who broke off tiring defender Kevin James to plant a low shot past keeper Alan Main.McInnes raised eyebrows among travelling supporters when he restored fragile club captain James to the backline after a three-month absence, with former Chelsea midfielder Jody Morris making his first start of a campaign undermined by a hamstring ailment.Scott opted to leave Andrew Shinnie, a loan recruit from Rangers, on the bench while Gary McKenzie returned to central defence.While the diminutive Morris, whose CV includes Champions League credits, snapped into tackles, clearly intent on making up for time whiled away on a treatment tables, he tired as the game wore on.Robert Douglas plucked a rising 20-yard Kevin Moon volley from the top corner in the 12th minute and the Dark Blues relied on the pace of Brian Deasley to stretch Saints on the counter attack, with James fortunate to escape a caution when his elongated limbs sent the striker crashing to the turf.Seconds before the Perth side took a 28th minute lead, Main, fast approaching his 41st birthday, proved sprightly to handle a testing Antione-Curier header low at the post.His hoisted upfield clearance was cheekily dummied by intended target Derek Holmes, allowing Liam Craig to steal in behind the Dundee rearguard. He played in Stevie Milne and the one-time Dens favourite buried a close range shot into the corner of the net.Dundee almost snatched an equaliser seconds before the interval but Main was a match for Chris Pozniak's low snapshot. But in contrast to the first 45 minutes, Dundee swarmed forward and the Perth side lost much of their guile when Morris departed in the 69th minute.Dundee had two penalty claims dismissed by referee Brian Winter as pressure built on the visitors' defence. But they finally got the ball in the visitors' net on 74 minutes when Antoine-Curier turned home David O'Brien's cross. Saints, however, were denied a late winner by keeper Douglas as Milne slammed a shot towards the target. Antoine-Curier should have scored in stoppage time, but lacked the composure to convert Paul McHale's subtle pass.

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, Williams (McHale 61), MacKenzie, McKeown, Daquin (Shinnie 55), Posniak, Antoine-Curier, Deasley, O'Brien. Subs Not Used: Lauchlan, Davidson, Roy.
Att: 6,537
Ref: B Winter (Scotland).

Dave McKinnon Leaves Dens Park.............

Dundee chief executive Dave MacKinnon has confirmed his resignation and will leave Dens Park at the end of November. MacKinnon has been in the role for two and a half years. Last month, Jocky Scott returned as manager at Dundee for the third time and MacKinnon is confident that the First Division club is in good hands. With the appointment of Jocky Scott, the board now have someone with the experience, contacts and knowledge to take on the running of all football related matters.

Deal For Young Kyle, And Shinnie Joins On Loan..

Dundee manager Jocky Scott has rewarded teenage defender Kyle Benedictus with a new contract after his promotion to the top team. The 16-year-old has played in three matches since Scott took over at the end of October. It will stop other clubs from stealing him, and gives everyone at the club a lift. Hopefully his injury is not too bad and is back in a few weeks.

Meanwhile Rangers reserve midfielder Andrew Shinnie (below)is to join Dundee on a loan deal until January. The 19-year-old made two first team appearances for the Ibrox club last year, both as a late substitute. And Shinnie was captain of Rangers' Under-19 side that won the league and cup double last season. A good boost for the midfield, and looks like he could add some goals. Andy will arrive this Monday for training. Colin McMenamin has joined in for some ball work in training , and will step it up next week. We have missed him over the last few games. Things are looking up and the squad are getting back to full strength.

Dundee 2 Queen of the South 0, Dens Park, First Division, 15/November/08

Dundee knew they could win from the outset and did so with goals from Eric Paton, against his former team, and Bryan Deasley. It may have been different if Steven Tosh had opened the scoring after eight minutes when Sean O'Connor found him with a low cross but the evergreen midfielder knocked his shot beyond the post from a matter of yards. Kyle Benedictus, playing his third game at the age of 16, almost scored four minutes later when he connected with Freddy Daquin's corner but the ball rebounded back off the crossbar. Dundee had to replace Benedictus early in the second half after the youngster slumped to the turf with a serious-looking calf problem. Jim Lauchlan, who has been injured since the summer, came on to make his debut. The hosts went ahead on 64 minutes following appeals for a penalty after Pozniak was fouled on the edge of the area. Paton stepped up to curl the free-kick over the wall and into net. Eleven minutes from time Mickael Antoine-Curier laid the ball in perfectly for Deasley, who slammed a shot home from close range to seal the points.

Dundee - Douglas, Paton, Malone, McKeown, Benedictus, Williams, Pozniak, Daquin, Curier, Deasley, O'Brien Subs – Gilhaney, Dodds, Davidson, Roy.
Referee – Dougie McDonald
Attendance - 3,630

A massive result and makes the next game at home against St.Johnstone vital, cause it will be one we need to win to cut the gap to 5 points.
My man of the Match: Chris Pozniak

Dunfermline Ath 0 Dundee 1, First Division, East End Park, 08/Nov/08

Dundee started brightly enough, striker Bryan Deasley working his way into the Pars' penalty box only to be thwarted by a last-gasp challenge from Woods. The ball then broke to David O'Brien who got in his shot only to see it blocked by Greg Shields. Dunfermline, however, were robbed of the lead in the 13th minute.A Kevin Harper corner from the right was delivered into the path of Stephen Glass and the midfielder let fly with a left foot drive from 20 yards out which smacked off the post with former Celtic goalkeeper Rab Douglas beaten.Second later, Harper took another corner from the right, which was met perfectly by the boot of Glass and fairly whistled by the Douglas' left-hand post.Dunfermline were enjoying the majority of the play and there was a further anxious moment for Dundee's defence when Irish striker Andy Kirk's free kick just outside the box came off the Dens rearguard wall and quick-as-a-flash, Woods pounced only to see his net bound shot pushed away by Douglas.In a clever down on the right. Harper found Nicky Phinn and the midfielder sent in an inviting ball for Kirk, but it fell awkwardly and he could only drill his effort wide of the target.It was proving a hard day at the office for Dundee with Mickael Antoine-Curier and the smaller figure of Deasley unable to get the service required to trouble Dunfermline goalkeeper Paul Gallacher although the team were defending resolutely.The second half started with a thumping clash of heads involving Eddie Malone and Harper although, thankfully, it turned out to be nothing serious.Dundee fans appealed for a penalty for handball after ex-Dunfermline player Freddie Daquin's corner came off Dunfermline skipper Scott Wilson, but referee Stevie O'Reilly was having none of it.On the hour mark, Dunfermline front man Graham Bayne knocked the ball down for Kirk but, under close scrutiny from Kyle Benedictus, his scrambled drive went over the top.The Fifers made their first change, Scott Muirhead coming on for Austin McCann, and the move almost paid instant dividends as a left foot drive from Kirk looked destined for the corner of the net until Douglas somehow got his hand to the ball. The home supporters were now sensing the all-important breakthrough although Dundee continued to stand firm against a determined attack.Then, in the 68th minute, Dunfermline were left reeling when Dundee hit them with a sucker-punch goal. Deasley threaded the ball through to Antoine-Curier who found himself in the clear and he made the most of the opportunity, running through before cooly slotting the ball past Gallacher. In fact Antoine-Curier should have made it 2-0 in injury time , when he rounded Gallagher in the pars goal, but was forced too wide and his pass was put wide by Bob Davidson. But a massive 3 points for the Dark Blues..

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, Williams, Benedictus, McKeown, Daquin, Posniak, Antoine-Curier, Deasley (Davidson 82), O'Brien. Subs Not Used: Lauchlan, Mearns, Gilhaney, Roy.
Booked: Paton.
Att: 3,506
Ref: S O'Reilly

Farningham And Smith back at Dens Park....

Dundee manager Jocky Scott, back at Dens Park, has appointed Ray Farningham as his assistant. Farningham was previously assistant to Jim Duffy at Dens Park. He has been out of football since losing his job as international scout with Gretna when the Borders club went into administration. Jocky Scott's first game in charge of Dundee ended in a 1-1 draw to Airdrie. Meanwhile, former club captain Barry Smith also makes a return to Dens Park after leaving the club in May 2006. Smith, who moved from Celtic to Dundee in 1995, joins Jocky Scott's backroom team as head of Youth Development. He will replace Paul Ritchie who has left the club.

