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.”

Bob Davidson Signs New Deal..

DUNDEE MANAGER Alex Rae last night hailed the new deal agreed with Bob Davidson as a fine bit of business for the club. As the Dark Blues look ahead to what could be a decisive weekend for the first division championship race, they yesterday took time out of the build-up to secure Davidson’s services until May 2009. A good signing for next season what ever divition we are in..
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Dundee 3 Stirling Albion 0, Dens Park, 12/April/08

Dundee remain in the First Division title race thanks to a win over relegated Stirling Albion.
The home side broke the deadlock on 55 minutes when Gary McKenzie headed home from Freddie Daquin's corner. A few minutes later, Gavin Swankie lashed in his fourth goal of the season, with the visitors failing to clear their lines. In the final minute, Scott Robertson ran on to a Kevin McDonald pass and slipped a neat shot into the net. Dundee are four points behind leaders Hamilton with just two matches left and travel to Scottish Cup heroes Queen of the South next weekend. And we must believe we can do it...Time will tell..

Dundee: Samson, Worrell, MacKenzie, Malone, Dixon, Daquin (Robertson 75), Noubissie, McDonald, Swankie (O'Brien 71), Antoine-Curier (Lyle 70), McMenamin. Subs Not Used: Roy, Clark.
Booked: Lyle.
Goals: MacKenzie 55, Swankie 58, Robertson 90.
Att: 4,129
Ref: C Charleston

Morton 1 Dundee 2, Cappielow, 05/April/08

DEREK Lyle's late winner kept Dundee's lingering title ambitions alive and sunk Morton deeper into the relegation play-off position. Morton took the lead after eight minutes with their first chance. Jim McAlistair beat two Dundee defenders before firing low past Craig Samson. Captain Peter Weatherson could have doubled his side's lead after 15 minutes but he wasted the chance by blasting it off Samson's legs.Mikael Antoine-Curier restored parity in the 25th minute. A poor clearance was picked up by David O'Brien, who set up his team-mate. Nine minutes later Scott McLauchlin's thunderous free kick crashed back off the underside of the bar before being cleared by Dundee.Lyle's deciding strike came on 80 minutes from a Gary McKenzie knock-down. A well fought 3 points for the Dark Blues..with 3 games to go..we still have a chance..
Dundee: Samson, Cowan, Dixon, McDonald, MacKenzie, Malone, Daquin (Lyle 62), Noubissie, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier, O'Brien (Swankie 40). Subs Not Used: Worrell, Clark, Roy.
Booked: McDonald.
Goals: Antoine-Curier 25, Lyle 80.
Att: 3,478
Ref: B. Winter

Partick Th 1 Dundee 0, Firhill, 01/April/08

Substitute Mark Roberts fired a late winner as Partick Thistle damaged Dundee's First Division title hopes. Dundee, looking to close the gap on league leaders Hamilton to one point, went close to a first half goal through Mickael Antoine-Curier. Referee Steven Nicholls awarded Thistle a penalty when David Cowan fouled Stevie Murray, but reversed his ruling after consulting his assistant. Roberts sealed the win when he combined with Murray to beat Craig Samson. David O'Brien and Antoine-Curier had earlier spurned great chances for Alex Rae's side. Partick Thistle held on for victory to move up to fifth spot in the table, while the defeat leaves Dundee four points behind Hamilton. A bad result for Dundee.. But we must believe we can still make it....but no more slip ups...
What Dundee boss Alex Rae said after the game: "I thought the boys did ever so well. Thistle have snatched a winner at the end. We dominated throughout and probably had the chances earlier in the game to put it to bed. "With the penalty I actually thought our player got the ball. Thankfully, the linesman was big enough to make the right call. "I've given officials a lot of stick over the course of the season, but I have to give that fella bit of credit then. "Hamilton are in the driving seat now, but I'm encouraged by the way my players went about their business."
Dundee: Samson, Cowan, Noubissie, MacKenzie, Dixon, Daquin, McDonald, O'Brien (Swankie 66), Malone, Lyle, Antoine-Curier. Subs Not Used: Worrell, Clark, Sturm, Roy.
Booked: Lyle, Cowan, McDonald.
Att: 2,426
Ref: S Nicholls

Dundee 2 Clyde 0, Dens Park, 30/March/08

DUNDEE increased the pressure on Division One leaders Hamilton with an effective performance to defeat Clyde. Alex Rae's players comfortably saw off the Bully Wee, whose relegation concerns still linger, with goals from David O'Brien and Kevin McDonald but events at New Douglas Park, where leaders Hamilton were held by Partick Thistle, were of equal significance. Dundee play the Jags on Tuesday, their game in hand, and should they win the points gap at the head of the table – which was once as large as nine – will be reduced to a paltry one.The Bully Wee, who recorded a shock against St Johnstone in midweek, could last only until eight minutes before the home side streaked into the lead. David Hutton, their goalkeeper, looked to have done enough by pushing Derek Lyle's free-kick away from his top corner but none of his defenders checked the run of David O'Brien, who stole a few yards on them and stroked the rebound into the empty net. Jorg Albertz had his first chance to shoot on 32 minutes but his low free-kick cannoned back off the wall. However, another chance presented itself within a minute and, this time, the German showed he retains his old prowess by cracking a shot into Samson's back post which only the crossbar prevented from going in. Dundee ended the match as a contest on 72 minutes when Kevin McDonald raced through on goal to slot a low shot beyond the woefully exposed Hutton. A great result, but we must keep it going and really put pressure 0n leaders Hamilton..
Dundee: Samson, Cowan, MacKenzie, Malone, Dixon, Daquin, McDonald, Noubissie, O’Brien, Davidson (Swankie 62), Lyle (Clark 83).
Subs Not Used: Roy, Worrell, Rae.
Booked: Lyle, Dixon.
Goals: O’Brien 8, McDonald 73.
Att: 4,037

