Ayr United 2 Dundee 2, Somerset Park, First Division, 14/October/09

Dundee threw away 2 points away at Somerset on Wednesday night, as Ayr United came back fron 2-0 down to earn a deserve point. They started well and scored a cracking goal in 13 minutes. Leigh Griffiths held off Martyn Campbell on halfway to collect a long clearance, his slipped ball inside to Sean Higgins took out two defenders and the cross-field ball found Craig Forsyth running through untracked to slot past Craig Samson.

Ironically, Tony Bullock was arguably the busier keeper in the first half, making two excellent and one merely good save from a trio of thunderbolt long-range free-kicks from Ryan Stevenson, plus one snap shot from United skipper Chris Aitken. Stevenson also had a terrific volley from a Mark Roberts knock-down deflected for a corner.However, Griffiths stole the show in the opening period. His movement had the Ayr defence at sixes and sevens while he had one superb run to force Samson to save. 

The young Scotland B cap also linked up with Forsyth to set-up Sean Higgins at the back post, but his header was palmed away for a corner by Samson. Earlier Forsyth had given early warning of what Dundee might do with a back post headed lay-off to Gary MacKenzie, whose ninth minute effort – the match's first genuine chance – was blocked on the line.Fifteen minutes into the second half Griffiths scored his tenth goal of the season, one which at that point looked to have sealed what would have been Dundee's first win on the road in the league thus far. United left him unmarked on the left and when Gary Harkins lifted an inch-perfect ball over the home defence to him, the teenager had the simplest of tasks in running through unmarked to beat Samson at his right post.This was the visitors' first chance of the second half, hitherto since the break, United had been on top, without overly-troubling the Dundee rearguard. Their best chance had actually come from a mis-hit Ryan McGowan 20-yarder, which was deflected inches past for a corner in the 50th minute.

However, Ayr never gave up and set up a fraught final 17 minutes for their visitors when they pulled a goal back in 73 minutes. Ryan Borris' deep cross was met by two Ayr players, both with the Christian name Ryan, but whether McGowan or Stevenson got the final touch is a point of some dispute. Stevenson milked the crowd's acclaim, McGowan got the congratulations from the United bench.However, there was no stopping Stevenson four minutes from time, when he rose unchallenged at the back post to head home a super overhead kicked pass from substitute David Gormley.

Dundee: Bullock, Paton, MacKenzie, Cowan, Malone, Forsyth, Klimpl, Kerr, Harkins, Griffiths, Higgins (McHale 84). Subs not used: Soutar, McMenamin, Lauchlan, Clarke. Booked: Klimpl, Griffiths.
Referee: J McKendrick.
Att: 1,710.

Latest News From Dens ..

Dundee striker Leigh Griffiths is the Irn-Bru Phenomenal young player of the month for September. The 19-year-old has netted eight times for the Dark Blues since his summer transfer from Livingston. Six of those goals came last month as Griffiths went some way to paying back his £150,000 fee. The Irn-Bru award is for the best young performer during September in the three divisions of the Scottish Football League.

Dundee play Ayr United on Wednesday at Somerset Park, we look to keep our good run going.

Dundee 2 Partick Thistle 0, Dens Park,First Division,10/October/09

Dundee got off to the best possible start when Leigh Griffiths opened the scoring after only four minutes when Eddie Malone picked him out with a free-kick and he trapped the ball brilliantly before poking it round goalkeeper Jonny Tuffey. He had another chance after 10 minutes when he found space at the back post, but blazed wildly over. From dominating the opening stages, Dundee dropped out of the contest for the remainder of the half as Thistle attacked them with gusto. They were fortunate to survive on 20 minutes when Buchanan cracked a volley which looked destined for the net until Maros Klimpl threw his body in the way. Then a mix-up between Bullock and David Cowan allowed Mark Corcoran to sneak in and feed Paul Cairney, but Bullock saved at the second time of asking. The Jags thought they had scored right before half-time when Donnelly found space and beat Bullock with a rising shot but unfortunately for the visitors, it cracked off the crossbar. Thistle were then incensed in the final minute of the half when referee Crawford Allan denied them a penalty when Buchanan was felled in the box. Dundee took only three minutes to go further in front though, as Partick switched off to Gary Harkins danger and left him too much space. The former Jags midfielder needed no second invitation to blast a 20-yard shot beyond Tuffey. Despite being two goals down, the Jags continued to dominate for long spells and were denied a further three times by Bullock, who saved from substitute Erskine twice and then from Donnelly late in the game.
Dundee: Bullock, Paton, Malone, Klimpl, MacKenzie, Cowan, Hart (McHale 82), Kerr, Griffiths (McMenamin 75), Higgins (Clarke 75), Harkins. Subs Not Used: Soutar, Casement.
Att:
Ref: C Allan
A great 3 points for the club, and they thank the defence today, with Tony Bullock and Dave Cowan both outstanding. Bully had 3 great stops, and it was good to hear the Dundee fans singing his name. We dug deep for this result and signing Maros Klimpl has been so vital, as he breaks up so many moves.

http://www.ptfc.co.uk/media/video/match_highlights/2009-2010/1010_dundee

Latest From Dens Park...

Dundee play Partick Th tomorrow in what should be a good game, bonus for the Dee is Colin McMenamin might be even on the bench. He has started training again, and as long as he suffers no reaction. Manager Jocky Scott has had them in for extra shooting practice, after missing a few against Annan Ath last Sunday.

Dundee's Jocky Scott is the Irn-Bru Phenomenal First Division manager of the month for September. The 61-year-old, in his third stint at the helm at Dens Park, endured a rocky start to the season.However, the Dark Blues rallied to win four of their five matches last month.
Scott engineered league wins over Dunfermline and Ross County as well as dumping Aberdeen out of the Co-operative Insurance Cup.

Tickets for the Cis Cup tie against Rangers have been selling well, with 3,000 being sold in the last 4 days. Tickets for The Alba Cup Final will go on sale at the end of the month. Dundee are getting 6,300 for the game.

Dundee 3 Annan Ath 0, Dens Park, Alba Cup Semi Final,04/October/09

Dundee booked their place in the Alba Challenge Cup final with a convincing win over Annan Athletic. Sean Higgins broke the deadlock with a scrappy strike eight minutes before the break at Dens Park. We missed a few chances but added a second through Pat Clark after good work by Higgins. Craig Forsyth pounced on poor Annan defending in the 70th minute to fire home the third from close range with a cool finish to seal victory. so we will play Inverness Caley Thistle in the final on 22nd of November to be played at McDiarmid Park.

Dundee 2 Ross County 0, Dens Park, First Division, 26/Sept/09.

In what was a vital game result wise..Dundee managed to gain all 3 points. Football terms it was pretty dire stuff. But Dundee won 2-0 so can't complain too much. The opening goal came on the hour mark courtesy of a blunder by County goalkeeper Michael McGovern, who came to collect a Gary Harkins corner but missed the ball entirely. It bounced off Danny Moore before falling for Leigh Griffiths to nod into the net from six yards. He got his second on 77mins when he rounded the County keeper to finish from a tight angle, a bit of class from the young striker. He was put through by a wonderful pass from Pat Clarke, who has impressed me so far coming on from the bench. So another vital 3 points and puts us back up amongst the league leaders.

Dundee: Bullock, Paton, Malone, Klimpl, MacKenzie, Cowan, Forsyth, Kerr, Griffiths (McHale 90), Higgins (Clarke 70), Harkins (Hart 85).Subs Not Used: Souter, Caseman.
Att: 4,682
Ref: David Somers

Latest From Dens Park

Dundee have signed former Aberdeen and Ross County goalkeeper Derek Soutar as cover until January. First choice number one Rab Douglas will miss three weeks after a calf injury forced him to leave the field during Tuesday's win over Aberdeen. The Dark Blues' other goalkeeper Tony Bullock faces a possible ban after his red card at Queen of the South in the league last weekend.

Dundee have won their appeal against the red card shown to goalkeeper Tony Bullock in last weekend's 2-0 defeat by Queen of the South in Division One. Bullock will not now be suspended for Saturday's visit of Ross County. The 37-year-old was sent off by referee Thomas Robertson for denying an obvious goalscoring opportunity after a challenge on David Weatherston.

The Co-operative Insurance Cup Round 4 match between Dundee and Rangers will be played at Dens Park on Tuesday 27 October 2009 with a 7.45pm kick off. Tickets are now on sale.

Cis Cup Draw

Co-operative Insurance Cup fourth-round draw
Celtic v Hearts
Dundee v Rangers
St Johnstone v Dundee United
St Mirren v Motherwell
The ties will be played in the week commencing 26 October.