Dundee 1 Airdrie Und 1, Dens Park, First Division, 01/November/08

JOCKY SCOTT was greeted like a returning hero when he walked out at Dens Park for his third spell as manager yesterday but Airdrie prevented the veteran manager from a fairytale start to this latest chapter of his career. A goal from Simon Lynch after 11 minutes gave the Diamonds the lead and they could have scored another four had it not been for striker Paul Di Giacomo's series of misses. But they could not manage to get the ball into the net and a half-time chat from manager Scott pumped Dundee up for the second half, a 45 minutes in which they showed battling qualities sorely lacking in recent weeks. Mickael Antoine-Curier grabbed the equaliser on 66 minutes, showing his new boss that there is something to work with at Dens. Scott pulled a few pre-match selection surprises. Kyle Benedictus, a 16-year-old defender, was drafted in from the youth set-up while ex-Hearts player Eddie Mearns came in for his first start. Bryan Deasley was also given a rare start in attack alongside Antoine-Curier. Benedictus was lucky that his first stint in top-team football was not marred by conceding a penalty kick after just four minutes when, having misjudged a bounce, he appeared to bundle into the back of Lynch inside the box. With even Dundee's players expecting referee Chris Boyle to award a penalty kick, the official awarded a free-kick the other way. Dundee were equally fortunate on nine minutes when a cross which evaded Rab Douglas cracked off the bar but fell perfectly for Di Giacomo. A goal looked a certainty but he somehow nodded over from two yards. Dundee's luck did not hold, though, and they eventually fell behind on 11 minutes to a stunning goal from Lynch. The Dark Blues failed to clear their lines, allowing a cross from the left to reach the striker at the back post and he dispatched a sensational half-volley into the top corner from 10 yards. Scott's side almost equalised on 25 minutes when, following Darren Williams' header into the box, Craig McKeown looked to have beaten Stephen Robertson but the keeper plucked the ball away with one hand. The danger was not averted, though, as it trundled out to Antoine-Curier who, in turn, poked it back in but just as the ball looked set to squirm over the line, Airdrie's defence managed to boot clear. Airdrie should have punished Dundee just before the interval when a neat interchange between Lynch and Di Giacomo gave the latter a sight of goal at the back post. However, he snatched at his effort, with McKeown bearing down on him, sending it flashing past the post. Lynch forced Douglas into a save only 60 seconds later, playing on the shoulder of Benedictus before trying to lob the keeper but he got a hand to it. Dundee should have made more of a dead ball on the edge of the area, after Kevin McDonald fouled Mearns, but Eddie Malone slapped the free-kick off the defensive wall. Mearns set up a great chance for Antoine-Curier on 60 minutes but the striker couldn't edge in ahead of a defender to meet the cross. He atoned for that on 66 minutes, though, as Dundee ground out the equaliser. A header into the penalty area from McKeown was intelligently left by Deasley and it ran through for Antoine-Curier, who lashed a shot beyond Robertson. The striker had another chance at the end but could not beat Robertson to Mearns' through ball and watched the keeper gobble the ball up.
Dundee: Douglas, Posniak, Malone, McKeown, Benedictus, Williams, Daquin (Davidson 78), Mearns, Antoine-Curier, Deasley (Gilhaney 79), O'Brien. Subs Not Used: Roy, Lauchlan, Manzie.
Att: 3,456
Ref: C Boyle
A good start for Jocky Scott, A much better second half performance with Dunfermline, Queen of the South and St.Johnstone in the next 3 games, it will make or break our season.

Welcome Home Jocky...................

Jocky Scott has become Dundee manager for a third time, with chairman Bob Brannan praising the 60-year-old's hunger for the job. "I have seldom met anyone with greater desire to do a particular job than Jocky has to be the manager of Dundee FC," Brannan told BBC Sport. "For him, the club is unfinished business and that is a feeling that is clearly shared by many of our fans." Scott was sacked in 2000 with Dundee fifth in the Scottish Premier League. It was their highest-ever finish in the SPL, but the then owners of the club were not happy with the style of play being adopted and imported the big-spending Ivano Bonetti. "Despite the manner in which his last stint at the club ended, he has never stopped believing in Dundee FC and, in turn, the board believe in Jocky," said Brannan. "That is why he is unquestionably the man for us." I hope that, before I leave here again, Dundee are in the Premier League. Brannan said that Scott's reputation for being an outstanding coach, tactician and organiser, as well as having a "remarkable" network of contacts at the highest levels of football, made him the outstanding candidate, with up to 90% of supporters backing the appointment. Between his two spells at Dens Park, Scott had periods in charge of Aberdeen, Dunfermline Athletic and Arbroath, plus a caretaker spell with Hibernian. And, after leaving Dens in 2000, he managed Notts County and Raith Rovers, was caretaker at Plymouth Argyle, reserve team coach at Sunderland and assistant with Danish outfit Viborg. But Scott feared he might never have another opportunity to be a manager. "I've been trying for a least two years to get back into the game in Scotland," he said. "Everybody seems to think it's a young man's game these days, to the detriment of experience. But I've still got faith in my ability. "It has been a long time coming since the last time at Dundee, but I am looking forward to the challenge. "It left a bitter taste because I thought I had done well the last time and established the club in the Premier League. "Dundee Football Club should be in the Premier League and I hope that, before I leave here again, we are in the Premier League." The First Division club have been searching for a new boss since sacking Alex Rae earlier this month after going 10 games without a win and dropping to ninth in the table. Rae's assistant, David Farrell, took charge of the first-team for Saturday's 2-0 defeat by Morton but has now also left the club. Scott is expected to form his backroom team within a week, with another former Dundee player, Ray Farningham, who had a spell as manager of Forfar Athletic, expected to be one of them. Returning to Dens renews Scott's 40-year association with the club he graced as a midfielder.
I'm happy with Jocky Scott's return to Dens, but it will be a lot of hard work to turn us around. Jocky Scott will do this I have no worries about that!!!! 

Jocky Scott Set To Return?

Dundee are set to appoint Jocky Scott as manager for the third time. The Irn-Bru First Division club have called a press conference for 2.30pm, where it is expected they will unveil the former Dens Park striker.Scott will replace Alex Rae who was sacked after Dundee picked up 12 points from their opening 10 league games.The 60-year-old was on a shortlist of five or six candidates, but Dundee were foiled in their attempts to speak to three employed managers. Queen of the South and Brechin denied them permission to speak to Gordon Chisholm and Michael O'Neill respectively, while Kenny Black pledged his future to Airdrie.

5 Years Ago ..Lost it Now...

The Last Time the Dee's Were Second Bottom...In December!!!!!

We Got Promoted..................

Just to Cheer Us Dee's Up....

Can You Spot Me in The Away End?......

Morton 2 Dundee 0, Cappielow, First Division, 25/October/08

MORTON beat both the elements and a Dundee side who were not just lacking a manager, but lacked fight, determination and adventure and are quickly heading for a winter of discontent.The conditions were always likely to be paramount and twice in the space of a minute Dundee's Freddie Daquin almost scored direct from corner kicks. In 15 minutes the wind-assisted kick curled the ball viciously and Allan Jenkins did well to clear off the line on the near post. The return kick threatened in similar fashion and this time Jenkins headed off the line.When the deadlock was broken in 26 minutes it was through a piece of sublime opportunism. Dundee midfielder Darren Williams was dispossessed by James Grady who ran through, Robert Douglas raced from goal to block his shot at the edge of the area, but Peter Weatherson kept his cool and followed up to brilliantly curl the loose ball into the net from 25 yards.Grady should have doubled 'Ton's lead in 34 minutes when Jim McAlister ripped open the Dundee defence, but the veteran striker shot wide. Five minutes later Douglas made a terrific near-post block from Kevin Finlayson's 12-yard volley, as Morton threatened to overrun hapless Dundee.Morton deservedly got a second in 59 minutes. Finlayson floated a through-ball for Grady and his chip was handled by Craig McKeown. Ryan McGuffie lashed home the spot kick for his sixth goal of the season.

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, Dodds, McKeown, Williams, Daquin (Gilhaney 70), Posniak, Davidson, Antoine-Curier, O'Brien (Mearns 86). Subs Not Used: Roy, Deasley, Benedictus.
Booked: McKeown.
Att: 1,741
Ref: C Thomson

The gap is nine points now, I'm glad that I missed the game due to work, Enough Said....

New Striker..For Morton Game?

DUNDEE may pitch trialist Fabiano Vignarolia in against Morton tomorrow. The Italian striker is a free agent and has been training with Kilmarnock in the past week but Rugby Park manager Jim Jefferies has been unable to see him in a game, as SPL rules forbid anyone who requires international clearance being used as a trialist, even in reserve games.With Dundee badly hit by injury, Jefferies will let him play for the Dark Blues so he can have him watched in action. Vignarolia, 32, has played for Parma, Lazio and Bologna.Stand-in Dundee manager Davie Farrell said: "The guy is a very good player and comes with an impressive pedigree from his time in Italy. He's not fully fit but he's technically very good so we'll add him to the squad for Cappielow." Farrell will be in the dugout following the sacking of Alex Rae on Monday.