Kev Hits Winner...........

KEVIN McDonald's stunning strike eight minutes from time breathed new life into Scotland's Uefa Under-21 Championship qualifying hopes as Finland were handed their first defeat in Group Six.Scotland took the lead in the 29th minute when captain Steven Naismith struck following a well-worked free-kick, but just before half-time Kasper Hamalainen equalised courtesy of a beautiful curled effort.Finland were the better side for much of the second period, only for McDonald to thump a superb half-volley high into the net and push Scotland to within five points of table-topping Finland, while still holding a game in hand.When the contest began at a sparsely populated Pittodrie, goalscoring chances were at a premium. Scotland were at least able to take confidence from Tomi Maanoja's poor handling in the 19th minute, when the Finland goalkeeper spilled a cross from Ross McCormack while under pressure from Ross Campbell.Given the close nature of the match, it was no surprise it took a set-piece to break the deadlock and when the first goal came, it was thanks to a smart free-kick from Scotland.The opportunity arose after Ville Jalasto crudely scythed down Scott Arfield. Initially, it looked as if the ball was going to be laid off to McCormack, but clever play from Jamie Hamill and Arfield instead saw Naismith presented with the chance to shoot.The Rangers player smashed a powerful low 30-yard drive towards goal and a deflection helped the ball carry past Maanoja.Scotland grew in stature following the breakthrough, which was just the fourth goal their opponents had conceded in six qualifying games.McCormack gathered the ball on the edge of the Finland 18-yard box and lashed a shot wide.But from a similar range, Hamalainen showed Scotland how to finish in style. The midfielder received a pass from Pyry Karkkainen, shifted the ball on to his stronger right foot, and clipped a sumptuous shot past Jamie MacDonald.It was an impressive goal from Hamalainen, although Scotland Under-21 manager Billy Stark must have been disappointed about the amount of space afforded to the Finn by central defenders Garry Kenneth and Mark Reynolds.Kenneth suffered an injury just before half-time when he landed awkwardly, but the Dundee United defender recovered and began the second period in assured fashion.In the 51st minute, Ilari Aijala must have thought he was going to race onto the ball inside the Scotland penalty area, only for Kenneth to use his tall frame to produce a crucial interception.Finland's most threatening player continued to be Hamalainen and the TPS man once again reminded Scotland of his shooting prowess when he fired a drive past MacDonald's near post.Hamalainen then connected with a cross from Aijala and launched a volley straight at MacDonald, who demonstrated good handling skills.Finland remained on top, with Berat Sadik the next to try his luck, sweeping a right-footed shot over the crossbar from an acute angle.In the 78th minute, Naismith squandered a fantastic opportunity when he headed wide from close range having been found by McCormack's cross.But Naismith was to have his blushes saved by McDonald, who netted the winning goal courtesy of an outstanding strike.McCormack was again the architect, sweeping a superb left-to-right cross-field pass from a free-kick right into the path of Kev McDonald. The Dundee midfielder showed good control before powering a precision right-footed effort high into the roof of the net.A late blunder from goalkeeper MacDonald almost gifted an equaliser to Finland, but Jalasto was unable to reach the ball as Scotland survived an injury-time scare.

Dunfermline Ath 0 Dundee 1, East End Park, 22/March/08

THE quintessential game of two halves, the first on the bland side of nondescript, the second more entertaining and Dundee marginally deserved all three points with an ugly win to keep pace with league leaders Hamilton Accies. Early on, the lack of quality on show was plain for everyone including a large travelling contingent from Tayside. Entertainment it most certainly was not until first-half stoppage time when Mark Burchill's 20-yard drive forced Craig Samson into an excellent save. Dundee emerged from the interval with a sense of purpose and it paid dividends when Freddie Daquin, languidly disinterested in the first half, collected a loose ball on the edge of the six-yard box and hit his shot under Paul Gallacher and in off the far post. That stung the Pars into life and they almost equalised straight away – a deft cross by Stephen Glass headed on to the post by Stevie Crawford. Suddenly goalmouth action was back in vogue and Gallacher did well to prevent Colin McMenamin doubling Dundee's lead, tipping over the striker's 12-yard shot. McMenamin then missed the target with a close-range header from a Derek Lyle cross then with 12 minutes remaining Gallacher kept the Pars in the game with a brace of point-blank saves, first from substitute Bob Davidson and then from Kevin McDonald. A massive result for Dundee..next up is CLYDE at Dens next Saturday