Dundee 3 Aberdeen 2, Dens Park, Cis Cup, 22/September/09

Aberdeen started the game brightly, and forced Dundee back. We struggled in the first 20 mins or so. But started to come into and were knocking the ball about nicely. Rab Douglas in the Dundee goal had a busy enough time dealing with crosses and having punched one clear from another Aberdeen corner in the 25th minute, he landed awkwardly and immediately signalled to his bench and was replaced by Tony Bullock.It was the only real blow to Dundee in that opening 45 minutes that saw two penalty claims waved aside by the referee of the moment, Steve Conroy. The first was in the ninth minute when Craig Forsyth went down in the box, the second, at the other end, in the 31st minute, when Peter Pawlett crumbled when being challenged by David Cowan.Aberdeen had not conceded a goal since losing to Celtic over a month ago but Dundee ended that run, making the most of a great delivery as well as some poor Aberdeen defending. Gary Harkins' 39th minute corner was whipped across to the back post and Eddie Malone was able to rise well above his markers to head the ball down and past Jamie Langfield in the visitors' goal.Dundee were beginning to get under Aberdeen's skin but if they had been itching to get a second goal before the interval, they had a full-blown rash of chances after it. Their pace and movement were a constant trauma for the SPL defence and having been breached once, they looked more and more likely to cave again. The second half wasn't even 60 seconds old when Charlie Mulgrew and Langfield had to combine to smother the threat posed by McMenamin, while Harkins free-kick two minutes later was only just off target.It seemed that every Dundee pass out of midfield was slicing open the Aberdeen rearguard and willing runners such as McMenamin, Sean Higgins and Forsyth were delighted to get on the receiving end. McMenamin did exactly that in the 49th minute but with three Aberdeen defenders chasing in his wake and Langfield diving at his feet, he flicked the ball just wide of the post.The second goal did come in the 55th minute, though. Harkins ball cut through the defence and while McMenamin's first touch was poor, he showed the presence of mind to dink a cheeky back heel across the area to Forsyth and he drilled it into the roof of the net.McGhee reacted immediately, sending on both Chris Maguire and Michael Paton and it soon paid off. The latter got a goal back in the 62nd minute, sneaking the ball in at the near post from Mulgrew's corner and he added a second from a Miller lay-off with 88 minutes gone to take the match to extra time. I was a wee bit worried about extra-time, but we settle down and played some great football. And young striker Leigh Griffiths scored the winner, when he hit a right-footed screamer on the turn, after Jamie langfield dropped a cross. A great goal and Dundee went into the second period full of confiedence. Apart from one good save Tony Bullock had little to do, and Griffiths could have scored again with a header which skimmed the bar. Final whistle and we look forward to the 1/4 tie hopefully a home tie.

Dundee: Douglas (Bullock 26), Paton, MacKenzie, Cowan, Malone, Forsyth, Klimpl, Kerr, Higgins (Griffiths 74), McMenamin (Clarke 98), Harkins. Subs not used: Casement, McHale.

Queen of the South 2 Dundee 0, Palmerstone Park, First Division,19/September/09.

Dundee fell to their first League defeat of the season, they gave away a penalty after only 5 mins, when Tony Bulloch was shown a red card for pulling down David Weatherston and Tosh blazed the spot kick beyond substitute Rab Douglas. Dundee battlre away and had three great chances, with Leigh Griffiths and Craig Forsyth missing one on ones with the keeper. But Queens sealed the game when Holmes netted from close range. Despite the defeat this was a good enough performance to pick up points.
Dundee: Bullock, Paton, Malone, MacKenzie, Cowan, Klimpl, McHale (Forsyth 72), Cameron (Douglas 5), Harkins, Griffiths (Higgins 61), McMenamin. Subs Not Used: Casement, Kerr.
Att: 2,875
Ref: T Robertson

Latest From Dens Park

It looks like Rab Douglas will be fully fit for the trip to Dunfries on Saturday. Reports suggest that he will go back in to the first team. Tony Bulloch as done really well in the last two games, and proves to be really good backup. But the decision is now left to Jocky Scott who gets the nod on Saturday. Meanwhile it was good that DFC fans raised money last Sunday on the MacMillan zipline, I would have done it but again work came in the way. Read more from the link below:
http://www.thedees.co.uk/news_detail.asp?ID=2894

Dundee 1 Dunfermline Ath 0, Dens Park, First Division, 12/Sep/09

A 38th-minute penalty from Gary Harkins proved enough for Dundee as they gained a much-needed victory over the Pars. The visitors gave away a needless penalty when goalkeeper Greg Fleming dived in on Colin McMenamin. Harkins kept a cool head, slotting the spot-kick past Fleming, to claim 3 vital points. Dundee's win lifts them back into second place but the First Division favourites failed to put on a convincing performance.
Dundee: Bullock, Paton, Malone, Klimpl (Cameron 87), MacKenzie, Lauchlan (Cowan 72), McHale, Kerr, Griffiths (Higgins 85), McMenamin, Harkins.Subs Not Used: Douglas, Clarke.
Att: 5,326
Ref: Craig Thomson
I missed the last two games, so can't say how we played, but by reports says that we defended well, and good Gary McKenzie had a good game. As it will be a much needed boost.

Stirling Albion 1 Dundee 2, Forthbank Stadium, Alba Cup 1/4 Final,

Dundee striker Leigh Griffiths scored twice as the First Division side sealed a place in the Alba Cup semi finals. The visitors went ahead on 10 minutes when Griffiths benefited from a lucky ricochet, ran through and shot past Stirling Albion keeper Scott Christie. Griffiths scored his second after 26 minutes when he tucked away Richie Hart's cut-back from the right wing.
Albion pinned Dundee back after the break but could only manage a last-minute penalty from Stewart Devine.
Dundee: Bullock, Paton, Malone, Klimpl, MacKenzie (Forsyth 65), Benedictus (Lauchlan 25), Hart (Clarke 85), Kerr, McMenamin, Griffiths, Harkins. Subs Not Used: Geddes, Young.
Att: 1,277

Dundee Sign Maros Klimpl ..

Dundee have signed Slovakian international Maros Klimpl on a three-year deal. The 28-year-old spent last season on loan with Motherwell from Danish club Danish club FC Midtjylland. He has since been released from the final year of his Midtjylland contract and had been on trial at Cardiff City. Klimpl arrived at Motherwell as a centre-half but was converted to a holding midfield player and impressed in the role for the Steelmen. Maros also revealed that ex-dee Dusan Vrto had spoken well of the club, and so made his mind up to sign for the club.

Meanwhile Dundee striker Mickael Antoine-Curier has went on loan to Hamilton Accies until 1st of January 2010, he has fallen down the pecking order at Dens Park lately. Dundee will play Aberdeen in the next round of the Cis Cup, the game at Dens will be played on either 22/23 of September.

Airdrie United 1 Dundee 1,Excelsior Stadium, First Division, 29/August/09

Dundee again dropped 2 points for the third game in a row, but at least we did not get beat. I missed the game due to work so can only go by reports, to the game Dundee took the lead in 36 mins when Colin McMenamin picked up possession in midfield and was allowed to run forward before sending an unstoppable 20-yard shot high into Stephen Robertson's top right-hand corner.Airdrie hit back before the break when Darren Smith's cross was deflected into his own net by Jim Lauchlan.Play grew scrappy on the restart as Dundee struggled to break down a dogged Diamonds defence. Leigh Griffiths went close to finding a winner for the visitors when he forced a fine diving stop by Robertson. But Airdrie might have snatched it at the death when Smith's angled shot was saved by Tony Bullock.
Dundee: Bullock, Paton, Malone, McHale, Benedictus, Lauchlan, Cameron (Hart 68), Kerr, McMenamin, Griffiths (Higgins 76), Harkins. Subs Not Used: MacKenzie, Forsyth, Geddes.
Att: 1,516
Ref: S Nicholls

Forfar Ath 2 Dundee 4, Cis Cup, Station Park, 25/August/09

Mickael Antoine-Curier scored twice as Dundee cruised to a 4-2 win at Forfar in the Co-Operative Insurance Cup. Leigh Griffiths opened the scoring, then Antoine-Curier struck twice from close-range to make it three just after half an hour. Stephen Tulloch pulled a goal back in a crowded box shortly after the break to give the Loons some hope. Andy Tod's 67th-minute own-goal ended any hope of a comeback before Ross Campbell struck for a late consolation.
Dundee: Bullock, Casement (Kerr 80), Malone, Paton, Benedictus, Lauchlan, Cameron, Forsyth, Antoine-Curier, Griffiths, Harkins. Subs Not Used: MacKenzie, Higgins, McMenamin, Geddes.
Att: 1,929
Ref: S O'Reilly

Dundee 2 Inverness Caley Thistle 2, Dens Park, First Division, 22/August/09.

Dundee got their first test today when they played Inverness Caley Thistle, and the fans got their money's worth in a four goal thriller. Dundee started brightly and on nine minutes Sean Higgins set up Gary Harkins who cut inside his man to drill low under Ryan Esson's body from 20 yards. Inverness wasted little time in responding as they went straight up the park in search of an equaliser. Daniel Stratford cut the ball back for an unmarked Robert Eagle on 20 minutes. The former Norwich star should have netted but a brave goal-line block from Eric Paton kept the home side ahead. A minute later, Inverness were level as Sanchez sprang the offside trap and drilled the ball past Tony Bullock from ten yards. The scoring was never going to end there, though, and Dundee restored their advantage on 29 minutes. Colin McMenamin broke clear on the edge of the penalty box and saw his drive blocked by Grant Munro. However, McMenamin pounced on the rebound to cross for Harkins and he volleyed home his second strike of the afternoon. Again, though, Dundee lost their lead as Richie Foran cut the ball back for Cox to drill in his second goal in three games.Dundee started the second half brightest and Paul McHale was unlucky to see his 25-yard effort go over the top. Harkins then tried to complete his hat-trick on 62 minutes but his bending free-kick went over the top. However, as the game wore on, it was Inverness who seemed the more likely side and would have done but for some brave goalkeeping from Bullock. Cox had a golden opportunity to carve out the winner on 70 minutes as he picked the ball up 25 yards from goal and with only Bullock to beat seemed a cert to score, but the keeper parried. Sanchez followed up with the rebound only to fire a tame effort wide. Moments later, Sanchez was again found wanting as he took a fresh-air swipe at a Foran pass with the goal at his mercy. And in the final moments, Harkins cracked the post with a free kick to leave the game tied at 2-2.