Latest From Dens Park..........

DUNDEE have invited applications for the vacant manager's position at Dens Park following the departure of Alex Rae and will have a board meeting tomorrow to discuss likely candidates. Former Dens Park captain Barry Smith is a front-runner and could be handed the job alongside a more experienced figure like Ray Farningham. Smith is back in Scotland following a spell in Icelandic football with FC Valur and is known to want a move into coaching. The 34-year-old, who made over 300 appearances for the club, is viewed by fans as a club legend and, given the massive turnover in playing personnel since he left two years ago – only Bryan Deasley remains – he could walk into the job fresh. Smith was handed the reigns for two games in the wake of Alan Kernaghan's sacking in 2006 and remains a popular figure in the Dens boardroom. Farningham is highly regarded for overseeing a youth development programme which brought through the likes of Lee Wilkie, Gavin Rae, Steven Milne, Derek Soutar, Scott Robertson, Paul Dixon and Kevin McDonald. The ex-Forfar manager would add experience to a Smith ticket and the pair would be a popular choice among supporters. Queen of the South manager Gordon Chisholm is another who is strongly fancied. Airdrie United's Kenny Black and Steven Frail are also likely to be under consideration at Dens Park.

Dundee Sack Alex Rae

Alex Rae has been sacked as manager of Dundee after a disappointing start to their First Division promotion bid. The former Rangers, Sunderland and Wolves midfielder was relieved of his duties after Saturday's 2-1 defeat at home to struggling Ross County. Rae, 39, had lost support in the boardroom but was unhappy at the summer sale of top players like Kevin McDonald, who was sold to Burnley. Dundee are third bottom of Division One but remain just six points off the top. Assistant manager David Farrell will take charge of the first-team for Saturday's match against Morton in Greenock as Dundee aim to resurrect their pursuit of leaders Queen of the South.

Dundee 1 Ross County 2, Dens Park, First Division, 18/October/08

DUNDEE'S dismal form continued with a home reversal to rejuvenated Ross County. While Derek Adams' side were recording their fourth consecutive victory, Dundee have garnered three points once in their last nine matches and have slid down the table. The scoreline did not reflect the visitors' dominance, especially in the first-half. County set about commanding the opening exchanges. The front pairing of Dyron Daal and Steven Craig performed with menace but it was a more unlikely source, defender Andy Dowie, who scored the opening goal. A corner from Richard Brittain should not have caused Dundee much consternation but a failure to attack the ball let it slip through to the back post, where Dowie was lurking to nod the ball home. Then Craig produced a stunning finish to send his side two up. Richie Hart's quick break left Dundee lagging and he crossed for Craig inside the area, who, with his back to goal, managed to spin and squeeze a shot over Douglas from only a few yards. Dundee boss Alex Rae brought on Mickael Antoine-Curier and Freddy Daquin at the break and this move worked. Antoine-Curier found a goal after only 13 minutes of coming on when Davidson back-heeled the ball into his path. He broke through on Bullock and slashed a low shot into the corner. Dundee then began to come more into the game but could not gain enough momentum to find the equaliser.

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale (Mearns 72), McKeown, Williams (Daquin 46), Dodds, Posniak, Deasley (Antoine-Curier 46), Davidson, Gilhaney. Subs Not Used: O'Brien, Roy.
Booked: Dodds.
Att: 3,228

This has to be the worse team I have seen in 27 years, no fight and I do fear for our future in this Division, and it's only October.

Partick Th 0 Dundee 0, Firhill, First Division, 04/October/08

Dundee only capable of fielding four substitutes on the bench because of an injury crisis, almost snatched a dramatic early lead when Freddy Daquin swung over a corner from the right which was met perfectly by the head of Craig McKeown. However, Jags defender Paul Paton was well placed on the near post to clear.The injury-ravaged Dark Blues, with manager Alex Rae forced to name himself as a trialist substitute, showed a positive approach and almost capitalised on a mistake by David Rowson. Chris Pozniak put Mark Gilhaney away on the left, his cutback picking out Daquin, but the Frenchman blasted over from 16 yards.Ian McCall's Partick side gradually claimed the ascendancy and Simon Donnelly took a pass from Gary Harkins before shooting narrowly wide of Rab Douglas' right-hand post.Dundee almost broke the deadlock on the hour amidst a blaze of controversy after referee Eddie Smith allowed Mikael Antoine-Curier to break free on the right after the Dens man had clearly handled the ball.The striker found Bob Davidson in excellent position on the edge of the area but his shot was cleared off the line by Simon Storey.It was as close as either side got as the match petered out in a drab stalemate.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, Dodds, McKeown, Cowan, Daquin, Posniak, Antoine-Curier (Deasley 63), Davidson, Gilhaney. Subs Not Used: Mearns, O'Brien, A Trialist.
Att: 2,556
Ref: E Smith

St.Johnstone 2 Dundee 0, McDiarmid Park, First Division, 27/September/08

Dundee started with one striker upfront, a formation I don't like personally.St Johnstone enjoyed the majority of possession in the first half but were largely toothless, while Dundee did not see as much of the ball but had slightly more menace in the final third. Mickael Antoine-Curier should have put them ahead on 20 minutes when he met Freddy Daquin's free-kick inside the area but his header slipped wide. Then, on 29 minutes, referee Iain Brines made his howler. Dundee's Gary MacKenzie mis-judged a headed clearance and sent the ball spinning past Rab Douglas, his goalkeeper. To the amazement of everyone, Brines chalked the goal off for an alleged push by Martin Hardie. But St Johnstone were a team rejuvenated in the second half and a stunning goal from Sheerin split the sides on 53 minutes. With two defenders around him on the edge of Dundee's box, he spun back and forth looking for an opening before lofting a stunning shot over Douglas from 18 yards. With Dundee floundering, Milne secured the win with four minutes left, thrashing a shot beyond Douglas from 18 yards.
Dundee: Douglas, Cowan, Malone, Dodds, MacKenzie, McKeown, Daquin (McMenamin 63), Paton, Antoine-Curier, Posniak (Davidson 82), Gilhaney, McMenamin (O'Brien 90). Subs Not Used: Mearns, Roy.
Att: 4,307
Ref: I Brines
A poor result for Dundee, playing with just one striker is just too negative for me, as today St.Johnstone were not great shakes. I just hope that Dundee can get a win at Firhill on Saturday, we badly need one now before the gap at the top gets even bigger..

Dundee Sign Rhian Dodds....

Dundee have signed Rhian Dodds on loan from Kilmarnock, he should go straight into the midfield for this Saturday's vital game at Perth. He has played 31 times for Killie, but has not played since last December.

More Injury Woe For Dark Blues

Dundee midfielder Colin Cameron won’t play again this year after it was confirmed he needs surgery to repair damaged knee ligaments. Cameron was carried off during a closed-door game at East Fife on Monday night — just as he battled back to full fitness after straining a medial ligament at the end of the pre-season programme. A visit to a specialist last night confirmed this time surgery would be needed to repair the damage and there was a chance the 35-year-old would undergo his operation today. Exactly how long he’ll be out for will become clear only when he is able to start rehab work in the next few weeks, but there is no chance of him being seen in a Dark Blue shirt before the New Year. Cameron is the second summer signing to go under the knife over the past few days — Jim Lauchlan had an abductor operation in Leeds last Friday. That op. was completed successfully, but it will be up to six weeks before Lauchlan is ready to play. When he does, he may be put out on a short-term loan to get his match fitness up to scratch.