Hamilton Accies 1 Dundee 0, New Douglas Park, 15/March/08

HAMILTON struck a major blow in the First Division title race with this narrow but vital 1-0 victory. James McArthur's first-half strike sealed the win to move Accies six points clear of Dundee, who still have a game in hand, though they do still have to visit Dens Park on the last day of the season. This game certainly didn't lack competitive edge, nine bookings and one red card were proof of that, and there was no shortage of action for the 5,078 in attendance. Both sets of players defended doggedly and it was going to need a bit of luck for either side to score. The home side managed it in 18 minutes and it came courtesy of midfielder McArthur. Tony Stevenson is turning into a set piece expert for Accies and it was he who whipped in the ball for yet another assist. David Graham was unlucky to see his flick-on saved by Craig Samson but McArthur was on hand to divert the ball home. Dundee were very active in their attempts to find an equaliser and Colin McMenamin missed the target twice. So, 1-0 to the league leaders at half-time and Dundee now had to find a goal though you have to go back ten years for the last time the Dens Park men won away against Accies in the league. Their plight was not helped by indiscipline, and Frenchman Mickael Antoine-Curier was given his marching orders in 53 minutes for an apparent gesture made to one of the officials.However, Accies failed to capitalise on their extra man advantage and instead defended their lead tremendously to remain top of the table. I missed the game due to work, just hope now that we bounce back, and next game is Dunfermline away..MON THE DEE

Dundee 2 Livingston 0, Dens Park, 11/March/08

Mickael Antoine-Curier struck twice in the second half at Dens Park to dump Livingston and set up a top of the table clash between Dundee and Hamilton at New Douglas Park this weekend. The Frenchman, on loan from Hibs, made it eight goals in just five appearances since January for the Dark Blues. The home side had the better of the early stages and in seven minutes David O'Brien saw a deflected effort fly just wide of Colin Stewart's goal, but that was about it for a disappointing first half. The opening four minutes of the second half saw more action than the entire first period.First O'Brien saw a six-yard shot well saved by Stewart, but there was nothing the keeper could do in the 48th minute when the home side took the lead. What looked a poor Craig Samson clearance reached Colin McMenamin who released Antoine-Curier and the Frenchman unleashed a fierce effort high into the back of the net.As Livi tried to hit back just a minute later 20-year-old Murray Davidson dived when challenged by Paul Dixon in the home box. He'd already been booked for a tackle on O'Brien and his second yellow card saw red shown as well.Furious at seeing his side reduced to ten men, Almondvale boss Mark Proctor spoke out of turn to the assistant referee and was sent packing as well.In 61 minutes the points were secure as Dave Mackay was booked for a foul on O'Brien 22-yards out and Antoine-Curier got his second with a low drive from the free-kick. Massive game now on Saturday..will go a long way on who wins the League..

Queen of the South 2 Dundee 0, Palmerston Park, Scottish Cup 1/4 Final,08/03/08

PALMERSTON shook, the Doonhamers' hordes rattled, and Queen of the South rolled into the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup for the first time in 58 years. Back in 1950, Queens faced Rangers, this time it will be Aberdeen or Celtic. When the draw came through, the almighty roar from the home dressing room said it all. The outstanding Stephen Dobbie had brought Queens the lead with a well-taken goal. The decisive goal at the end was incredible.Desperate Dundee had thrown everyone forward for a free-kick, including goalkeeper Craig Samson. When the ball came out, Queens right-back Ryan McCann collected it near the touchline, well within his half. He looked up. Samson started racing back. McCann knew what he was doing and he launched the ball into the air. It flew 70 yards and landed and bounced into the empty net. The home fans behind the goals went nuts. Queen of the South became the first side to reach the last four of this season's competition.Dundee were so short of fit personnel yesterday that player-manager Alex Rae named himself on the bench. Colin McMenamin and Mickael Antoine Curier were both cup-tied, Gary MacKenzie and Kevin McDonald were suspended, striker Derek Lyle was both cup-tied and injured. All in all, six who featured in last weekend's league victory over St Johnstone could not be called on. So it was inevitable that Patrick Noubissie, the young Frenchman on loan from Hibs, should make his Dundee debut. So shorn of players were Dundee that Rae had billed Queen of the South as favourites to reach the semi-finals. Of course it suited Rae to say such a thing too. And those favourites won.The first goal was the turning point. It was poor defending to say the least.Queens had knocked Dundee out of this competition last season, following a penalty shoot-out at Palmerston. In addition to that, they had beaten Dundee twice within the past three months in the First Division. Dundee are involved in their promotion push but Queens have been climbing up the table lately and had gone nine games unbeaten.There was a cracking atmosphere about Palmerston before kick-off. The old ground lends itself easily to such occasions and the Queens fans were in full rattle mode too with their old-fashioned racket-makers.Dougie Doonhamer whirled his rattle as the teams ran out; Queens' dog-eared border collie had a bigger occasion than Crufts this weekend.This was Dundee's third appearance in the last eight in the past six years but Queens applied the early pressure against the retreating visitors. The hosts forced a second minute corner and their fans roared. At the other end, a Noubissie cross found Freddie Daquin whose hanging header dipped over the home crossbar. Then Dundee's Eddie Malone tested the home keeper, Jamie MacDonald, who saved the effort.In the best piece of play so far, Queens striker Dobbie turned Dundee defender Paul Dixon one way and then the other before catching sight of goal and unleashing a low drive to the far corner. It whizzed not far wide of the target.The rain fell heavily. Then stopped. Extreme weather and no breakthrough in this cup tie as it edged towards half-time. Just before the interval Dixon shot over the bar from distance. And shortly after the break, the visitors' Bob Davidson had a go from some way out but that was stopped by MacDonald whose next act was to set up the home side's opening goal, a route one affair with a clever finish.MacDonald pumped a high kick deep into Dundee territory and Dobbie latched on to it, outpacing the Dundee rearguard. Samson tried to narrow the angle and put him off. But the Queens striker kept his calm and expertly angled the ball into the corner of the net. Dobbie then split Dundee with a cross-field pass to Steve Tosh, who forced a save from a busy Samson.Tosh had another later blast and a Davidson header was saved by MacDonald. Queens substitute John Stewart was clean through but could only drive into the arms of Samson. Dundee remained in the game as the home fans clamoured for an end to this contest. Queens had one foot in the next round until McCann ensured that both feet were planted there.