Dundee: Bullock, Paton, Malone, McHale, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Hart (Cameron 78), Kerr, McMenamin, Higgins (Griffiths 67), Harkins. Subs Not Used: A Trialist, Casement, Antoine-Curier.
Att: 5,507
Ref: M Tumilty

My MoM was Gary Harkins who was different class, again we lost bad goals and we must tighten up at the back.

Cowdenbeath 0 Dundee 3, Central Park, Alba Cup, 18/August/09

Dundee went into the next round of the Alba Cup with a comfy 3-0 win over Cowdenbeath. In a poor first half they lead when Leigh Griffiths scored from a McHale cross in 20 mins. The 3-5-2 formation did not work and was changed at half-time, but just before that Antoine-Curier was unlucky not to scored but he could not finish from a tight angle after going round the keeper, put clear by a great Griffiths pass. Second half and it was back to 4-4-2, and it worked well with Griffiths in great form, and so unlucky in not adding to his tally. First the Cowden keeper made a great one handed save, and from the rebound his shot was cleared off the line. Then he hit the post with a powerfull strike, Sparky went off after 70 min with McMenamin coming on. Gary Harkins came on as well just before replacing Paul McHale, and it was Harkins who made it 2-0 with a sizzling 30 yard strike with gave the keeper no chance. Cowdenbeath still tried to play football and came forward to press Dundee. But in a flowing move a piece of majic from Gary Harkins..looking one way the passing the ball inside the other way which let Cowan cross and Antoine-Curier netted with a header to make the final score 3-0. A good enough workout, but not a great performance with Brian Kerr and Leigh Griffiths were Dundees best players on the night.
Dundee: Bullock, Cowan, Benedictus, Lauchlan, Forsyth, Casement, McHale (Harkins 66), Cameron, Kerr, Antoine-Curier, Griffiths (McMenamin 70). Subs Not Used: Geddes, Rennie, Timmons.
Att: 457
Ref: G Salmond

My MOM goes to Leigh Griffiths who is getting close to his match fitness and sharpness.

Raith Rovers 2 Dundee 2, Starks Park, First Division, 15/August/09.

Dundee started brightly and took the lead after just 5 mins, Gary Harkins beat three men and was fouled in the box, he took the kick himself to score and send the hugh Dundee support wild with celebration. After this the game swung from one end to the other, with Raith giving as good as they got. They did draw level when a cross from Smith completed caught Dundee's defence out and Williamson scored at the back post, Dundee seemed now to have fallen out of the game, and Raith scored again just before half time. This time a corner was headed back across goal, somehow Tade missed the ball, but Dundee failed to clear and Ellis netted from six yards. Second half and Dundee came out and straight away looked a different team, they created some great chance and one bit of skill from Harkin's when he chipped the keeper, it came off the bar and somehow Colin McMenamin misses from a few yards out. But Dundee scored in 73 minutes when a long throw from keeper Bullock with sent Harkins clear down the wing , and he found McMenamin who scored with a great finish. the game now at 2-2 and Dundee pushed again and Gary McKenzie just failed to net from a few yards out. Rovers were still dangerous on the break, and it was a good end to end game of football.

Dundee: Bullock, Paton, Malone, McHale (Forsyth 84), MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Hart (Kerr 62), Cameron, McMenamin, Higgins (Griffiths 67), Harkins. Subs Not Used: Cowan, A Trialist.
Att: 4,744
Ref: C Richmond

My MoM goes to Gary Harkins, his skill and passing are a joy to watch, and he will get better as the team gels. Next stop is Cowdenbeath on Tuesday night in the Alba Cup Kick-off 19:30.

Dundee 1 Morton 0, Dens Park, Division One, 08/August/09.

A big crowd is inside Dens for the opening game against Morton, the game got underway and Dundee nearly got off to the perfect start when striker Colin McMenamin turning swiftly to fire in a snap-shot which keeper Bryn Halliwell did well to smother.It was never going to be easy and they faced the kind of obdurate opposition some would rather avoid at this stage.Peter Weatherson's flashing header as the first half simmered along proved that, with deputy Dark Blues keeper Tony Bullock relieved to see it flashing wide from Stevie Masterton's whipped corner.Then Jim Lauchlan was yellow-carded for rather crudely pulling back Weatherson before defensive partner Gary MacKenzie joined him in the referee's book for tripping Jim McAllister.McMenamin had another opportunity within minutes of the restart. Richie Hart's cross was near-perfect but despite his best efforts he couldn't connect at the far post.Sean Higgins, another close-season recruit, was denied by the outstretched hand of Halliwell in 55 minutes when you sensed a breakthrough wasn't far away.That arose in 56 minutes. Harkins' precise pass found Paul McHale whose centre picked out Higgins for him to cutely tuck the ball into the far corner of the net.The sense of relief simply spread. Scott's sides have never been known to go for the jugular although they did have openings in which they could have extended their lead, notably substitute Griffith's header from Harkins' angled cross going just a matter of inches wide before the end. Gary Harkins also hit the post after beating 4 men, he looks a great player and the steal of the season on this form.

Dundee: Bullock, Paton, Malone, McHale, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Hart, Cameron (Kerr 75), McMenamin (Griffiths 68), Higgins, Harkins (Forsyth 87). Subs Not Used: A Trialist, Casement.
Att: 5,449
Ref: C Boyle

Good win for Dundee, and sets up the visit to Raith Rovers on Saturday, Gary Harkins was my MOM.

Lastest From Dens Park...

Colin Cameron has signed a new 1 year deal, after proving his fitness to manager Jocky Scott, Cameron’s deal will not be the last of the business done at Dens, with the manager keen to add two new defenders. Scott is in talks with a left-back and a centre-half. Its looks like Rab Douglas will miss the game v Morton, but Eric Paton should be fit. Really looking forward to today's game and the season in general.

Dundee 3 Royal Antwerp 3, Dens Park, Friendly, 03/August/09

Dundee lost a bad goal after just six minutes as a simple pass from Emmanuel Kenmogne, in behind Jim Lauchlan, released midfielder Marcos Roberto Rocha to lift the ball over the diving Tony Bullock and into an empty net. Front man Leigh Griffiths missed an opportunity to level when shooting straight at keeper Vincent van Trier while Gary MacKenzie looked to have equalised when powering in a header from Brian Kerr’s corner only for Bas Vervaeke to clear off the line as the Dark Blues pushed for parity. They really ought to have achieved it midway through the first-half when Mickael Antoine-Curier did well to steer the ball low across goal, taking out van Trier in the process. But with the goal at his mercy, Craig Forsyth, arriving just beyond the far post crashed his finish off the upright. Forsyth quickly made amends though, picking out Griffiths with a superb low cross that the former Livingston striker fired into the roof of the net. Antwerp, somewhat against the run of play, got their noses back in front on 31 minutes when Matthias Trenson finished off a fine overlapping run by picking out Darko Pivaljevic who rose above Forsyth and headed home via the inside of the post. But Dundee squared again within three minutes after Antoine-Curier, off a Gary Harkins feed, finally forced the ball home after his initial close-range finish came back off the woodwork. 2-2 at half-time it was a very lively friendly, with plenty goal mouth action.However the second half did not match , until the last 15 mins or so. Another terrific Forsyth delivery should have resulted in the Dark Blues taking the lead for the first time in the game but Antoine-Curier somehow failed to apply the neccessary finish. And Griffiths was thwarted by a decent block from Van Trier.
However, Antwerp always offered a threat and on 82 minutes Emmanuel Kenmogne poked a Geoffry Hairemans cross past Bullock. With a minute to go, though, substitute McMenamin slotted the ball past van Trier to save his side from defeat. A great move and right at the death only a terrific save from the Belgian keeper prevented Colin Cameron from snatching a victory.
Dundee:Bullock, Casement (Cowan 74), Malone (McMenamin 80), Kerr, MacKenzie, Lauchlan (Benedictus 65), Forsyth, Young(Cameron 87), Curier, Griffiths (Clarke 74), Harkins (Hart 46). Subs:Geddes, Higgins.
Att: 1,426
Referee:Matt Northcroft.

My MOM goes to Leigh Griffiths, he looks such a huge talent, and will score goals with his pace , movement and teamwork. The future looks good and really looking forward to this Saturday's game v Morton at Dens. Also a mention for The Antwerp fans, who backed their team well, hope they had a good time in Dundee. Heard some made Fat Sam's...

Dundee 5 Stranraer 0, Dens Park, Cis Cup, 01/August/09.