Dundee 0 Livingston 3, Dens Park, First Division, 20/Sept/08

Mickael Antoine-Curier should have put Dundee ahead after a mere nine minutes but wasted Bob Davidson's clever through-ball by smacking a half-hearted effort off the legs off Pierre Martini, Livingston's goalkeeper, when it seemed certain that he would simply curl a shot around him. Livingston, without injured top scorer Leigh Griffiths, proved they still have plenty to offer in an attacking sense and caused Dundee's goalkeeper Rab Douglas a moment of consternation on 21 minutes. Rocco Quinn, on loan from Celtic, switched the play with team-mate Joe Hamill on the edge of the area before collecting the ball again and sending a powerful drive towards goal. Douglas scampered along his line in an attempt to block and was relieved when the shot slipped just past the post. Livingston took the lead on 40 minutes, following some shocking defending. Dundee simply failed to mark up at Fernando Giarrizzo's corner kick, allowing Innes far too much space inside the penalty area to head the ball on target from 12 yards. His effort should have been routine for Douglas but the angled run of Murray Davidson through his eye line clearly distracted him and before he could reach it the ball had nestled in the back of the net. Alex Rae was unhappy with his players' efforts so made two alterations at the interval. Antoine-Curier, who was again ineffective, was sacrificed along with defensive midfielder Chris Pozniak, allowing Colin McMenamin and Colin Cameron an opportunity. Dundee went close on 76 minutes when Livingston failed to defend Paul McHale's corner kick but despite Gary MacKenzie appearing to have the beating of goalkeeper Martini, the defender could not turn the ball home. As Dundee stretched themselves in an attempt to find an equaliser, they were exposed at the back and paid a heavy price with five minutes remaining when Elliot flicked a shot beyond Douglas to make the points safe. The on-loan Hearts striker then compounded Dundee's misery in the final seconds by breaking free of the defence before slotting another low shot beyond Douglas. The Dundee fans reacted badly to events in the final minutes, with the team and manager loudly booed from the park at the end. A poor result and the next 2 games will see where our season is going. My fear is the squad is not deep enough and we have signed players who are not fit yet , and it's nearly October...
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale, MacKenzie, McKeown, O'Brien, Posniak (Cameron 46), Davidson, Antoine-Curier (McMenamin 46), Gilhaney. Subs Not Used: Williams, Cowan, Roy.
Att: 3,631
Ref: A Muir

Dundee 0 Dunfermline Ath 0, Dens Park, First Division, 13/September/08.

Dundee started brightly and Curier twice missed the target early on before the Pars suffered a blow when Stephen Glass limped off with a groin strain. Sub Steven Bell replaced in the middle of the park. David O'Brien and Eric Paton tested Gallacher then Dunfermline survived a major scare seven minutes from the break as Dundee came close to ending the deadlock four times in an amazing 10-second spell in front of goal. O'Brien's shot was palmed away by Gallacher straight to Bob Davidson who saw his low drive blocked by Scott Wilson. The ball then fell to Dens defender Craig McKeown whose mis-hit shot struck the face of a post, rebounding to Mark Gilhaney who drove high and wide. Then Woods and Malone clashed after a meaty but fair challenge, although arguably Dundee suffered more from the decision as Dunfermline defended like men possessed from that minute on. Soon after the restart Gilhaney's cross was volleyed goalwards by Malone but Curier contrived to divert the ball away from goal with his head rather than towards it. Bell and Andy Kirk were off target for Dunfermline in rare ventures forward. However, Gallacher was the standout, making yet another fine stop from Davidson's rising effort and wisely opting to push the ball wide to safety in wet conditions. Paton then delivered a perfect cross to pick out the unmarked Curier but the striker headed well wide with the goal gaping. The Pars survived one final fright when Gallacher spilled a Malone free-kick but his defenders came to his rescue with a series of blocks that epitomised the spirit they had shown all afternoon. Thats the best we have played for a while, and I liked the look of McKeown who looked to be a very good defender. Next game is Livingston at Dens next Saturday which will prove to be vital.

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale, MacKenzie, McKeown, O'Brien (McMenamin 82), Pozniak (Cameron 70), Davidson, Antoine-Curier, Gilhaney. Subs Not Used: Williams, Cowan, Roy.
Booked: McHale.
Att: 4,259
Ref: E Norris

Queen of the South 3 Dundee 1, Palmerstone, First Division, 30/August/08.

Dundee travelled to Dunfries hoping that Queen of the South were suffering from a UEFA Cup hangover, but that was dispelled over the 90 minutes that followed. Dundee scored first after 14 minutes. Mickael Antoine-Curier layed the ball off to Chris Pozniak, who took one touch before slotting home from seven yards.Queens came back into it in the 26th minute when a Stephen Dobbie shot from close range was well beaten away by Rab Douglas. From the resulting corner the Dundee defence failed to clear and Craig Barr was on hand to fire home from ten yards, levelling the match. The imperial Queens captain Jim Thompson was leading by example as the home team began to dominate. He came close to putting his side in front but his header in the 37th minute was saved by Douglas. A minute before half-time Queens went in front when clever work by Sean O'Connor set up Stephen Dobbie who fired low past Douglas. Dobbie came close to increasing his side's lead early in the second half, but Douglas kept the hosts at bay. Dobbie managed to get his second and his sides third in the 68th minute. A surging run by new boy David Weatherston created a great chance for the Queens hitman who made no mistake from six yards. At the other end, Dundee strikers Colin McMenamin and Curier had opportunities to haul their side back into it, but Queens held firm and were worthy winners.
Dundee: Douglas, Cowan, Malone, MacKenzie, Williams (McKeown 61), McHale, Paton, Pozniak (Gilhaney 71), O'Brien, McMenamin (Davidson 71), Antoine-Curier. Subs Not Used: Roy, Daquin. Att: 2,646 A poor result again for Dundee, who must pick themselves up. Hopefully Colin Cameron and Darren Young can get fit..cause it's the midfield area where we are struggling at the moment. At least Partick, Dunfermline and St.Johnstone all lost. Livingston go top after winning.

Vintage Dundee And Not Against The Arabs....

Dundee 1 Partick Th 2, Dens Park, Cis Cup 2nd Rd, 26/August/08

Dundee could have put themselves in the box seat with only four minutes gone as the ball broke to Freddie Daquin after Jon Tuffey blocked from Mickael Antoine-Curier. But Daquin completely miscued and Chris Pozniak’s attempt to spare the Frenchman’s blushes from the edge of the area flew inches over.However, although Dundee did most of the first-half pressing, it was by no means one-way traffic with the home side needing a piece of quality goalkeeping from Robert Douglas to avoid slipping behind—the former Scotland keeper thwarting Damon Gray after he’d been put through by Scott Chaplain. Tuffey came to Thistle’s rescue early in the second period without knowing much about it, blocking Antoine-Curier’s point blank header from Colin McMenamin’s cross.And as Dundee stepped up the pace Thistle had a further let off as McStay appeared to whip the pins from McMenamin just inside the box only for referee Willie Collum to wave play on.Partick stunned the Dens Park outfit and their fans on 76 minutes when Maxwell’s mishit’s cross sailed over the stranded Douglas and into the far corner of the net. Dundee showed their character with a rapid response, McHale lashing the ball home, just two minutes later, after finding himself with time and space 12 yards out. But with four minutes remaining Malone lunged in on Lennon leaving Collum with no option but point to the spot from where Harkins sent Douglas the wrong way and Rae’s side out of the competition.

Dundee—Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale, MacKenzie, Williams, Daquin (Gilhaney 62), Pozniak (Cowan 74), McMenamin, Antoine-Curier (Deasley 68), O’Brien. Subs not used—Davidson, Roy.

Dundee 1 Morton 0, Dens Park, First Division, 23/August/08.

Dundee maintained their position at the top of the First Division with a narrow victory over Morton. Defender Eric Paton's 28th-minute header was enough to seal all three points and extend the club's unbeaten start to the season. French forward Mickael Antoine-Curier impressed for the hosts and proved to be a thorn in the visitors' side throughout the game. The defeat leaves Morton struggling in ninth place in the league table. Another 3 points for The Dark Blues, but we did not play that well.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale, MacKenzie, Williams, Daquin (Gilhaney 63), Pozniak, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier (Deasley 81), O'Brien. Subs Not Used: Cowan, Davidson, Roy.

Airdrie 0 Dundee 0, Excelsior Stadium, 16/August/08

Airdrie goalkeeper Stephen Robertson earned his side a valuable draw against Dundee with a string of vital saves. Colin McMenamin, twice, and Mickael Antoine-Curier were both denied by Robertson as Dundee piled on early pressure against the hosts. Scott McLaughlin replaced the struggling David Nixon after 24 minutes and solidified the Airdrie backline. But Antoine-Curier came close to opening the scoring again with a low effort that Robertson turned away.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale, MacKenzie, Williams, Daquin (Davidson 83), Pozniak, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier, Gilhaney (O'Brien 70). Subs Not Used: Roy, Deasley, McKeown.
In a game which Dundee lacked the killer touch, maybe cause the Airdrie keeper played well, but St.Johnstone got beat 3-0 at home to Dunfermline. Let's hope Partick get beat tomorrow..

Airdrie Next...............

Dundee Manager Alex Rae has been told to expect a tough time against Airdrie United tomorrow. Assistant boss Davie Farrell watched the Diamonds win at East Fife in the Challenge Cup in midweek and his report contained plenty of praise for Kenny Black’s men. Defender David Cowan trained for the first time yesterday after suffering a head knock against Clyde, while Craig McKeown continues to make progress and is a couple of weeks away from a return. It will be another 3 massive points for Dundee..let's hope so as St.Johnstone play Dunfermline this weekend.