Build up to Dunfries...

Dundee’s First Division promotion bid was handed a boost today when it emerged in-form striker Colin McMenamin will not miss the big clashes with Hamilton and Dunfermline through suspension. The Dark Blues feared his booking for leaving the pitch to celebrate his winner against St Johnstone had pushed him over the penalty points limit and earned a two-game ban, starting with the visit to the division leaders on Saturday week. Word from the SFL, however, has confirmed the man who’s hit five goals since joining up at Dens in January remains a point short of a ban. That means that, even if he picked up a booking against former club Livingston next midweek, the resulting ban would not kick in for another fortnight. Mean while winger Gavin Swankie remains 50-50 of being involved in the cup tie, he is suffering a calf knock. All Dundee tickets are now sold out..some remain on the forum with some fans unable to go.. Taking over in attack won’t be Derek Lyle. He has been ruled out of this tie and Tuesday’s game after falling through a glass table at home. That’s left him with 16 stitches in a gashed stomach, though he could be back running by the middle of next week.

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

Dundee look set to be without Scott Robertson for the remainder of the season.The midfielder had to be stretchered off during Saturday’s 3-2 win over St Johnstone amid worries he had torn a hamstring. And those fears were confirmed today when a scan revealed the 22-year-old had, indeed, suffered a tear. Barring a quicker-than-expected recovery, Robertson’s season is over and, with the club chasing promotion and still in the Scottish Cup, it’s undoubtedly a major blow for the Dark Blues.

Dundee have signed Patrick Noubissie from Hibernian on an emergency loan ahead of the Scottish Cup quarter final at Dumfries on Saturday and the midfielder is eligible to play in the tie. Patrick played against Dundee as a trialist for Livingston on the opening day of the season before signing for Hibs, he was loaned back to Livingston and made a further eight appearances for the West Lothian club, he’s also made four first team appearances for Hibs this season.

Dundee 3 St.Johnstone 2, Dens Park, 01/March/08

Dundee grabbed all three points courtesy of a Colin McMenamin winner deep into injury time to close the gap on Hamilton. Dundee were almost a goal to the good straight from the kick-off, Mickael Antoine-Curier's cross fumbled by Main with Scott Robertson just failing to score. He missed an even better opportunity four minutes later, blazing Freddy Daquin's pull back over the bar.Antoine-Curier thought he had given the home side the lead 10 minutes before the interval but a late off-side flag cut short the celebrations. It simply delayed them as the Frenchman shot on the turn in the 41st minute for a deflected but deserved goal. Midway through the second half ex-Chelsea star Jody Morris was given a less than cordial welcome to Scottish football but stunned the home fans with a bullet header from 12 yards out from an excellent Goran Stanic cross. In quick succession, ex-Gretna striker Colin McMenamin restored Dundee's lead, then Andrew Jackson curled the ball past Samson to level again. An afternoon of high drama was not over before McMenamin's header deep in stoppage time gave Dundee their three most vital points of the season so far. Delighted Dundee coach Alex Rae said: "It was a crucial victory and I was pleased the way we kept going right to the very end." His opposite number Derek McInnes was dejected, saying: "I thought at one stage we were going to win it but good sides like Dundee never give up. It's a hard one to take." What a Tayside derby..plenty action, goals and a brilliant last second winner for The Dee...Hamilton drew 2-2 at Queen of the South..

Latest From Dens Park

Dundee defender Gary MacKenzie has signed a new contract which keeps him at Dens Park until 2010. which is good news for the club. DUNDEE have decided not to make a move for Trinidad and Tobago international defender Avery John. John, who has been capped over 60 times for his country, was on trial at Dens for the past week but the Dark Blues have decided he is not ready to go straight into their first team. The Dark Blues, meanwhile, are in the dark over a report from the Caribbean that Trinidad and Tobago champions San Juan Jabloteh will be facing them in a Dens Park friendly next month. Jabloteh, who are managed by former England international Terry Fenwick and faced Dundee in a friendly in Trinidad in 2003, are touring Scotland next month and will face Arbroath.