Dundee won 5-0 with goals from Sean Higgins(23),Gary Harkins(29), a double from Colin McMenamin(47+57) and a penalty from Leigh Griffiths(67). By reports Gary Harkins was outstanding..
Dundee: Bullock, Paton (Casement 49), Malone, McHale, Benedictus, Lauchlan, Hart, Cameron (Kerr 68), Higgins, McMenamin (Griffiths 55), Harkins. Subs Not Used: Forsyth, Geddes.
Attendance: 2,345
Referee: W Collum
Match report below..
http://www.thedees.co.uk/news_detail.asp?ID=2805

Forfar Ath 0 Dundee 1, Station Park, Friendly, 28/July/09.

Dundee won 1-0 at Forfar thanks to a Gary Harkins goal in the 75th minute, the midfielder scored from a free kick. Match report : http://www.thedees.co.uk/news_detail.asp?ID=2799 I missed the two last games due to work.

Arbroath 1 Dundee 1, Gayfield, Friendly, 27/July/09.

Dundee were held to a 1-1 draw against Arbroath at Gayfield last night. Paul Lunan gave the Lichties the lead after 63 minutes.However, their advantage was short-lived as Mikael Antoine-Curier netted for the visitors shortly after and despite some heavy pressure Arbroath hung on for a deserved draw.
Dundee: Bullock, Casement, Forsyth, McHale, Benedictus, Lauchlan (Timmons), Hart, Paton, Higgins, Cameron, Curier. Subs not used: Gray, Stark, Webster, Geddes.

Match report : http://www.thedees.co.uk/news_detail.asp?ID=2796 Meanwhile striker Bryan Deasley has went out on loan to Forfar for the rest of the season.

Dundee 1 Aberdeen 1, Dens Park, Friendly, 25/July/09.

Aberdeen got off to a belter of a start. Pace is the one thing the Pittodrie boss says the current squad has in abundance, so it was fitting that they were so quick off the mark. Only 13 seconds had elapsed when Stuart Duff played in Sone Aluko and he slotted the ball beyond Rab Douglas.If it was a bright start, it was also a bit of a false dawn. The game didn't exactly fizz into a frenzy. As is so often the case at such an embryonic stage of the season the play struggled to find any kind of urgency and a European tie seemed a million miles away. Dundee played their way back into it, putting the Aberdeen defence under pressure in the 21st minute. Andrew Considine could not get the ball cleared and having obstructed all-comers as he sought a lifetime to clear from the edge of his own box was eventually penalised, the referee awarding an indirect free-kick on the perimeter of the 18-yard box. Richie Hart touched it into the path of Eric Paton and he drilled it low into the bottom corner. Aberdeen had the opportunity to move ahead again a couple of minutes before half-time when Lee Miller was brought down in the box. But the striker's penalty was poor and Douglas saved.The second half started with Dundee manager Jocky Scott demonstrating the strength and depth he now has after a summer of transfer activity. He made nine changes, leaving just Eddie Malone and Hart from the starting line-up, and it allowed for a little bit of history with the Young brothers lining up against each other for the first time. Derek had begun the match for Aberdeen and was marshalling the same midfield area as his brother Darren after the interval. Dundee later switched Hart for Mickael Antoine Courier, while Aberdeen also shuffled things around. Darren Mackie got to stretch his legs, while Faoroese defender Rogvi Holme was also given an outing along with youngsters Sammy Stewart and Scott Ross.The changes gave the home side greater impetus and what little goalmouth action that came along after the break was courtesy of the First Division side. Craig Forsyth, cutting in from wide left of the Dundee midfield, bore down on Jamie Langfield's goal but the keeper was out to cut the angle and block the shot.It is a warning for the rest of the First Division and adds credence to the Dens Park side's status as one of the early favourites for promotion. But it is also a gentle warning for Aberdeen. They have bigger things to focus on this week and will have to raise their play accordingly.

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale, McKeown, Benedictus, Hart, Kerr, McMenamin, Desley, Harkins.

I thought all the new players done well, and it's great we were able to field 2 different team nearly, I'm looking forward to the new season.

Borussia Monchengladbach 2 Dundee FC 0, 22/July/09

Dundee lost 2-0 to German side Borussia Monchengladbach, manager Jocky Scott was happy with the way Dundee played. 

FC Augsburg 2 Dundee FC 0, 21/July/09

Dundee lost 2-0 to German side FC Augsburg, the game played in Austria. 

Latest From Dens Park..

Dundee will play Royal Antwerp at Dens Park to finish their pre-season buildup.The Belgians will visit Dens Park on Monday, August 3. Royal Antwerp narrowly missed out on promotion to the Belgian First Division last season. Having finished third top of division two they safely negotiated the knock-out stage of the play-offs. But with Belgium’s top flight being reduced to 16 teams this term there was then a four-club round-robin competition for just one place and they lost out. Late news: Goalkeeper RabDouglas flew back to Scotland yesterday in search of a cure for an achilles tendon problem. Douglas left Dundee’s training camp in Uttendorf at lunchtime, aiming to make a hastily arranged appointment with a specialist in Edinburgh late last night. It’s not thought the complaint is serious but the Dark Blues decided to move swiftly in dealing with it in order to minimise the extent to which the players’ preparations for the new season might be disrupted. Meanwhile Dundee’s line up for the match v FC Augsburg will be: Bullock, Cowan, Malone, MacKenzie, Benedictus, Kerr, McHale, Young, Hart, McMenamin, Forsyth.
Tonight’s opponents are from the second Bundesliga, where for the past two years they have only narrowly avoided relegation.

Austrian Update...

Dundee arrived safely in Austria and got good training session's in on Friday. But torrential rain and thunder and lightning storms swept the Alps, Saturdays game against FC Hallwang was cancelled. With the downpoar the Dark Blues could not do the training they had planned. But the good news is on Monday they are back to their schedule. And now they will play in a glamour clash with top German outfit Borussia Monchengladbach on Wednesday. There will be plenty of opportunity now for the players to see action, and tomorrow’s clash with FC Augsburg means there will be two games in 24 hours before the squad fly home on Thursday to make ready for Aberdeen’s visit to Dens on Saturday. After his injury problems, defender Chris Casement will not be ready for either of the two midweek outings, but he has resumed full training and that’s a bonus. Goalkeeper Rab Douglas is feeling a calf and that’s restricting his work, but he is not causing concern.

Pre Season Games

Dundee will play FC Augsburgh in Austria on 21st of July, followed by games v Aberdeen at (Home) 25/July. Then Arbroath (Away) 27/July, followed by Forfar (Away) 28/July.

Dundee Sign Gary Harkins

Dundee FC have completed the signing of midfielder Gary Harkins from Partick Thistle for a fee of about £150,000. The 24-year-old, who scored 11 goals last season, had a year of his contract to run with the Glasgow club. Gary has signed a three year deal, it's a very good signing for the club, which will get the fans excited about next season. I'm really looking forward to next season.

Dundee Sign Brian Kerr...............

Dundee have completed the signing of former Inverness midfielder Brian Kerr on a free transfer. The 28-year-old left the relegated club at the end of the season after a short-term deal. Kerr trained with his new team-mates for the first time on Monday as they began their pre-season regime. He is the sixth summer addition to the Dens Park club after Leigh Griffiths, Chris Casement, Richie Hart, Sean Higgins and Pat Clarke. Kerr began his career at Newcastle, going on loan to Coventry and Livingston, before landing a permanent deal at Motherwell in 2004. His appearances at Fir park were limited due to a nine-month lay-off with a cruciate knee ligament injury. In 2007, the player moved to Hibernian and was a regular under John Collins, but he fell out of favour with the manager's successor, Mixu Paatelainen, and his contract was terminated in September 2008. Looks to be a good signing for the club.

Dundee Sign Leigh Griffiths

Great day for Dundee FC, they sign Leigh Griffiths on a 3 year deal, and reveal new Home ans Away strips , with new sponsors. Not too sure of the new strips, but will get my season ticket tomorrow..

Dundee Sign Chris Caseman

As expected Dundee have completed the signing of defender Chris Casement this afternoon. The 21 year old right back or centre half joins up on a three year contract after being released by Ipswich Town. Hopefully more signing this week, and if so it will build up Jocky Scott's squad quite nicely. I will get my season ticket this week. 

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

Dundee are being linked with Chris Casement, who has just left Ipswich Town, also the club are in talks with Livingston about long term target Leigh Griffiths, also linked with a move to the Dark Blues is exHibs, Motherwell, Inverness Caley Th midfielder Brian Kerr. Next week will see if these deals happen. 

Dundee Sign Pat Clarke....

Dundee have signed Pat Clarke on a three contract, the striker will give manager Jocky Scott more options next season. Welcome to Dens Park Pat, also reports say we are close to signing Brian Kerr. Ex player David O'Brien has signed for Ayr United.

Why I Started Doing This..............

It was because of changed shifts at my work..I had more days off in the month, also the 5 asides i used to play has broken up after about 20 years. So I decided to start cycling as a way to get some exercise, and also spend some time out in the summer weather.

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

Reports say that DUNDEE have won the race to sign Gary Harkins for a fee of £100,000. The Partick Thistle midfielder is expected to put pen to paper before the week is out. Meanwhile, the Dens men will head to Austria next month for pre-season training. They will be at the Obertraun complex near Hallstatt from July 16 to 23 and hope to fix up one game. 