Dundee 1 Clyde 0, Dens Park, First Division, 09/August/08.

Dundee leapfrogged St Johnstone to move to the summit of the First Division following this hard-fought victory over Clyde. Mickael Antoine-Curier's excellent first-half strike made the difference, following a spirited performance from John Brown's side. Rab Douglas, Dundee's goalkeeper, produced excellent saves to deny Pat Clark, Alan Trouten and Billy Gibson. Both teams lost players to injury after a quarter-hour, Dundee having to replace David Cowan with Gary MacKenzie while Clyde saw Willie McLaren limp off so had to bring on Roddy MacLennan. MacKenzie missed two great chances to score by heading wide of the target but as the game looked to be heading to half-time goalless Antoine-Curier produced a spark of magic to split the sides. The Frenchman simply spun and blasted a fantastic shot high past David Hutton, Clyde's goalkeeper, after gathering a long ball 25 yards from goal. Clyde flew out of the traps in the second half, with Trouten going close before Gibson looked to have equalised with a header at the back post – only for Douglas to get in front of the ball.

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale, Cowan (Mackenzie 16), Williams, Daquin, Pozniak, McMenamin (Davidson 73), Antoine-Curier, Gilhaney (O'Brien 78).
Subs Not Used: Roy, Deasley.
Att: 4042
Ref: Steve Conroy

Dundee Sign Darren Williams

Dundee have signed versatile defender Darren Williams on a one-year deal. Williams, 31, impressed when partnering David Cowan in the centre of defence as Dundee kicked off the new season with a 2-1 victory at Ross County last week. And the former Sunderland and Bradford City player starred again as Dundee went top of the First Division with another single goal win, over Clyde. Williams made over 250 appearances for Sunderland from 1996-2004 and was a team mate of Dundee boss Alex Rae. He spent last season at Bradford City where he played 28 times before being released by Stuart McCall in April of this year. He will play in today's game v Clyde at Dens Park, kick-off 3pm.

Dundee Sign Up Pozniak and maybe more?....

Dundee have signed Canada international Chris Pozniak on a one-year deal. The Polish-born 27-year-old impressed as a trialist during last weekend's 2-1 win at Ross County. Pozniak, who has had spells in Sweden and Norway as well as the MLS in the United States, operates in central midfield but can also play in defence. Capped 21 times for his adopted country, Pozniak featured in the 3-1 defeat to Scotland at Easter Road in 2002. Meanwhile Darren Williams, the former Sunderland man, is also wanted by Dundee. They have agreed terms just remain what other options he has. Spanish midfielder Kiko Torres, though, has been told he can leave. He did play in the 4-0 win over junior side Violet on Tuesday night. Craig McKeown played for 45 minutes so that will do him good. 

Ross County 1 Dundee 2, Victoria Park, Division One, 02/August/08.

Dundee set out their title credentials with a hard-earned opening-day victory in Dingwall. In 90 minutes that crackled with energy, County troubled Alex Rae's depleted side but couldn't find a killer touch. The Dens men could – with Antoine-Curier netting from the spot and Eric Paton thundering home a header. But County, as well as being stung by a dubiously-denied penalty, struck the woodwork twice.Dundee were ravaged by injuries on day one, with new captures Colin Cameron, Jim Lauchlan and Darren Young among six absentees. That forced manager Alex Rae to lean on two trialists, 31 year-old ex-Sunderland defender Darren Williams and 27-year-old Canadian international Chris Pozniak.

The hosts were screaming for a penalty after 18 minutes when Richie Hart's driven free-kick deflected and David Winters was tugged down by Eddie Malone. The claim was waved away, but the visitors got a crucial decision after 34 minutes.Mickael Antoine-Curier was caught late by Andy Dowie and took the kick himself.Just before half-time, Adam Strachan struck the corner of the Dundee bar and post with a swirling 25-yard attempt.County fell two behind after 50 minutes,Eric Paton rising at the far post to thump a header high past Bullock.County's Scott Boyd saw a snapshot turned for a corner and Steven Craig also brushed the bar. Golabek's cross from the left was stabbed home by Daal on full-time, but it was just too late.

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale, Cowan, A Trialist, Daquin, B Trialist, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier, Gilhaney (O'Brien 70). Subs Not Used: Roy, Forsyth, Deasley, Mearns.
Booked: McHale, Cowan, Malone.
Att: 3,444
Ref: M Tumilty

A great result for Dundee, and I thought Rab Douglas will be a big signing for us..with his crucial saves will yield more vital points in the games ahead..The whole team done well..next up is Clyde at Home next Saturday.

Latest from Dens Park...Dingwall Next.....

Dundee's Craig McKeown has revealed how he is on the verge of returning to full training and eager to repay the Dark Blues for their treatment of him since he signed from Clyde earlier in the summer. Two years of injury misery for McKeown has been compounded by his missing the bulk of this pre-season after suffering a set-back in his recovery from a hernia operation.
But thanks to the medical support he’s had from the Dark Blues he’s hopeful those fitness woes are behind him. He will miss the visit to Ross County, in fact the dark blues have all three centre halfs out for the trip. Gary MacKenzie had no chance of making it, and now the experienced Jim Lauchlan has been ruled out because of a groin problem. And possible stand-in Eddie Malone is also struggling, Bob Davidson is also out this weekend. Spaniard Kiko Torres, who arrived on Tuesday on trial is not expected to feature at the weekend.

Alloa Ath 2 Dundee 1, Challenge Cup 1st Rd, Recreation Park, 26/July/08

Dundee failed to perform and they must be better next Saturday at Ross County. Jamie Stevenson made a fine return to Alloa Athletic by scoring one and setting up the other as they upset Dundee in the Challenge Cup. Stevenson, back at Recreation Park for the third time, this time on loan from Morton, sent in a fine cross that was headed home by Derek Townsley. The returning hero lobbed home the second after defensive hesitancy. Mickael Antoine-Curier stabbed home a reply after 88 minutes, but the Second Division side held on for victory.

Dundee: Roy, Paton, Malone, Mearns, MacKenzie (Forsyth 40), Cowan, Daquin (Deasley 72), McHale, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier, Gilhaney. Subs Not Used: Milne, Benedictus, Spence.
Goals: Antoine-Curier 88.
Att: 793
Ref: C Boyle

Latest From Dens Park........

Dundee have been forced to drop their interest in trialist Makhtar N’Diaye after it was confirmed he broke his arm against Bradford and will be out for a prolonged period. Despite more reports to the contrary, Freddie Daquin has not been freed and is in tomorrow’s squad. The Dark Blues have again been linked with Steve Lovell, but the club were adamant no transfer business was set to be done before tomorrow. Dundee have enlisted the help of local MSP Joe FitzPatrick in their bid to get the SFA to reconsider their decision to demote the Dens Park club from their youth performance league. Mr FitzPatrick has also written to Stewart Maxwell, the Scottish government’s minister of sport asking him to investigate. Dundee were punished on a technicality concerning a second youth licence holder not being in employment when the SFA conducted an audit at the club. This was due to an employee moving on from Dens and a new licence holder not being recruited for several weeks.

Dundee 0 Bradford City 1, Dens Park, 23/07/08

Dundee lined up without striker Mickael Antoine-Curier, who injured his ankle during Sunday’s defeat by Wolves, so that meant a starting slot for Bryan Deasley. The Dark Blues fell behind early when Conlon out-muscled the home defence with ease to head home Paul McLaren’s corner. Only a super saving tackle from Gary MacKenzie on 18 minutes stopped Kyle Nix from bursting the net as the Bantams put the pressure on. There was concern over trialist midfielder Makhtar N’Diaye just before the half-hour mark, when he came off the park clutching his arm. He had to be replaced by Paul McHale and later went to hospital for an X-ray. The Dark Blues came closest to getting a goal back when the lively Deasley played the ball across goal but it was just a few inches beyond Colin McMenamin. Bradford suffered a blow six minutes before half-time when McLaren was stretchered off with what appeared to be a serious leg injury after trying to block a clearance from Dundee’s Eric Paton. Stuart McCall’s men made a change at half-time, with the exotically-named Willy Topp replacing Chris Brandon. The Dark Blues nearly fell further behind on 55 minutes when sub Bullock found space inside the box but home keeper Robert Douglas saved well. Two minutes later, Colin Cameron had his strike blocked by full-back Paul Arnison after Deasley had a claim for a penalty turned down. Jim Lauchlan did well to stop Conlon in his tracks, before McMenamin could only bundle the ball past the post following a good cross from Mark Gilhaney. Gilhaney seemed the likeliest source for a breakthrough and from his cut-back in 76 minutes McHale shot just over. A great reverse pass from McMenamin then released Gilhaney only for his cross to just miss Cameron’s outstretched boot. The Dark Blues had the ball in the net two minutes later but MacKenzie was correctly ruled to be in an offside position as he converted a mis-hit shot from Cameron.
Attendance—1239.
Dundee—Douglas, Cowan (O’Brien 70), Malone (Forsyth 70), Cameron, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Paton, N’Diaye (McHale 28), McMenamin (Mearns 81), Deasley, Gilhaney. Subs not used—Roy.