Stirling Albion 1 Dundee 6, Annfield, 23/Feb/08

DUNDEE hit relegation strugglers Stirling Albion for six with a clinical performance which underlined the Taysiders' championship credentials.The visitors took the lead in the 14th minute when Paul McHale's cross, which seemed destined for the arms of goalkeeper Myles Hogarth, brushed off the head of defender Alan Lithgow and into the path of Antoine-Curier, and with the goal at his mercy, the French striker swept the ball into the net for his third goal in three games.Not for the first time this season, Stirling's frailties at the back saw them come unstuck and the situation became worse as Dundee stretched their advantage nine minutes before the break.Hogarth could only palm away Antoine-Curier's drive and Colin McMenamin was perfectly placed to finish the job from close in.Stirling almost pulled one back two minutes after the break but were unlucky as Chris Aitken's 35-yarder came off the underside of the bar and was then headed over by David McKenna.Stirling were to pay dearly and Dundee made it 3-0, Antoine-Curier's clip at goal coming off Laurie Ellis.Antoine-Curier inflicted more damage, leaping up to head in McMenamin's cross from the left and substitute Bob Davidson's bundled drive increased their lead to 5-0.But there was a crumb of consolation for Stirling as sub Colin Cramb tucked away an Aitken corner before Derek Lyle's header completed the rout. A massive result for Dundee, it sets up next Saturdays home game against St.Johnstone..Antoine-Curier took the match ball..so it's looks like it was his goal..

Dundee 2 Morton 0, Dens Park, 16/Feb/08

Dundee narrowed the gap on leaders Hamilton with an unconvincing victory over basement strugglers Morton. Despite Morton being reduced to 10 men, they dominated most of the game and were unfortunate to leave pointless. Mickael Antoine-Curier headed Dundee into the lead after six minutes and Gavin Swankie made it 2-0 with an opportunistic strike. But after that we stopped playing and even have to change goalkeepers after Ludovic Roy picked up a knock. Derek Lyle came on and done well, Morton had a lot of the ball but failed to trouble Craig Samson into any real saves....not good to watch but massive result with Hamilton losing at St.Johnstone 2-1. The gap is now down to 4 points..my wish is for all Dundee Fans to Back the Team as we push to win Promotion..

Motherwell 1 Dundee 2, Fir Park, Scottish Cup, 11/Feb/08..

DUNDEE put their recent first division difficulties behind them last night to claim the scalp of SPL Motherwell and set up a Scottish Cup quarter-final meeting with Queen of the South next month. The Dark Blues headed for Fir Park with just one win—a defeat of Highland League Huntly in the last round—to their credit this year, a run that has left them seven points adrift of leaders Hamilton in the title race. But goals from Paul McHale and Scott Robertson and a smashing second-half performance saw off the Steelmen and sent Alex Rae’s side into the last eight. Dundee’s evening was marred, though, by the late dismissals of Kevin McDonald and Gary MacKenzie, both for double yellow cards. McDonald was hard done by, but MacKenzie could have no complaints. The Scotland under-21 midfielder walked eight minutes from time for catching Stephen Hughes, having earlier picked up a soft looking caution, and MacKenzie followed five minutes later. Having already been booked for a clash with Motherwell keeper Graeme Smith, MacKenzie lunged in on Stephen Craigan, leaving referee Eddie Smith with no real option but to send him packing. Rae had made three changes to his starting line-up following the weekend draw with Livingston, drafting in Swankie, Derek Lyle and Bob Davidson for David O’Brien and ineligible pair Colin McMenamin and Mickael Antoine-Curier. But goalkeeper Ludovic Roy featured despite his wife having given birth to son Oliver—the couple’s second child—earlier in the day. When the first half fell miles short of a classic it seemed justified to blame a surface which had led to the tie being postponed on two occasions. Despite extensive remedial work the park, around 20% of which had been relaid, was in rather desperate condition and all too often promising moves broke down through misplaced passes or players simply losing control of the ball. But after Dundee lit the blue touch paper by scoring early in the second period these two proceeded to ignore the difficult underfoot conditions and produce a rip-roaring cup-tie. Motherwell had looked the more likely side to score in that untidy first half but their best chance fell to Steven McGarry who, having nicked the ball off David Cowan inside the box, passed up the opportunity by having a fresh air swipe. Dundee put a lot of effort into the opening period without ever threatening to score. Within four minutes of the restart, however, they’d broken the deadlock. Roy’s goal-kick was controlled just inside the Well half by Davidson before he released Swankie on the left hand side. Swankie sprinted to the bye-line and fired in a cross that Graeme Smith spilled into the path of McHale. The former Rangers midfielder took a touch and steadied himself before firing into the roof of the net from 10 yards. And six minutes later it was 2-0 as Lyle failed to connect with a McDonald cross at the near post but Robertson arrived to slot the ball into the empty net. Following the introduction of Darren Smith and Simon Lappin, Motherwell hit back. Lappin, sliding in at the far post, narrowly failed to connect with a David Clarkson cross before, on 61 minutes, Smith bulleted in a header from Steven Hammell’s corner to reduce the deficit. Dundee should have dampened home spirits when Smith miscued a clearance straight to Davidson only for the recalled front man to lash the ball high over the crossbar. Being reduced to nine men ensured Dundee spent the remainder of regulation time and five additional minutes firmly on the back foot, but when a misdirected Paul Dixon header looked like producing an own goal Roy responded with a fantastic tip-over save. Apart from red-carding McDonald and MacKenzie, referee Smith booked Motherwell’s Smith (for his part in the bust up with MacKenzie) and Craigan, along with Milan Palenik and Eddie Malone. A vintage performance from the Dark Blues....