Latest News From Dens Park.....

Dundee have failed in their bid to sign midfielder Gary Harkins, after the club’s £100,000 offer failed to tempt Partick Thistle to part with the player. The Jags are understood to be looking for a fee in the region of £175,000.

Manager Jocky Scott will look elsewhere, and is talking to two players about possible deals.

Dundee goalkeeper Ludovic Roy has signed for Queen of the South. The 31-year-old Roy was not offered a new contract by First Division rivals Dundee, who he joined in 2006 but played for just once this season. He has been kept out of the first team by the superb form of Rab Douglas. He leaves Dens with our best wishes.

Statement From Bob Brannan

Below is a statement from Dundee FC chairman Bob Brannan, it should clear things up.

http://www.dundeefc.co.uk/news_detail.asp?ID=2738

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

Dundee are looking forward to a six-figure boost to their signing kitty for next season courtesy of old boy Kevin McDonald’s imminent arrival in the English Premier League .One of the clauses in the deal that took the Scotland Under-21 star to Burnley a year ago stated the Dark Blues would get extra money if the Clarets got promotion. McDonald was an unused sub. as that happened via a play-off victory over Sheffield United at Wembley yesterday.

It has been reported that Dens Park , the home of Dundee FC, is owned by someone who is about to rejoin the Dundee United board. John Bennett, who quit his role as a director at Tannadice last September, has been revealed as the current owner of the Dark Blues’ home. However, the millionaire former boss of property surveyors J. & E. Shepherd is also understood to be on his way back to the Tangerines’ boardroom. Should that happen, fans would face the unprecedented situation of a United director owning the place where their local rivals play their matches. He is also claimed to have given Dundee use of the ground rent free for the next 30 months while holding talks with new Dens director, Calum Melville, about selling the stadium to him for a fee in the region of £1 million. To make matters even more intriguing Bennett, who has already invested heavily in the Dark Blues, is also reported to have an option to buy a 60% interest in Dundee FC for £1, and to have purchased the Dens club’s alleged £7.5 million debt from their bank for around £500,000. Bennett, who pulled the plug on a takeover of Dundee at the 11th hour last October, is a regular spectator at games at Tannadice despite his interest in the city’s other club.

Dundee are set to make an improved offer for Partick Thistle midfielder Gary Harkins after their first bid was rejected by the Jags.Partick are holding out for a six-figure fee for the 24-year-old and, while the Dark Blues may not go that high, the clubs are still talking and edging closer to a deal.

Dundee Sign Hart and Higgins................

Dundee manager Jocky Scott has signed Ross County's Richie Hart and Sean Higgins on two-year deals, the pair moving under freedom of contract. Higgins, 24, will add to Scott's striking options next season at Dens Park, while former Inverness player Hart will bolster the Dees' midfield. Hart began his senior career at County in 1996 before moving to Brora Rangers in 1999, where he spent three seasons. He signed for Inverness Caledonian Thistle and made 141 appearances for the Highlanders, then moved back to Ross County in 2008.

Dundee 4 Partick Th 0, Dens Park, First Division, 09/May/09

Dundee took the lead after 32 seconds through Darren Young, after Andrew Shinnie's corner from the right wasn't properly cleared. With nothing else in his thoughts but to let fly, his effort from 20 yards took a fair deflection off a Thistle defender on its way into the net, beyond the despairing dive of Jags keeper Jon Tuffey.Having finished a close second in the league, Thistle had also wanted to finish with a flurry for the sake at least of their travelling support, albeit Marc Twaddle's downward header from a Paul Paton cross was about all they had to show for their efforts before the break. And they fell further behind when Dundee struck again in 34 minutes.It was simple stuff, with Canadian Chris Pozniak releasing McMenamin who kept his cool before rounding Tuffey before slotting home from an angle.Dundee dominated after the break and deserved to extend their lead still further in 69 minutes when McMenamin stole a yard on his marker to convert Bryan Deasley's near-post cross. Then, with 15 minutes left, McMenamin completed the rout as he calmly picked his spot to leave Tuffey helpless from 12 yards. Ludo Roy and Freddie Daquin came on late to say their goodbyes to the home support.
Dundee : Douglas (Roy 83), Cowan, Malone, Benedictus, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Shinnie (Daquin 85), Posniak, McMenamin, Deasley, Young. Subs Not Used: Williams, Gilhaney, Grant.
Att : 2,831
Ref : S O'Reilly
A good win for Dundee, but the hard work starts now, I hope that they can really improve the squad with new signings. Thanks to Andrew Shinnie and Giorgos Efrem who have done really well for the club since arriving on loan. My Player of the Year goes to Rab Douglas, just from Eric Paton. Goals from the game. Link below.
http://www.ptfc.co.uk/media/video/2008-2009/highlights/0905_dundee

Bids Accepted....................

Dundee have had bids accepted by First Division rivals Livingston for Dave MacKay and Murray Davidson. Both men will now have to decide whether they would be interested in a switch to Tayside. It would be the second spell at Dens Park for full-back MacKay, 29, who spent six years there before joining Oxford United in 2005. Midfielder Davidson, 21, came through the youth system at Almondvale, making his first-team debut last season. A number of other clubs have also indicated their interest in signing the Livingston duo. Rumour says they were both at Dens yesterday for talks.

New Contracts For Three Dens Men...............

Dundee have had a six-figure bid rejected by First Division rivals Livingston for striker Leigh Griffiths.The Dens Park club on Thursday submitted a written offer for the 18-year-old despite having had a verbal offer refused 24 hours earlier.Griffiths, who has scored 18 goals so far this season, trained recently with English Premier League club West Brom.Experienced Defender Jim Lauchlan yesterday signed a new one-year contract with Dundee.And last night the 32-year-old spoke of his pleasure and relief at extending his stay at Dens Park.In addition to re-signing Lauchlan, Scott has given frontman Bryan Deasley and defender Craig Forsyth new two-year contracts.Deasley’s future had seemed in a little doubt because while he’d started six games on the bounce after Scott returned to the club, he then found himself on the fringes of the first-team for a spell, only starting to feature again, generally as a substitute, in the closing weeks of the campaign.Forsyth (20) has spent much of the present campaign on-loan to Arbroath.

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

Dundee manager Jocky Scott has started his squad rebuilding for next season after announcing that four first-team players are leaving Dens Park. Ludovic Roy, Freddie Daquin, David O'Brien and Bob Davidson are all to leave when their contracts expire. Goalkeeper Roy joined from Livingston in 2006, while winger Daquin enjoyed spells at Hibs and Dunfermline. Winger O'Brien signed from Stirling Albion in 2007 and defender Davidson joined from Rangers at the same time. The Dens Park board have confirmed that an extra 25% on this season's transfer budget will be made available to Scott. And the board pledged that the club will match pound-for-pound season tickets bought by fans.

Clyde 2 Dundee 0, Broadwood Stadium, First Division, 02/May/09

Dundee lost this game to a battling Clyde side, they went behind in 53mins when Andrew Shinnie deflected a shot into his own net. With 13 mins to go Willie McLaren scored from a tight angle which beat Rab Douglas. But sadly for The Bully Wee, Partick Th scored a late goal to seal Clyde fate to the Second Division.
Dundee: Douglas,Cowan, Malone,Benedictus,Lauchlan(Williams) Efrem,Shinnie,McMenamin,Deasley,O'Brien(Gilhaney) Subs not used:Posniak,Daquin,Roy. Att: 944
Ref: A.Muir.
Another poor result for Dundee, and I think Manager Jocky Scott has a big rebuilding job to do.

Latest News From Dens Park...

For the trip to Clyde tomorrow Dundee have injury problems. Definitely out are suspended pair Mikael Antoine-Curier and Gary MacKenzie, along with the injured Eric Paton, Craig McKeown and Paul McHale. Doubts of varying degrees also hang over Colin Cameron, David Cowan, Mark Gilhaney, Giorgios Efrem and Darren Young. Dundee have had a six-figure bid rejected by First Division rivals Livingston for striker Leigh Griffiths. The Dens Park club on Thursday submitted a written offer for the 18-year-old despite having had a verbal offer refused 24 hours earlier. Griffiths, who has scored 18 goals so far this season, trained recently with English Premier League club West Brom. Griffiths’ Livi team-mate Dave Mackay could still make his way back to Dens, and that Sean Higgins of Ross County will be a Dark Blue next term is a near certainty.

Dundee 0 St Johnstone 1, Dens Park, First Division, 25/April/09

Steven Milne gave St Johnstone the most perfect of starts, poking a shot home after only two minutes following a great move between Collin Samuel and Gary Irvine which saw the latter try to shoot from an acute angle but succeed instead in teeing up his team-mate perfectly. Effectively, that first goal ended the contest because, despite Dundee's words of defiance pre-match, nothing much materialised from them and Dens Park manager Jocky Scott was left in no doubt about the size of rebuilding job required before next season.Goalkeeper Rab Douglas, one player who will remain in place next season, denied Saints several times with particularly good saves preventing Milne from adding another and then turning a Liam Craig free-kick round the post. He was also fortunate to see St Johnstone captain Kevin Rutkiewicz miss a routine header seconds before half-time. Dundee's enigmatic striker Mickael Antoine-Curier, often their best chance of a goal but, on the flip side, a liability when not in the mood, killed off any hopes his side had of getting back into the contest after the interval by hitting Martin Hardie with a crude elbow. For this indiscretion he was ordered off by referee Mike McCurry and will find his wage packet lightened by his manager.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, Posniak (O'Brien 61), Benedictus, Lauchlan, Shinnie, Young, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier, Efrem (Deasley 78).Subs Not Used: Williams, Daquin, Roy.
Sent Off: Antoine-Curier (62).
Att: 6,305
Ref: M McCurry

Latest From Dens Park...