Dundee Sign Jim Lauchlan............

Dundee manager Alex Rae secured the signature of central defender Jim Lauchlan just before kick-off on Sunday. Jim has signed a one year deal, and will add experience to the defence. He has played for city rivals Dundee Und, as well as Kilmarnock, Ross County and lately Queen of the South. Dundee play Bradford on Wednesday night at Dens Park.

Dundee 0 Wolves 1, Dens Park, 20/July/08

DUNDEE were out-foxed by Wolves in the dying seconds of their pre-season friendly, with Sylvan Ebanks-Blake securing a last-gasp victory for the visitors. The Dark Blues appeared to be about to record a decent draw against the English Championship side but had to grin and bear it when the former Manchester United man netted with almost the last kick of the match. New boy Colin Cameron, making his debut against his old club, was joined in midfield by Senegalese trialist Makhtar N’Diaye (26), who had a spell at Rangers. The Midlands side used the fixture to field two distinct line-ups, playing a half each. The hosts opened up the Wolves defence on 14 minutes when Eric Paton’s deep cross from the right found Colin McMenamin at the back post, but the striker’s volley went a couple of feet past. Up at the other end, Paton crashed the ball off his own bar but ref Stephen Finnie ruled he had been fouled by frontman Sam Vokes, and play was pulled back for a free kick. The game fell flat after that but N’Diaye broke clear on 35 minutes, only for far-side assistant Jeff Banks to raise his flag, much to the disappointment of the Dundee fans. N’Diaye was clearly enjoying his run out and, when his shot was deflected on 41 minutes, it broke to Paul McHale, who had a chance to shoot but chose to cross and the danger was cleared. Paton clashed with Vokes inside the Dundee box and there was an appeal for a penalty, but the ref waved play on. Wolves’ half-time changeover wasn’t exactly smooth as, with Dundee ready to re-start, their “new” opponents were still having a training kickabout. The visitors nearly took the lead on 51 minutes when Michael Kightly was given loads of time in front of goal but could only shoot past the post. Dundee, trying to find a spark, brought on three subs with Bryan Deasley, Bob Davidson and Eddie Mearns replacing McMenamin, Mickael Antoine-Curier and N’Diaye. Antoine-Curier had picked up a leg injury. Wolves should have taken the lead on 69 minutes but, instead of bursting the net as he should have done, striker Chris Iwelumo smashed his close-range header against the post. Matt Jarvis then had a golden chance to give Wolves the lead on 81 minutes when he sneaked in at the back post but his effort went across goal and out. Iwelumo then pounced on a Jarvis corner with just two minutes remaining but the angle was too tight for the header to trouble keeper Rab Douglas. Just as the home side seemed to have held on, poor defending saw the ball fall to the feet of Ebanks-Blake, who blasted his shot home via a post to give Wolves victory.
Attendance: 2091.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone (Forsyth 75), N’Diaye (Mearns 62), Cowan, Lauchlan, McHale, Cameron (Daquin 79), McMenamin (Deasley 58), Antoine-Curier (62), Gilhaney (O’Brien 75). Subs not used: Roy.
Referee: Stephen Finnie.

Latest from Dens Park...........

Dundee have dropped their interest in one central defensive target and it’s now not certain the other will be making his Dens stay permanent. George Santos has been told he isn’t what was required, but the surprise today was that Jim Lauchlan had not put pen to paper on a deal.
Lauchlan remains on trial and could feature in Sunday’s Dens friendly against Wolves. There were no injury worries from Tuesday’s draw against Aberdeen and longer term injury victims Darren Young and Craig McKeown are making progress, though neither are nearing a return just yet. Dundee will have more trialists for the Wolves game.

Dundee Sign Colin Cameron

New Dundee signing Colin Cameron has set his sights on promotion with the Dens Park club.
"Promotion is the main goal," said the veteran midfielder. "They were neck and neck with Hamilton last season right to the end. "Hopefully, with acquisitions like big Rab Douglas, myself and the youngsters at the club, it can be the right blend to get us promoted. The 35-year-old former Scotland international, who is under contract to MK Dons until 31 July, is looking forward to working with Dens Park manager and former team-mate Alex Rae. Cameron also hopes that, despite his advanced years, he still has a couple of seasons left in the game. Great news for the club, and will push us back to hopefully the SPL..

Dundee 0 Aberdeen 0, Dens Park, 15/July/08

Dundee struggled to make much of an attacking impression in the first half last night. Their only effort of note was Mickael Antoine-Curier’s 30 yarder that Jamie Langfield clawed round his left-hand upright. A strong Aberdeen side didn’t exactly carve out loads of chances either, but they did go closest to scoring when Lee Miller looked to have headed home Stuart Duff’s cross only for the ball to come back off the post. The Dark Blues had summer acquisitions Eric Paton, Mark Gilhaney, Eddie Mearns and Mickael Antoine-Curier involved from the start along with trialist George Santos, who looked solid alongside Gary MacKenzie and a potential threat at set-pieces. But it was two survivors of last term who combined to almost break the deadlock after the interval, Colin McMenamin flicking Eddie Malone’s cross just wide as Dundee enjoyed the better of the second period.
Attendance—2422.
Dundee—Roy, Cowan, Malone (Forsyth 83), McHale, MacKenzie, Santos (Lauchlan 63), Paton, Mearns (O’Brien 68), McMenamin (Davidson 72), Antoine-Curier (Daquin 77), Gilhaney (Deasley 77). Sub not used—Douglas.

Referee—Stephen Finnie.

Eddie Signs...and Maybe Colin?

Dundee have signed midfield player Eddie Mearns on a one year deal with an option to extend at the end of that time. The youngster showed his versatility during an outing as a trialist at Stirling. Eddie was at Hearts last season, and will add depth to the current squad. Dundee are being linked with Colin Cameron, hope so as he would be a very good signing for the club. Colin played as a trialist at Stirling last week.

Cowdenbeath 1 Dundee 5, Central Park, 12/July/08

First Division Dundee eventually emerged as clear winners of this friendly at Central Park on Saturday. It was only in the closing quarter of the game that Dundee took complete control and by that time the Fifers had sent on a number of their younger players for seasoned campaigners. Dundee had virtually a full side out but it was the hosts who dominated the opening phase of the game. John Gemmell went close in nine minutes before Mark Ramsay work good space for himself three minutes later but his finish lacked venom and former Scotland ‘keeper Rab Douglas saved easily. In 17 minutes Jon Robertson’s inch perfect pass found Fairbairn in acres of space in the Dundee box and his fierce shot from 13 yards brought out a marvellous save from Douglas. Dundee had been somewhat quiet in an attacking sense but in 23 minutes a Trialist header set up Mickel Antoine-Curier but the Frenchman was slow to react and David Hay saved. However, Dundee went ahead nine minutes later. Full-back Craig Forsyth sent over a fine cross and Colin McMenamin was lying handy to headed past Hay. The visitors looked more menacing now and Eric Paton forced a fine finger-tip save from Hay and from the midfielder’s corner Curier’s header forced Jay Shields to clear off the line. The second period opened with Andy Traube on for Kenny Adamson for the hosts but the recast defence was beaten in 53 minutes. McMenamin sent over a dangerous cross from the right and Curier was able to slide the ball home after Hay had failed to cut the ball out. To their credit Cowden were soon back in the picture. In 55 minutes Fairbairn’s cross from the right deceived the Dundee rear guard and McQuade was left with an easy chance 10 yards out which he tucked away. But Dundee were not down for long. In 57 minutes another McMenamin cross posed danger and Curier's header flashed past Hay. With both teams making full use of the the friendly substitutes ruling the game died for a spell but in the last 15 minutes the visitors stepped their game up. In 77 minutes a long ball caught the the Cowden defence square and Bryan Deasley, who was on loan at Central Park last season, ran through to make it 4-1. Then with eight minutes left Freddie Daquin’s cross was turned in by Deasley to complete the scoring.

 Dundee:Douglas; Cowan, Forsyth (Deasley 63); McHale, McKenzie, Trialist; Paton (Gilhaney 67), Trialist (Mearns 45), Antoine-Curier (Daquin 67), McMenamin, O’Brien (Malone 62). Sub not used: Roy. 

Referee-Craig Charleston. 