Livingston 1 Dundee 1, Almondvale, 09/02/08

Dundee boss Alex Rae has warned his faltering stars they can wave goodbye to their title dream unless they stop hiding on the pitch.Rae saw his stuttering side fall seven points behind Hamilton in the race for the SPL after the draw with Livi. Dee were unfortunate not to take the lead in seven minutes when Gary McKenzie's header smacked the post. But it was Livi who edged ahead in 26 minutes as Dundee's static defence failed to deal with Craig James' corner to allow Snodgrass to head home. Dundee were being outplayed but a minute before the interval were thrown a lifeline when ref Scott MacDonald awarded a penalty. Ex-Livi striker Colin McMenamin tumbled under pressure from Lee Makel and James McPake. Although home defender McPake won the ball the spot-kick was given. The decision incensed Livi but on-loan Hibs striker Antoine-Curier kept his cool to slot past Colin Stewart. Dundee rarely threatened after the break and had to rely on some fine saves from Ludovic Roy to deny Snodgrass and sub Leigh Giffiths. With four minutes to go Dundee lost Czech defender Milan Palenik when he collected a second booking for a foul on Steven Craig. A poor display from Dundee, and with Hamilton winning 3-0 the gap is now 7 points..at least StJohnstone got beat at Queen of the South..

Motherwell Game Off Again...

After two pitch inspections Dundee's game v Motherwell at Fir Park was called off, the new date is now Monday 11th of February. Won't make it now as down to work.

Scottish Cup Draw....

The winners of Tuesday’s Scottish FA Cup Fifth Round tie between Motherwell and Dundee will have a trip to Dumfries to face Queen of the South in the quarter finals.Full draw:
Queen of the South v Motherwell or Dundee
Ross County or St Johnstone v St Mirren or Dundee United
Hibernian or Rangers v Livingston or Partick Thistle
Aberdeen v Celtic
Dundee's game at Motherwell will have a pitch inspection at 09:00am tomorrow.

Game Off...................

The Scottish Cup fifth-round tie between Motherwell and Dundee at Fir Park has been postponed following a pitch inspection on Friday afternoon. The game will now be played on Tuesday night with a 19:45 kick-off.

Meanwhile Dundee have turned a offer from Kilmarnock for defender Paul Dixon, but he may move in the summer when his contracts runs out...

Transfer News From Dens Park......

Dundee have signed former Gretna defender David Cowan and Hibernian striker Mickael Antoine-Curier. Cowan was released at the beginning of the month having made 10 appearances for the Black and Whites this season and has signed until May. Antoine-Curier arrives on a loan deal from Easter Road but that arrangement could be extended. 

Meanwhile, full-back Paul Dixon is in talks with Kilmarnock about a potential move to Rugby Park. Frenchman Antoine-Curier arrived at Hibs in the summer from the Norwegian second division. Despite scoring four goals, he has found it difficult to hold down a regular starting place and is not in new manager Mixu Paatelainen's plans. 

Dundee 2 Queen of the South 3, Dens Park, 26/Jan/08

Dundee's Colin McMenamin scored a brace on his debut but sloppy defending cost his side the points. McMenamin opened his account in the 10th minute as the hosts looked impressive in the opening exchanges. But Dundee shipped three goals in five minutes with Sean O'Connor firing a double and Paul Burns sealing a dramatic comeback for the Doonhamers. McMenamin netted a late consolation and was also denied his hat-trick and an equaliser by the woodwork. The defence today just had a complete nightmare period for 7 minutes...Hamilton won 3-2 after being 2 nil down at Clyde....

Latest News From Dens Park...

Dundee have completed the pre-contract signing of Queen of the South defender Eric Paton.The 29-year-old will remain with the Doonhamers until the end of the season and move to Dens Park in the summer. Paton has spent five-and-a-half years at Palmerston, making 207 first-team appearances and scoring 10 goals.

Dundee tonight signed Colin McMenamin from Gretna for a undisclosed fee. The news was announced to shareholders at the AGM tonight. Should make his debut against Queen of the South at Dens this Saturday. More to follow.......The 26-year-old, who recently returned from a loan spell with Livingston, has signed an 18-month contract.
McMenamin started his senior career with Newcastle before heading for Livingston, Falkirk and Shrewsbury. He joined Gretna in 2006 and scored 24 goals in 52 goals but fell out of favour after their promotion to the Scottish Premier League. McMenamin was voted First Division player of the year last season. He scored three times in 10 appearances on his return to Division One with Livi this term and will now be hoping to experience his second promotion in a row.