Rumour has it Freddie Daquin has left Dundee and returned to France, it has still to be confirmed. The game v St Johnstone on Saturday is all ticket now, and are on sale now. Meanwhile Colin McMenamin has signed a new 2 year contract, talks have been going on since January.

Livingston 0 Dundee 1, Almondvale Stadium, First Division, 18/April/09.

A goal from Darren Young guided Dundee to victory despite the visitors having been on the back-foot for long spells.Livingston created the best chance of the first half when Liam Fox hit the woodwork from 25 yards and the same player repeated the trick on the hour.Dundee took the lead seconds later when Young knocked in the rebound after Roddy McKenzie produced a stunning save to deny Mickael Antoine-Curier. The Dees win was slightly tainted when Gary MacKenzie was sent off late on.

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Dundee : Douglas, Cowan, Malone, Benedictus, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Shinnie, Posniak, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier, Young. Subs Not Used: Roy, Williams, O'Brien, Deasley, Davidson.

Att : 1,988

Ref : E Norris

Dundee 0 Airdrie Und 1, Dens Park, First Division, 11/April/09.

Simon Lynch scored the only goal as Airdrie picked up three points in a dire game with Dundee at Dens Park. Dundee made a bright start but Airdrie made note of their intent when John Baird's dipping effort went just over the bar after 16 minutes.Lynch did the damage after 18 minutes, cashing in on poor defending to fire low past Rab Douglas from eight yards. Dundee's last chance came in stoppage time but Colin Cameron's 20-yard free-kick was deflected over.

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Dundee : Douglas, Paton, Malone, Williams (Young 69), MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Shinnie, Cameron, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier, Gilhaney (Deasley 81).
Subs Not Used: Roy, Benedictus, Posniak.

Att : 2,870

Ref : C Boyle

Morton 2 Dundee 0, Cappielow Park, First Division,

Morton striker Peter Weatherson scored twice as the Greenock side leapfrogged their opponents from Tayside. Weatherson powered in a fierce header from seven yards after good work from Jim McAlister on 29 minutes.The win was secured when Weatherson glanced home a Stevie Masterton corner 11 minutes from time.Alex Walker and Allan McManus denied Dundee with goal-line clearances, while Paul McHale and Brian Gilhaney hit the woodwork for the visitors.

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Dundee : Douglas, Paton, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Malone, Shinnie (Williams 79), McHale, Cameron, Gilhaney, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier. Subs Not Used: Roy, Benedictus, Posniak, Deasley.
Att : 2,133
Ref : C Murray

Dunfermline Ath 1 Dundee 1, East End Park, First Division,

Dunfermline rescued a point against Dundee with Calum Woods scoring in the last minute to cancel out Eddie Malone's opener for the visitors. Jamie Mole and Nicky Phinn threatened for the Pars before Dundee took a 61st-minute lead.Mark Gilhaney capitalised on a defensive mix-up to set up Malone, who fired into an empty net.Dundee's Mickael Antoine-Curier missed an open goal before Woods' impressive strike drew the home side level.

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Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, Williams, Benedictus, Lauchlan, Gilhaney, Cameron, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier, O'Brien.
Subs Not Used: Posniak, Daquin, Young, Deasley, Roy.

Att: 2,382

Ref: D McDonald

Ross County 1 Dundee 1, Victoria Park, First Division,

Nine-man Dundee saw their promotion hopes dented by Ross County's last-gasp equaliser at Victoria Park. After a scoreless first half, Mickael Antoine-Curier fired the visitors in front in the 66th minute.Dundee's Paul McHale received a second booking on 85 minutes and team-mate Gary MacKenzie was dismissed in injury time for serious foul play.And from the free-kick awarded following MacKenzie's offence, Sean Higgins levelled for County.

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Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Gilhaney (Williams 89), Cameron, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier, O'Brien (Posniak 89).

Att: 2,296

Ref: M Tumilty

Latest News.

Just to let you know the blog will be updated in May, I'm on Holiday just now. Based in Sunny Hot Manila. I will be home on the 30th of April. The Dundee scores have been very disappointing. We now must build for next season.Mon The Dee...

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

Colin Cameron and Darren Young are back in training, and will be in the squad which travels to Dingwall on Friday night. Missing will be on loan pair Andrew Shinnie and Georgio Efrem who are both away on international duty.

Dundee have appointed one of Scotland’s richest and most successful business men as a new director at Dens Park. Calum Melville who, along with his brother Stuart, is reported to be worth in the region of £100 million and who has worked extensively in the oil industry, has joined the board. The new man is married with three children and based in Aberdeen, and Dundee see him as bringing a wealth of business experience to the board. He’s been involved in a string of successful business ventures over the past 20 years, the most recent being the sale of gtc group, in which he and his brother held a 90% stake, to Cosalt PLC in 2007. Melville is the managing director of Cosalt Offshore and intends to continue in this role as well as pursuing several ongoing business interests in commercial property, residential property, hotels and the oil and gas service sector.

Partick Th 1 Dundee 1, Firhill, First Division, 22/March/09

In what was a game l missed and only seen the second half in my local pub, down seeing my Dad who has just had a hip replacement.Both sides struggled to cope with a stiff swirling wind but Partick were first to threaten when Paul Paton unleashed a long range shot which forced a diving save from Rab Douglas.At the other end an angled Mickael Antoine-Curier shot flashed wide before Thistle produced a fine move.Stephen McKeown and Lucas Akins were involved in creating space for the lively Kris Doolan whose netbound shot had Douglas diving to his left to claw the effort behind.The home side continued to dominate but Dundee delivered a sucker punch by going ahead in 37 minutes with their first shot on target. Andrew Shinnie was the provider with a neat pass to the unmarked McMenamin who calmly rolled the ball through the legs of Jonny Tuffey.The setback appeared to throw Thistle completely off their stride while the visitors grew in confidence on the restart.They could have doubled their lead when McMenamin exposed a moment's hesitation to pick out Antoine-Curier but the Gaudeloupe striker was off-balance as he shot wide.Then Andrew Shinnie's corner picked out Gary MacKenzie whose header flashed inches wide.Giorgis Efrem was next to threaten with a dipping 20 yard effort that Tuffey could only parry.Thistle refused to throw in the towel and were rewarded when Simon Storey's cross was headed home by substitute McKinlay.There was still time for Tuffey to deny Shinnie with a superb save while Doolan fired narrowly over for Partick as the game drew to a close.
Dundee: Douglas; Cowan, Malone, McHale, MacKenzie, Lauchlan (McKeown 80), Shinnie, Paton, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier, Efrem. Subs not used: Williams, O'Brien, Gilhaney, Roy Referee: D Somers
Att: 3,303.

Link below is highlights from the game..

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/scotland/7958324.stm

Dundee 2 Ross County 0, Dens Park, First Division, 14/March/09

If Dundee feared they were about to dropping out of the Division One title race after their midweek defeat to Queen of the South, their season received renewed hope yesterday with a crucial home victory. Jocky Scott's side swatted aside Ross County with goals from Colin McMenamin and Mickael Antoine-Curier to make up some ground on leaders St Johnstone, who again faltered. Dundee now lie seven points behind with a game in hand, so, along with just like fellow promotion candidates Partick Thistle and Livingston, will feel the door has opened again further this weekend. Although Craig Brewster caused Rab Douglas some unnecessary problems with a header early on in the game, it took until 25 minutes for the first real opportunity to be created. With the wind causing havoc to the players' attempts at crossing, it was a miracle that Andrew Shinnie was able to pick out Mickael Antoine-Curier with a free-kick but his delivery deserved better from the Frenchman, who blazed a free header over from six yards. Dundee were far more potent in an attacking sense, although Mickael Antoine-Curier blazed a free header over the and could have had a penalty on the half hour when Eddie Malone was brought down inside the area, but Mike McCurry, the referee, waved away their protests. Any ire they had about that decision was extinguished two minutes later when they took the lead, McMenamin showing great bravery to attack Eric Paton's cross from the right with a diving header into the net., gave Antoine-Curier a lesson in how it should be done and got his reward for quick thinking when the ball flew past Joe Malin. After being refused what looked a watertight penalty earlier in the game, Dundee were handed a soft-looking one right on half-time. Antoine-Curier jostled for the ball with Andy Dowie on the right-hand side of the box and seemed to just throw himself down looking for the award. McCurry was swayed this time and the striker dispatched the kick dead ball past County goalkeeper Joe Malin. County had an opportunity to pull one back on 72 minutes when Richard Hart was afforded a free header inside the area, but Douglas saved well with both hands.