Att: 344.

Stirling Albion 0 Dundee 3, Forthbank Stadium,

A ten minute hat-trick from Colin McMenamin eased Dundee to a second 3-0 win in just over twenty four hours and he was assisted by new boy Mark Gilhaney who turned in a very impressive first forty five minutes in Dark Blue on Scottish soil.Included in that number was a former international midfielder and after a slow start he showed flashes of his class with a fine range of passing and some incisive runs forward. Dundee went ahead on the half hour when a Gilhaney cross from the left was deflected towards substitute Kevin Milne who had replaced Bob Davidson after the striker picked up an early knock, Milne played a nicely weighted pass into the path of McMenamin who’s shot from twenty yards made it four in a row for goals from outside the penalty area in pre-season. In thirty eight minutes it was 2-0 thanks to some quick thinking from Gilhaney and McMenamin, the winger was fouled on the left and with Stirling still arguing the award Mark took the set piece quickly and McMenamin was alert to race in and fire the ball high into the net from close range. It took just two more minutes for the scoring to be completed, Gilhaney going down the left and firing in a low cross which McMenamin flicked goalwards, this time Christie did well to block the effort but could only parry it back into the striker’s path and Colin stayed cool to stab the ball into the net despite close attention from the home defence. The match faded after the interval as the blustery wind got stronger, but the experienced midfield trialist came close to capping an impressive personal display with a goal when he raced forward, played a neat one two with McMenamin and was inches too high with a lobbed effort which had sub keeper Hogarth scrambling backwards and grateful to see the effort miss the target.

Dundee - Roy, Paton, Malone, Trialist, MacKenzie, Trialist, Trialist, Trialist, McMenamin, Davidson, Gilhaney Subs - Grant, Collins, Milne, Marshall, McHale

Montrose 0 Dundee 3, Links Park, 08/July/08

Dundee opened their account on 17 minutes when Bryan Deasley brought down a high ball 20-yards out and fired it low past keeper Mark Peat’s left. The hosts went close to a leveller moments later when a John Baird effort caused the visitors’ hearts to skip a beat.A trio of Montrose half-time substitutions helped lift them briefly, although Dundee quickly shut down anything that looked especially dangerous. When Paul McHale doubled the visitors’ advantage with a shot from the edge of the box on 65 minutes the result never looked in doubt. Just seven minutes later Mickael Antoine-Curier made it three with the best score of the game—taking time with his back to goal before turning and curling the ball into the corner from inside the penalty box. Substitute Graham Collins and Antoine-Curier both had golden chances to make it four as the clock ticked down, but the match ended without further scoring.

Dundee—Douglas, Cowan, Forsyth, McHale, Trialist, Trialist, Daquin, Grant, Antonie-Curier, Deasley, O’Brien. Subs—Hegarty, Collins, Milne, Ritchie

Latest From Malta...............

DUNDEE have former Carlisle United midfielder Neale McDermott with them at their Maltese training camp. McDermott (23), who had an unsuccessful trial period at Dunfermline in 2006, is the son of Liverpool legend Terry. The Dark Blues are also running the rule over Northern Irish central defender Sean Webb, once of St Johnstone, and an unnamed Czech midfielder. Defender Jim Lauchlan is a transfer target for both Dundee and Stirling Albion. Lauchlan is understood to have flown out to Malta to join the Dark Blues’ training camp but is also interesting Binos boss Allan Moore. The 31-year-old is looking for a new club after being released by Queen of the South. Dundee’s trialist midfielder Neale McDermott has jetted home from the training camp after suffering an abductor injury.

DUNDEE are hoping, in the course of today, to obtain a full diagnosis of the complaint which forced them to send Craig McKeown home from their Maltese training camp. Close season signing McKeown, who underwent hernia surgery for the third time in as many years this summer, had a scan yesterday after flying back to Scotland and is scheduled to visit a specialist this morning for the results. Manager Alex Rae will run the rule over trialist defender Jim Lauchlan in Friday’s friendly with Birkirkira.

Birkirkara 0 Dundee 0.
DUNDEE could not break the deadlock at the Luxol Sports Club last night, playing out a goalless draw with Maltese Cup holders Birkirkara in the only match of their pre-season trip to the island. Jim Lauchlan had the Dark Blues’ best chance of the opening period but his header was well saved by the home keeper. Lauchlan was paired with fellow trialist Sean Webb in central defence and the pair went on to play almost the full game together. David O’Brien was posing problems for the Maltese backline and consecutive crosses around the half-hour mark both deserved to be finished off. Dundee goalie Ludovic Roy did well to save a shot hit from outside the box after a Birkirkara corner caused concern for the Dundee defence as the match headed towards the interval. The Dens men made six changes at the break, including the introduction of Bryan Deasley and Mickael Antoine-Curier to the attack. On 53 minutes, good inter-passing ended with Antoine-Curier mis-hitting his shot and the ball rolled harmlessly wide. Dundee had a claim for a penalty turned down four minutes later when sub Mark Gilhaney went down in the box, with the local referee waving play on. Summer signing Darren Young took the place of the trialist Czech midfielder on 73 minutes before Antoine-Curier had a decent strike well saved.
Lauchlan and Webb were replaced by Gary MacKenzie and Ross Grant then Roy had to dive full length as a Birkirkara shot went just wide in the closing stages.
Dundee—Roy, Cowan (Paton 46), Webb (Grant 81), Lauchlan (MacKenzie 81), Malone (Forsyth 46), Trialist (Young 73), McHale, Trialist (Dachin 46), O’Brien (Gilhaney 46), McMenamin (Antoine-Curier 46), Davidson (Deasley 46).
DUNDEE BOSS Alex Rae is not rushing to judgment on any of the four trialists who featured in the goalless draw with Birkirkara. Rae, who has arrived back safe and well with his squad from the 10-day trip to Malta, saw Jim Lauchlan, Sean Webb, a Czech midfielder and a Dutch striker play on Friday night against the local side. Now he wants to see them in further action before deciding whether or not to hand out contracts.

McDonald Leaves For Burnley

Burnley have signed midfielder Kevin McDonald on a three-year deal after agreeing a fee with Dundee. Burnley boss Owen Coyle had two previous bids for the 19-year-old rejected but finally succeeded with an offer that could rise to £500,000. The Scotland Under-21 international scored 11 goals in the Scottish First Division last season and had a year of his Dens Park contract to run. "It's always important for a club like us to generate revenue but in terms of the playing side it's a big loss," Dundee manager Alex Rae told BBC Sport. "Last year he was the driving force for us and I think he's a fantastic talent who can go the whole way."
West Brom, Plymouth and Crystal Palace have all been credited with an interest in the powerful teenager. He will be missed but at least he did not go to the old firm, and the club got money as well.

Defender Paul Dixon has signed for city rivals Dundee Und. The 21-year-old was out of contract at Dundee and the neighbouring clubs agreed a compensation fee last week. Norwich had an offer for Dixon rejected last summer and Kilmarnock had been interested in signing the Scotland U21 international.

Former Gretna captain Chris Innes is on the verge of joining Dundee, while goalkeeper Robert Douglas may be returning to Dens Park. Douglas is under contract at Leicester until 31 July but will begin pre-season training with his former club. Central defender Innes, 31, who had a spell with Dundee United, was laid off when Gretna went into administration. A late hitch prevented Innes from signing on Tuesday and Dundee must now wait to see if they get their man. Douglas, 36, spent three years with Dundee before moving on to Celtic for £1.5m in October 2000. He has not featured for Leicester since February 2006 and was limited to a handful of loan appearances at Millwall and Wycombe Wanderers last season.

Welcome To Dens..Craig McKeown and Eric Paton

Dundee have officially unveiled defenders Craig McKeown and Eric Paton as their latest summer signings. Both players had signed pre-contract agreements with the Dens Park club with McKeown joining from Clyde and Paton leaving Queen of the South. This will prove to be two good signings, and with more to follow the squad is getting stronger..

Scott Robertson leaves Dens Park......

Scott Robertson has left Dundee FC to sign for city rivals Dundee Und. His current deal was finished, and for football reason's has crossed the road. He has been at Dens since he was 14, came through the youth teams to play around 100 first team games. As Scott is a Dundee fan he has done something I could never do....sign for the Arabs. He goes with my best wishes and thank him for his time at Dens Park..but he will get no such support from me..next season.

Lastest News From Dens Park....