Clyde 1 Dundee 1, New Broadwood, 19/Jan/08

Dundee grabbed a dramatic last-ditch equaliser to deny Clyde victory in the Cumbernauld side's first game since the departure of manager Colin Hendry. Poor underfoot conditions can't have helped matters as a scrappy first 45 minutes provided only two real chances. Even then, one of those chances wasn't entirely planned, Eddie Malone's curling corner deceiving everyone in the Clyde defence except goalkeeper David Hutton, who prevented the ball from crossing the line. Then a Scott Robertson cutback allowed Jani Sturm to force Hutton into turning his drive wide.The second half saw Clyde upping the tempo with Steven Masterton twice coming close with long-range efforts. Then, moments after Bell became the first coaching member to be sent to the stands for protesting a Steve Conroy decision, Clyde softened the blow by netting the opener as Arbuckle drilled in from 15 yards. Farrell and Bollan departed after fighting over the ball to leave neither side with leadership on the flanks, before Palenik headed in Bob Davidson's cross for a last-minute leveller. A vital point for the Dark Blues..but our strikers are not scoring and that is a worry.......Hamilton lost 3-0 at Firhill..

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

Dundee might have ex-Hearts player Jean Louis Valois the chance to earn a contract when they travel west to face Clyde at Broadwood tomorrow. The former Hearts man impressed during a trial game on Wednesday and, along with a young English striker, has been handed training facilities at Dens Park. Kevin McDonald misses the game due to suspension. Up front, Hamilton-bound Derek Lyle is serving a three-game league suspension and, in his absence, more will be sought from the strikers — it will be another two from three choice with Jani Sturm, Bob Davidson and Jan Zemlik challenging. There is a pitch inspection at Broadwood at 10:30 tomorrow morning.. due to heavy rain this afternoon..and late news is Clyde's manager Colin Hendry has resigned....

Derek Lyle has signed a pre-contract with title rivals Hamilton Accies, can't really see how he can stay at Dens Park now..his contracts runs until the end of the season. Brent Sancho played as a trialist yesterday in a bounce game v Hibernian...two other unnamed trialists played also....

Huntly 1 Dundee 3, Scottish Cup, Christie Park, 15/Jan/07

DUNDEE were given a tough time of it by Highland League Huntly last night before eventually winning through 3-1 in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup. The Christie Park tie had been rearranged after frost put paid to Saturday’s original fixture. The home side started brightly and both Russell Guild and Colin Robertson went close. Kevin McDonald replied for the visitors when he fired into the side netting. The match was fairly even for the first half hour but the Dark Blues broke the deadlock on 29 minutes through top scorer McDonald. Freddie Daquin made tracks down the right and delivered a great ball to Kevin McDonald, whose first effort was blocked by Neil Murray. The youngster made no mistake with his second attempt. Within two minutes of the restart the Christie Park side almost levelled when the ball broke to Bruce Cormie, but Eddie Malone got back to make a great saving tackle. Then, with just 13 minutes of the tie left the Dark Blues were shocked when the home side equalised. A free kick by Robertson was met by the head of substitute Keith Reid who diverted it past Dens keeper Craig Samson. Just three minutes later, though, and the Taysiders were back in front. This time they were awarded a free kick for a foul on Scott Robertson and Eddie Malone stepped up to curl the ball over the Huntly wall and into the net from 25 yards. Huntly almost levelled again when Reid set up Robertson, but he was blocked by David Worrell. Dundee put a better reflection on the final score when they netted again in the last minute. Again, Freddie Daquin was the man who mattered when he latched on to substitute Derek Lyle’s cross to stab the ball past Huntly keeper Stewart Gray.

Huntly Game Off .......And Other News

Dundee's game at Huntly was called off at 09:30, after a pitch inspection..it will be played this Tuesday with a 19:45 kick-off.

Kevin McDonald has been named the Irn-Bru First Division Young Player of the Month for December. The 19-year-old - who also won the award for August - signed a new contract last month at Dens Park. The midfielder has enjoyed an excellent season, McDonald hit four goals for Dundee in December during wins over Dunfermline, Stirling Albion, Morton and Partick.
He also attracted earlier bids this season from Celtic and Everton before opting to remain on Tayside.

Scottish Cup Build Up Away To Huntly.............

Dundee midfielder Paul McHale is back in the squad, having recovered from a sickness bug, and Gary McKenzie is back in training and could come into contention for Alex Rae's Dark Blues. The squad travelled up on friday and will be well prepaired. A 2,500 sell out is expected at Christie Park tomorrow to ensure a great atmosphere. Huntly's Gary McGowan misses the all-ticket clash with Dundee through suspension after being sent off in the 2-1 win at Forres last week. Our bus leaves at 10:00am..pitch inspection at 09:30..so fingers crossed..the forecast is good however..