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale, MacKenzie, Cowan, Shinnie, Williams, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier, Efrem. Subs Not Used: Roy, Benedictus, Posniak, Gilhaney, Deasley.
Att: 3,381
Ref: M McCurry

A great win for Dundee, they likely played better on Tuesday, but given the windy conditions I'm glad of the 3 points. The big bonus is St.Johnstone got beat so it opens it up again. We still need to take it one game at a time and keep winning.

Latest news From Dens Park...

Andrew Shinnie has been called up for the Scotland U21's, he has played very well for us lately. He will missed the away games at Ross County and Dunfermline. Giorgos Efrem has also been called up for the friendly v Georgi and will miss the Ross County game as well. Dundee had hoped that he would be excused seeing it was only a friendly. However the Cyprus FA are standing firm.

Dundee 2 Queen of the South 3, Dens Park. First Division, 10/March/09

Dundee had made an ultra positive start against Queens, with Freddie Daquin at the heart of their attempts to establish an early lead. The Frenchman went close with a volley from the edge of the area then turned provider for Giorgos Efrem with a smart cutback. Efrem left Lee Robinson rooted to the spot as he turned the ball goalwards at pace, but it cannoned back off the inside of the upright and, when the Cypriot winger sought to net the rebound, his powerful drive hit Antoine-Curier and flew to safety. Unfortunately, neither Daquin nor the Dark Blues could sustain that level of performance and as both faded QoS started to find their way. The visitors looked unfortunate to be denied a penalty when David Cowan seemed to block a Stephen Dobbie shot with his hands. But they struck with three minutes of the first-half remaining when Barry Wilson was able to meet, unchallenged, a high hanging Paul Burns cross to direct a volley across Rab Douglas and in at the far post. Dundee levelled on 54 minutes thanks to a superb strike from Antoine-Curier who had three defenders in close attendance as he received the ball on the 18 yard line. However, he patiently worked enough of an opening to let loose a powerful shot that Robinson got a hand to but couldn’t keep out. Nine minutes later, though, the home side conceded another soft goal—Dobbie being allowed to burst in from their left flank and somehow drill the ball into the far corner from an unlikely angle. Another quality finish from Antoine-Curier on 68 minutes, surging into the box, drawing Robinson and slotting the ball away, hauled the home side back into things. With 15 minutes left, Dundee got caught out again by more weak defending. Douglas pulled off a terrific save, turning a netbound long-range Dobbie volley over the bar, although from the resulting Ryan McCann corner Martyn Lancaster rose almost unchallenged to power in a header that Douglas touched onto the post but couldn’t keep out.
Attendance—3757
Dundee—Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale, Mackenzie (Benedictus 67), Cowan, Shinnie, Daquin (Gilhaney 85), McMenamin, Antoine-Curier, Efrem. Subs not used—Williams, Deasley, Roy.
Referee—John Mckendrick.

A very poor result for our promotion push, we missed Colin Cameron a lot. But overall we played well. But we lost silly soft goals, we must now win every game now to have any chance.

St.Johnstone 0 Dundee 0, McDiarmid Park, First Division, 28/February/09.

Dundee failed to break down St.Johnstone on Saturday, the fans were asked to come early and I was in the ground at 14:15. Which was a bit of a shock for me,but seeing I was working that night it was understandable. In what was a good start by Dundee forcing a few corners but nothing came of them. The ball was up in the air too much as both teams cancelled each other out. McMenamin could have scored from a Antoine-Curier cross, but the ball was too behind him and saints cleared. Only other note was a Andrew Shinnie shot which just went over Main's cross bar. Saints had chances as well, but thought Milne took a dive in the box. My view is the ref was right. The second half was more of the same with few chances, and nobody able to get on the end of crosses and corners. The only save Main had was a shot by Shinnie which was deflected towards the goal, which he pushed away for a corner. So it ended 0-0 which was about fair overall.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale, MacKenzie, Cowan, Shinnie, Cameron, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier, Efrem. Subs Not Used: Roy, Lauchlan, Posniak, Daquin, Gilhaney.
Att: 7,238
Ref: S Conroy
In what was a poor game the only bonus was that we did not get beat, with Partick Th winning at least it puts pressue on St.Johnstone. Special word for the Dundee fans who turned up in great numbers....pity we could not get that winning goal.

Dundee 4 Livingston 1, Dens Park, First Division, 21/February/09

Dundee produced a sensational second-half display to secure victory over Livingston. Livingston dominated much of the first period but failed to make their pressure tell the half ended goalless. And how did they miss the two chances that fell to One.The hosts were a different side in the second half and took the lead in the 48th minute through Andrew Shinnie and what a goal is was a 30 yarder high into the net, then after a great ball from McHale putting Georgios Efrem through to score with ease extended their lead. Mickael Antoine-Curier's volley made it 3-0 after another great pass from McHale, and the Frenchman also grabbed the fourth before Livingston managed a late consolation from Raffaele De Vita.

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Cowan, McHale, McKeown, Benedictus, Shinnie, Cameron, McMenamin, Efrem, Antoine-Curier. Subs Not Used: Williams, Posniak, Gilhaney, Deasley, Roy.
Att: 3,679
Ref: S Finnie (Scotland).

Some great goals and so happy that we done it at home. Lets just keep it going , it's what we do now that counts. A big game next week at Perth, and a big Dundee support will attend.

Lastest From Dens.............

The game at Ross County was called off on Friday, the pitch failed a morning inspection. Due to snow and ice, Dens is also under snow. Manager jocky Scotts will take no more interest in the trialist left back who played against the Scotland Under 21's, he will keep a eye on the striker who needs to get back to match fitness after injury.

Livingston 1 Dundee 2, Almondvale, First Division, 07/February/09

Dundee revived their lingering promotion prospects with a hard-fought victory over Livingston. And in 77 seconds they took the lead when Mickael Antoine-Curier, fired past Roddy McKenzie. The French striker missed a great chance when he shot just wide. Giorgis Efrem made it two after 33 minutes, the on-loan Rangers midfielder firing in from an Eric Paton cross. Tony McParland pulled one back with a superbly struck second-half free-kick, but Leigh Griffiths was sent off with 13 minutes remaining. Dundee also had chances second half and could haved added to the score line.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale (Posniak 86), McKeown, Lauchlan, Shinnie, Colin Cameron, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier, Georgios Efrem. Subs Not Used: Roy, MacKenzie, Daquin, Gilhaney.
Att: 1,535
Ref: C Boyle.

A massive result for Dundee, and a great performance from the whole team. What a difference Colin Cameron and Giorgis Efrem made, we could have scored 5 or 6 in the first half alone. A pity St.Johnstone got a draw, but it's what we do that matters. Our next 3 games will make or break our season.

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

BBC Alba will screen live television coverage of three Scottish First Division matches this season. The matches will have Sunday afternoon kick-offs, and an announcement regarding the end-of-season play-off matches is expected later. Dundee will be on Sunday 22nd of March v Partick Thistle with a 15:15 kick-off.

Eddie Mearns has left the Club after his contract was terminated on transfer deadline day - this will allow Eddie to sign for a new club at any time.

Dundee manager Jocky Scott has handed extended deals to defender Craig McKeown and midfielder Paul McHale. The pair have been signed for a further two and a half years at Dens Park. McHale began his career at Rangers and had spells at Cowdenbeath and Clyde.

Dundee have signed Cypriot youth international Georgios Efrem on loan from Rangers until the summer. The 19-year-old winger will begin training with his new team-mates on Monday after watching Saturday's 2-1 win over Clyde in Division One.

Dundee 2 Clyde 1, Dens Park, First Division, 31-January-09.

Dundee moved to within seven points of leaders St.Johnstone with this win over Clyde. The visitors had the better of the first half and took the lead through Willie McLaren, but Dundee, who have found goals virtually impossible to come by this season, stunned the Bully Wee with strikes from Colin McMenamin and Mickael Antoine-Curier. Rab Douglas, Dundee's goalkeeper, signed a new two-year deal with the club on Friday and showed his worth within two minutes by clawing away a McLaren shot which looked destined for the bottom left-hand corner. McLaren was not to be denied, though, as he scored the opener on 12 minutes. Dundee's Eric Paton, tried to knock the ball across his own 18-yard line, giving McLaren the opportunity to chip a shot over Douglas from the edge of the area. Dundee had offered virtually nothing in an attacking sense but equalised with their first moment of real quality. Mark Gilhaney, recalled to the team for the first time since October, sent in a delightful ball for McMenamin, who flicked a header beyond David Hutton. Amazingly, Dundee turned the game on its head three minutes later as Antoine-Curier burst through on goal before lashing the ball into the bottom corner. In what was a poor second half with both keepers having not much to do save wise. We just need to create more chances and our wingers must get more crosses into the box, also a fit Colin Cameron will be a massive boost. A very good 3 points and may prove a turning point in our season.

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale (MacKenzie 85), McKeown, Lauchlan, Shinnie, Posniak, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier, Gilhaney (O'Brien 78). Subs Not Used: Daquin, Deasley, Roy.
Att: 3,217

Ref: C. Charleston

Lastest News From Dens Park...

Dundee boss Jocky Scott continued his planning for the future today when he fixed up the man he believes might be the best goalkeeper in the country right now on a new long-term contract. Rab Douglas has pledged his future to the Dark Blues until at least the summer of 2011. The 36-year-old former Scotland man’s performances since resurrecting his career by returning to Dens Park last summer on a one-year deal have attracted attention from elsewhere. Today, though, the big man stuck to his intention of seeing out his career as a Dark Blue when he penned his new deal.