Dundee have turned down a £250,000 bid from Burnley for Scotland Under-21 midfielder Kevin McDonald. Dens Park chairman Bob Brannan said:"We have refused an offer which does not meet our valuation. "We do not want to rush into anything. The deadline for transfers is three months away and we will not be rushed into doing bad busines."
Several other English sides are thought to be preparing offers for McDonald, who has one year left on his contract. Celtic and Everton were interested in the player last season, and now West Brom, Plymouth and Crystal Palace are among those tracking him. Hope Dundee get at least £749,999.99

Defender David Worrell has left the club by mutual consent. Right back Worrell was a regular in Dundee's side in the early part of last season having joining up at Dens in the summer of 2007 after being released by Rotherham at the end of last season. He made 26 appearances for the Dark Blues, making his competitive debut in a 2-0 win over Livingston on the opening day of the season and his final outing in Dark Blue came in the 3-0 win over Stirling at Dens in April.

Dundee Sign Darren Young..More to Follow....

Darren Young signed a two-year deal with Dundee yesterday, as Alex Rae steps up his bid to build the squad for next season. Darren has been at Dunfermline for the last few season's. He started at Aberdeen and made 130 first-team appearances for the Dons, captaining them during the 2001-2002 campaign when they finished fourth in the SPL. He moved to Dunfermline—along with his brother Derek in July 2003—and played just over 150 games for the Pars. Last term though he featured only 20 times as injuries restricted him to just three first-team outings in the space of five months. So hopefully that is behind him now, also at Dens yesterday was Livingston striker Robert Snodgrass for contract discussions, but left without agreeing a deal. The in-demand 20-year-old, who also has Morton on his trail, is mulling over Dundee’s offer and is expected to give his answer by the end of the week. Former Dark Blues keeper Rab Douglas remains on course for a return to the club. Meanwhile, Dundee are set to head for Malta on June 25 for a 10-day training camp.

Dundee Sign Mark Gilhaney...

Dundee today paid out a five-figure fee to sign Hamilton winger Mark Gilhaney. The 23-year-old signed up on a two-year deal. a very good signing as he done well against us last season. More player could follow in the next few days, with two agreeing terms, one is rumoured to be former keeper Derek Soutar.

What a Summer That Would Have Been.....

First Goal at Muirton Park as Dundee FC Win the League

Dundee sign up youngster Forsyth.....

DUNDEE have signed young left back Craig Forsyth on a one-year deal with an option for a further year. The 19-year-old has impressed on loan to Montrose during the latter part of last season, making 10 first team appearances for the Gable Endies. One for next season he will push for a first team spot..his dad Stewert played for the club in mid-late 80's.

PreSeason Games.....

Dundee will be away for 4-5 days at a training camp, then play the following games:

Tue 15th July: v Aberdeen, Dens Park.
Sun 20th July: v Wolves, Dens Park.
Wed 23rd July: v Bradford City, Dens Park.(T.B.C)

Latest From Dens Park........

Dundee have completed the signing of striker Mickael Antoine-Curier on a three-year contract. And defender David Cowan has agreed to stay on at Dens Park for two years. Frenchman Antoine-Curier, 25, joined Hibs last summer but was allowed to move to Dundee on loan in January and scored nine goals for Alex Rae's side. Cowan was released by Gretna in January and the left-back has earned a new deal at the First Division club after impressing Rae. Dundee have also announced a new kit and sponsorship deal with sportswear manufacturer Bukta. A big boost for the club..a good day's work..and more to follow..

Dundee FC players In and Out........................

Players In: Mickael Antoine-Curier (3 year deal), David Cowan (2 year deal), Craig Forsyth (1 year deal), Mark Gilhaney (2 year deal) from Hamilton, Darren Young (2 year deal) from Dunfermline,..




Players Out: Gavin Swankie to St.Johnstone, Scott Robertson to Dundee Und ( freedom of contract).. Paul Dixon to, Milan Palenik to, Jani Sturm to, Jan Zemlik to, Brian Clark to, Scott Gates to Arbroath (free). David Worrell (mutual consent)....................................

David O'Brien Signs New Deal..More to Follow..

Dundee have signed David O'Brien on a new one year deal, but Scott Robertson and Paul Dixon have refused the club's final offer of a new contract.
FOREIGN TRIO AWAY
What is set to be a summer of change at Dundee got under way today when Alex Rae announced the departure from Dens Park of three of his foreign legion. The Dark Blues boss has confirmed Milan Palenik, Jan Zemlik and Jani Sturm will not be at the club next term. Of that trio an attempt was made to retain the services of Czech defender Palenik, but his fellow countryman Zemlik and Slovenian Sturm have both been told to go. Also being released is young midfielder Brian Clark. While Palenik has been linked with St Johnstone, for Zemlik and Sturm the Scottish adventure looks over. Tomorrow will see meetings with the Scottish-based out of contract players and that will bring confirmation that Scott Robertson, Paul Dixon and Gavin Swankie are departing. The futures of David Cowan and David O’Brien should also be clarified then, while the next couple of days could also see progress made with bids to bring in fresh faces.

Dundee 1 Hamilton Accies 1, Dens Park, 26/April/08

COLIN McMenamin's late goal ensured that Hamilton did not win at Dens Park but their celebrations were unbridled nonetheless. It seemed Andy Waterworth's goal would send Billy Reid's side away with full points until Dundee struck with their final foray. It was a bizarre day at Dens Park, with home manager Alex Rae falling out with the departing Paul Dixon and substituting him before the break, then Derek Lyle, who has a pre-contract with Accies, publicly leaving the home dug-out and indulging in some celebration with the Accies fans. Hamilton demonstrated why they will be playing in the SPL next season, despite having five first-team players missing. Billy Reid's side's crispness of passing and physicality put them ahead of anything Dundee had to offer. Accies' goal came when Dundee allowed Grant Gillespie, 16 years of age, to cross into the box, and Waterworth swept his shot home. The visitors' celebrations were somewhat soured on the 60th minute, however, when goalkeeper Tomas Cerny was carried from the field after receiving a serious head knock following an accidental collision. Dundee lost Scott Robertson to injury, with Patrick Noubissie called into action as Rae's third sub. This then led to a bizarre moment, as Derek Lyle, a Dundee substitute but who is bound for Accies in the summer, realised his Dens Park career was over and strode down the track, prompting the home fans to jeer and the small band of visiting fans to chant his name.

Dundee: Wright, Cowan, MacKenzie (McHale 46), Malone, Dixon (Daquin 43), O'Brien, Robertson (Noubissie 71), McDonald, Swankie, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier. Subs Not Used: A Trialist, Lyle.
Booked: Robertson, McMenamin, Dixon, Wright.
Goals: McMenamin 90.
Att: 3,146
Ref: I Brines

Dundee To Face Wolves....

Dundee are set to face Wolverhampton Wanderers in the build-up to the new season. The Dark Blues have drawn up plans to host Wolves, currently chasing a Coca Cola Championship play-off spot, on July 19 or 20. Attempts are being made to arrange a number of other high-profile warm-up games at Dens while the club are considering pre-season training camp options in both Northern Ireland and England.

Queen of the South 1 Dundee 0, Palmerstone Park, 19/April/08

A goal three minutes before the interval was enough to secure victory for Queen of the South and finish off Dundee's title hopes. Bob Harris swung in a corner which the Dark Blues defence failed to clear, and Brian Gilmour fired high into the net. Queens had chances to increase their lead but met with stout defending and some fine goalkeeping by Craig Samson. Dundee failed to threaten and the Scottish Cup finalists' held on to record their third win in-a-row. Dundee rarely threatened to score and there was little for 566 strong travelling support to cheer, not that they kept quiet, the team getting the same sort of vocal backing that has been a feature of a campaign where Dundee have challenged but not quite managed to reward that support.
Dundee: Samson, Cowan, Dixon, MacKenzie, Malone, McDonald, Daquin (Lyle 46), Robertson (Noubissie 71), Swankie (O'Brien 71), McMenamin, Antoine-Curier.Subs Not Used: Roy, Worrell.
Booked: MacKenzie.
Att: 3,005
Ref: S Conroy.
Alex Rae was bitterly disappointed that his side hadn’t performed against Queens “We were second best all over the park, never really got the grips with it at all, that’s the disappointing thing to go out in the manner we did, you’ve got to give them credit they’ve performed so well recently but when they perform like that it’s hard to take. e was honest about the difference between first and second place in the division too “I think the difference is that they’ve got guys who’ve got that little bit of experience and purpose in the right areas, we don’t have a lot of leaders, we’ve got good, decent, players but not any leaders as such, guys who’ll pull people about – they have that in about three or four positions, guys like Alex Neill and McLaughlin, and I think that was the difference before them and us”. nd Rae admitted that he could struggle to hang onto some of his stars “I’ll have to assess what I’ve got there’s a lot out of contract here, because they’ve had such a good season I’m sure a lot of them will be leaving, just for the fact you can’t get them on longer contracts.”