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

Defender Danny Griffin is leaving Dundee after reaching an agreement with the club to terminate his contract. The 30-year-old moved to Dens Park from Aberdeen in June 2006 but has started just seven games this season. Colin McMenamin is in Dundee’s sights as they bid to boost their strikeforce. Dark Blues boss Alex Rae is searching for a proven forward and sees the 26-year-old, who is on loan with Livingston but is due to rejoin the Borders club later this month, as the man to fire the Dens men towards promotion. McMenamin scored 23 goals for the Black and Whites en route to the First Division crown last season so has the pedigree Rae is looking for and is likely to turn his back on making his switch to Livi permanent in favour of joining a team challenging Hamilton Accies for the title. Rumour is that Gretna want Derek Lyle in exchange, and Alex Rae does not want to lose him......Latest News From Dens Park: Danny Griffin has joined Ross County, and sadly for him he has injured himself. Alex Rae also rules out Derek Lyle moving to Gretna.

Dundee 0 Dunfermline Ath 0, Dens Park, 05/January/08

Dundee looked to attack from the off with Paul Dixon’s low ball intercepted by Gallagher ahead of Bob Davidson. Derek Lyle then combined with Bob Davidson as the latter chested the ball down for Lyle whose first touch set up the shot, and the second sending the ball goal wards but Gallagher got down to push the ball behind for a corner. In the 20th minute Mark Burchill looked to have the beating of the home defence to open the scoring but the former Dees front man was thwarted by the home keeper. Burchill looked to pass Samson on the right with only the keeper to beat, but somehow he got a fingertip to the ball to send the forward wide of the target before Scott Morrison’s rebound was plucked from the air by Samson. Just a minute later Danny Murphy cleared Milan Palenik’s header off the line from a Gavin Swankie corner before McDonald forced Gallagher into action from twenty yards. Craig Samson breathed a sigh of relief in the 27th minute after a kick up field from David Worrell’s pass back fell straight to Burchill who ran one on one with the keeper. His cut-back to Jim Hamilton looked destined for the top corner but Samson resurrected himself getting to and holding the ball while the defence struggled to come to his defence. Eddie Malone extended his stay at Dens Park this week as he signed a two and a half year contract, and although signed to strengthen the Dundee rearguard his attacking cross almost broke Dunfermline’s resistance. Derek Lyle attached himself to the cross with his header crashing against the crossbar, down onto the line and out as the Dundee fans re-took their seats from what they thought was the opener. The second half began much as the first half ended with a goal looking more and more likely. Paul Dixon’s slack header back to Samson was intercepted by Hamilton whose low shot was dragged wide and left the ex-Dee with his head in his hands. Paul Gallagher pulled off one of the saves of the match in the 57th minute as Derek Lyle’s thunderbolt was tipped around the post after link up play with Davidson. Craig Samson was then forced to save from Morrison on the break with Stevie Crawford failing to connect with the rebound. Calum Woods then connected with Crawford’s cross but Samson comfortably held the shot while Danny Murphy rose well to clear a Paul Dixon attempt with Lyle lurking in the area. Derek Lyle looked most likely in Dark Blue to open the scoring and he was again frustrated by Gallagher as the on-loan Norwich keeper tipped Lyle’s twenty five yard screamer over the crossbar. With fifteen minutes to go Gavin Swankie was replaced by Jan Zemlik while Dunfermline manager Jim McIntyre introduced himself and Iain Williamson in place of Jim Hamilton and Michael McGlinchey. There was action at either end as both teams looked for the winner: Eddie Malone’s shot blocked by Calum Woods and sub Williamson’s headed effort the best of a scrappy last fifteen minutes. A point sees the gap between Dundee and Hamilton stay at three points with both teams having a break from league business for two weeks as the third round of the Scottish Cup comes around.

Eddie Signs For Dundee....

Eddie Malone has signed for Dundee on a two and a half year contract. The left sided player has been on loan at Dundee from St Mirren for the last two months and the Club are delighted that they have now made that a permanent move. Another good signing..we need a striker and hope we get him..but he has to be SPL ready or a loan signing..

Dundee Sign Craig McKeown.....

Clyde defender Craig McKeown has signed a pre-contract deal with First Division Dundee. The Bully Wee had been negotiating with the defender to extend his contract at Broadwood but failed to agree terms. Clyde manager Colin Hendry told the club website he would be disappointed to see the player leave the club. "I fully expect Craig to continue to meet his obligations to us in the meantime before joining Dundee in the summer," said Hendry.
McKeown signed for Clyde from Dunfermline in 2005. Dundee are trying to sign him up now..

St.Johnstone 1 Dundee 1, McDiarmid Park, 02/01/08

Dundee's title charge was held up at McDiarmid Park as the Tayside derby ended in a tame draw with Saints. Both sides had chances in what was an otherwise poor first half, with Peter MacDonald's free-kick closest to breaking the deadlock for the hosts. The visitors edged ahead early in the second half when Kevin McDonald fired in his ninth goal of the season. Saints levelled when new boy Daniel McBreen's shot cannoned off former Dens Park man Steven Milne to equalise. Two points dropped, but a draw was a fair result...we need for our strikers to start scoring..they missed a few good chance today..