Dundee have signed up Montrose goalkeeper Tony Bullock on a pre-contract agreement. Bullock, 36 left Ross County recently and is currently playing at Montrose until the end of the season, but will train full-time with the Dark Blues ahead of his summer move.

Eric Paton has signed a new 3 year deal at Dens Park , I see it as a massive boost as he has been one of the better players this season. Hopefully Rab Douglas and Gary McKeown follow suit. Manager Jocky Scott has done well retaining his services as rumours had it St.Johnstone were interested. Andrew Shinnie has signed now unti the end of the season. Eddie Mearns and Bob Davidson remain at the club, Clyde were linked with Davidson ans Mearns played a trial with Ayr United.

Airdrie United 1 Dundee 0, Excelsior Stadium, Irn Bru First Division, 24/January/09..

Dundee made changes Williams coming in for Antoine-Curier, and Benedictus replacing the injured Lauchlan. Dundee made the first attack with Daquin getting to the line , but his cross is cleared. The game was halted after three minutes when referee Brian Winter noticed that Dundee had two No.5 jerseys on the park and Kyle Benedictus had to leave the pitch to put on his allocated No.6 top.The match threatened to get off to an open start when McLachlan crossed for Di Giacomo and his drive forced a fine save from Rab Douglas. The ball was cleared to the other end and Colin McMenamin got in behind the Diamonds' defence, but he screwed his shot wide.Both teams saw this as a sign to close their opponents down and although Kevin McDonald had a drive deflected wide neither keeper was called into much action in the rest of the half.Airdrie came close to breaking the deadlock when Simon Lynch went on a solo run in 56 minutes and rattled Douglas' bar.Airdrie finally went ahead when Hazley sent in a free kick from the left low into the box where Lynch flicked the ball into the air and Di Giacomo ran in to volley it through Douglas' legs from seven yards out.Dundee tried to hit back and Eddie Malone crossed from the left for McMenamin but he headed straight into Robertson's arms. Airdrie came within inches of another goal when McKenna headed goalward where Eric Paton cleared off the line. Dundee did have a late chance but McHale's shot was blocked, it broke to McMenamin his shot also blocked with Airdrie being able to clear..and that was it as the full time whistle went..
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale, McKeown, Benedictus, Daquin (Young 78), Shinnie (Antoine-Curier 58), McMenamin, Williams (Cowan 46), O'Brien. Subs Not Used: MacKenzie, Roy.
Att: 1,303
Ref: B Winter
I missed the game so can't comment too much on the performance, but I don't like the idea of one striker, we won't score enough goals playing tactics like this, the bottom line is the midfield is not good enough, the wingers don't deliver enough quality crosses in..and leaving Curier our top goal scorer on the bench is crazy..

Dundee 0 Morton 0, Dens Park, Irn Bru First Division, 17/January/09

Dundee were indebted to an inspired display from keeper Robert Douglas as they secured a draw against Morton. The ex-Scotland international was in tremendous form and pulled off three fantastic saves to keep Morton at bay. Masterton's first effort, a 20-yard dead ball, whizzed just wide on 15 minutes but as the clock ticked down he got even closer.Team-mate McGuffie then forced a save out of Douglas from 20 yards and the Dark Blues No 1 continued his heroics from the resultant corner to save a header from the visiting midfielder.The game was in Morton's hands at this stage but the home side could well have taken an undeserved lead on the half hour had Colin McMenamin reacted quicker to Mickael Antoine-Curier's rebounded 15-yard strike.Then, Masterton had two more free-kick efforts to trouble Dundee – one cracking off the base of the post and the other turned wide by Douglas.The second half followed much the same vein as the first with Douglas again underlining his worth with a fingertip save from Brian Wake on 59 minutes. Dundee's best chance of the game came in the 69th-minute when Mickael Antoine-Curier's shot was parried into the path of Colin McMenamin. However, the striker, blasted over an open goal from just six yards out.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton (Posniak 59), Malone, McHale, McKeown, Lauchlan (Cowan 26), Daquin( Young) Shinnie, McMenamin, Antoine-Curier, O'Brien. Subs Not Used: Deasley, Roy.
My MoM goes to Rab Douglas four outstanding saves, he has been brilliant all season. But it's 2 more points dropped and with St.Johnstone drawing at Partick Th, it was a big chance to cut the lead.

Team News....................

For the game against Morton at Dens, Dundee will be without central defender Gary MacKenzie and Mark Gilhaney, who have both been ill.David Cowan recovered from the head knock he picked up against Celtic last week. Colin Cameron has joined Arbroath on loan for a month, a good move it will get his fitness up to speed quicker.
Goals From Celtic v Dundee

Celtic 2 Dundee 1, Parkhead, Scottish Cup, 10/January/09

I missed the first 12 minutes due to the turnstyles not working, just in time to see Artur Boruc's fresh-air swipe in the 14th minute allowed Colin McMenamin to put the First Division side in front. It had been another blunder from the goalkeeper that handed the visitors a surprise lead early in the game. The Poland international looked well placed to deal with David O'Brien's long pass forward, but he completely mis-timed his attempted clearance, allowing McMenamin to knock the ball into an empty net. Boy did we enjoy the next 20 minutes leading the game.
Celtic continued to stutter when striker McDonald drove wide of the target and Brown headed a Shunsuke Nakamura free kick into the side-netting. McDonald had another shot that bounced off Jim Lauchlan's head before McGeady fired into the arms of former Parkhead keeper Rab Douglas from the rebound. The home side's increasing pressure paid off when the energetic Brown drove down the left and into the Dundee box before pulling the ball back to McDonald.
The Australian mis-hit his shot from 14 yards, but the ball ricocheted off several Dundee defenders to land in front of Brown, who stroked it home from close range. With the interval looming, McGeady eased the home fans' nerves when he cut in from the left and curled a wonderful shot from the edge of the box high past Douglas. A poor goal to give away..giving McGeady too much room and letting him cut inside.Celtic were more relaxed after the break and McGeady had another effort from 20 yards tipped over the bar by Douglas. Dundee were seldom seen as an attacking force, but McMenamin flashed a drive from 20 yards past the post on the hour mark to indicate a threat. Douglas was required to pull off a fine save from Vennegoor of Hesselink's drive after the Dutchman had been put through by Nakamura's incisive pass. McDonald then messed up another chance when he chipped over the crossbar from the edge of the box after neatly turning Lauchlan. Then in the last minute Boruc dropped the ball in his 6 yard box, but Antoine-Curier was on the wrong side. Time run out and we were out of the Scottish Cup.

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Lauchlan, McKeown, Malone, Shinnie (Antoine-Curier 78), Cowan (Benedictus 90), Posniak (McHale 68), O'Brien, Daquin, McMenamin. Subs Not Used: Roy, Williams.
Att: 23,070
Ref: C Murray

It was a good day out in Glasgow, game wise the Dundee players gave their all , and could not ask for more. The fans were great and backed the team non stop.I would have given Antoine-Curier more time..at least the last 25minutes. Also pity about the size of the home support.

Dundee 1 Dunfermline Ath 0, Dens Park, Irn Bru First Division, 03/January/09.

DUNDEE gave their promotions cances a boost with a hard fought victory at Dens against Dunfermline. The Pars knew that, with their promotion rivals' match frozen off, they could cut the gap at the head of the table to only two points, but despite dominating possession could not see the game out. They did not deserve to lose, but didn't look like title winners – and left Dundee with nothing after Eric Paton's stunning free kick won the match. Despite enjoying the better of the play the visitors found Rab Douglas, the home keeper, in miserly form. Douglas saved well from Stephen Glass after 12 minutes, diving low to his left to block the long-range shot. He bettered that effort 60 seconds later, though, with a fine diving save after Andy Kirk met a Greg Ross delivery yards from goal. Dundee gradually emerged as an attacking force, with dead balls whipped in by Andrew Shinnie their most potent source. He played in an excellent free kick on 24 minutes but the Dark Blues had nobody willing to attack the ball. Given the lack of cutting edge for Dundee, it seemed likely that a dead ball would be their best chance of scoring and so it proved on 67 minutes. With Shinnie fouled on the edge of the box by Steven Bell, Dundee had a free-kick 20 yards out which Paton flicked over the wall and beyond Paul Gallacher into the top corner. The hosts should have doubled their lead minutes later when Freddy Daquin raced through on goal but he pulled his shot embarrassingly wide. And Dundee could have extended their lead when Colin McMenamin crashed the ball off Gallacher's left-hand post after a low cross from Freddie Daquin. Dunfermline did force a few corners near the end, but we survived it. God know how the ref added 6 minutes injury time!!

Dundee: Douglas, Cowan, Lauchlan, McKeown, Malone, Daquin, Posniak (Antoine-Curier 54), Shinnie, Paton, O'Brien, McMenamin. Subs Not Used: Roy, Benedictus, McHale, Williams.
Att: 5,033
Ref: A Law

MoM goes to Eddie Malone, his best game for a while, also Antoine-Curier did well well when he came on, I hope he plays on Saturday against Celtic, alongside McMenamin. Be positive Dundee