A Few years ago....

In Germany

Latest News From Dens Park

Dundee beat Forfar Ath 4-1 tonight at Station Park. Manager Gordon Chisholm played the trialists who have been at the club in the last week. They included Johnny Flynn. Gordon Gilbert, Rhys Weston and Ryan McCann who is training with Dundee just now. Anyway a good work out for the players with goals from Foryth(2), McMenamin and Griffths.

Dundee will play Stenhousemuir away in the next round of the Alba Cup, the draw was made on Tuesday afternoon.

Dundee 2 Alloa Ath 1, Dens Park, Alba Cup 1st Round, 24/July/10

Dundee came from behind to snatch victory with two late goals, against a well organised Alloa Athletic side. Dundee took a while to get going, but Nicky Riley was putting in a lot of work. That was the tone for the first half, as we struggled to make any impact up front.

Into the second half and again we struggled to find any flow to our moves, with over hit or too many passes. We did have have a great chance when good play by Leigh Griffiths out wide, his cross in and somehow Antoine-Curier did not throw himself into the six yard box to get the touch. It would have been a certain goal. Alloa kept hitting on the break and took the lead when ex Ayr player Scott Walker headed home, and not long after after they were very unlucky when Scott hit the bar.

Lucky for us that Higgins and McMenamin were on for the tiring Riley and out of form Curier by this time and with just 4 minutes left McMenamin headed home powerfully to level, and with time just about up Higgins scored after a scramble in the Alloa box. His powerful shot hitting keeper Robertson before spinning high into the net.
 

That was that and Dundee were through, it did look like we were going out, but the two subs did the trick.

 

Dundee: Fox, Irvine, Forsyth, McKeown, Benedictus, Kerr, Riley, O'Donnell, Harkins, Griffths, Antoine-Curier. Subs: Douglas, McHale, Paton, McMenamin

Dundee Sign Gary Irvine

Dundee have signed Gary Irvine on a one year deal, after missing out out on Jason Talbot this is a big boost for the club. Gary has played for St.Johnstone and has a lot of experience, he is also versatile and can play in a number of positions.

 

He should make his debut tomorrow v Alloa Ath at home in defence of the Alba Cup. Welcome to Dens Gary.

Isle of Man 1987 Photos

Arbroath 1 Dundee 1, Gayfield, Friendly, 17/July/10

Dundee drew 1-1 with Arbroath at Gayfield this afternoon. The Red Litchies took in the lead in the first half when Jordyn Sheerin shot home from the edge of the box.

Second half and Rab Douglas replaces Scott Fox in goal. Dundee take the game to their hosts and go close on a few occasions, but Douglas is forced to make a couple of saves. Dundee bring on a few subs and McMenamin just about scores but the ball hits Griffiths and Arbroath clear.

After good play by the trialist leftback his pass puts Higgins clear and his shot is saved but Colin McMenamin is there to force the ball home. Both team go forward to try and get the winner, but it ends 1-1.

Dundee:Fox, Trialist, Benedictus, McKeown, Paton, Forsyth, O'Donnell, Riley, Harkins, Curier, Griffiths. Subs:McMenamin, McHale, Kerr, Higgins, Rennie, Bartlett, Gibson, Douglas.

Dundee sign O'Donnell and Riley

Dundee have signed midfielders Stephen O'Donnell and Nicky Riley. Stephen has signed a 1 year deal, with Nicky signing on for 6 months. Both should make their debut at Arbroath tomorrow. The game kicks off at 2pm.
 

Pat Clarke has left the club to sign for Dunfermline Ath, he made 4 starts and 16 subs appearances. Scoring 2 goals.

Dundee Start Pre-Season Training





The Dundee players returned for pre-season training at Caird Park yesterday,they were joined by some new faces who are on trial at the club. Ex St Mirren winger Stephen O'Donnell, ex-Alloa defender Scott Buist and Nicky Riley who started at Celtic, and had a spell at Hamilton last season.


From Left; Nicky Riley, Scott Buist and Stephen O'Donnell

 

Manager Gordon Chisholm says more will join in the coming weeks, and rumour has it that we are close to signing 3 new players.

Photos:(C) Soccernet-assets.espn.com,

(C) alloaathletic.co.uk,

(C) bbc.co.uk/sport

Cup Ties Both At Home........

Dundee will play Alloa Ath at Dens on 24th of July in defence of our MG Alba Cup. A week later we entertain Montrose in the 1st Round of The Cis Cup.

Dundee Sign Defender

Dundee have signed Morton defender Dominic Shimmin on a two year deal. He has played for Arsenal youths, QPR a loan spell at Bournemouth, and a short spell at Crawley Town, before heading up to Morton.

I seen Dominic a few times last season, and he impressed me, so happy with this signing. It will boost our defence, so hopefully we sign a decent left back next. More info Here

Dundee Sign Keeper

Dundee have signed goal keeper Scott Fox on a pre-contract, and will join the club on July 1st, he will be 23 by then and no transfer will be needed. he will aim to push Rab Douglas for the No1 jersey. More signing will happen in the next few weeks.

Latest News From Dens

Gordon Chisholm started rebuilding his squad for next season by telling 15 players in total that they have no future at Dens Park. Tony Bullock, Derek Soutar, Eddie Malone, Gary MacKenzie, David Cowan, Colin Cameron, Darren Young, Bob Malcolm and Player of the Year Jim Lauchlan won't be getting their contracts renewed. Loan players Andrew Shinnie, Ben Hutchison and Ryan O'Leary will go back to their clubs. Maros Klimpl, Richie Hart, Bryan Deasley and Chris Casement have been told to find other clubs.

Jim Lauchlan was voted Dundee FC's Player Of the Year on Sunday night at the POY Dinner. Jim has done well this season, and I would have given him a one year deal.

Also Chairman Bob Brannan has decided to step down, his replacement will be announced in due course. Bob has done a great job is keeping Dundee FC alive, along with a lot of dedicated people who are DFC fans.

Inverness Caley Thistle 1 Dundee 0, Tulloch Caledonian Stadium, FirstDivision, 01/May/10

Dundee headed up north to play Champions Inverness Caley Thistle on Saturday, and they applauded them on to the pitch.

Dundee started brightly with a few chance created, but shots were too easy for Essen. After that Hart hit the post with a free kick, and the Caley Th keeper saved well from Higgins from 6 yards. After that Caley took over and should have scored twice before they did eventually. Rooney was again the scorer with his 27th of the season.

Second half and Caley Th have this game well in control, and although Dundee made a late effort Caley Thistle held out to claim all 3 points. So well done to them , and the brave 70-100 Dundee fans that made the game. I hope the players that remain at Dens next season hate this feeling.

Dundee: Soutar, Hart, Forsyth, Benedictus, McKeown, O'Leary, Shinnie, Kerr, McMenamin, Higgins, Harkins. Subs: Clarke, Hutchinson, Young, McHale, Geddes.

Att: 6,031

Ref: S Conroy

Dundee 2 Raith Rovers 0, Dens Park, First Division, 24/April/10

Dundee won their last home game of the season beating Raith Rovers 2-0, in a good performance they seemed so much more positive than Wednesday night. Raith did threaten on the break and Soapy Soutar made a good stop from a header. Dundee did have a few chance in the first half, but could not find the killer touch. With Shinnie making positive forward runs.

Second half and Dundee took the game to Raith, and it was not long before they took the lead. Shinnie was fouled just outside the box, and Sean Higgins curled a great free kick into the top corner of the net. After that Dundee had a few more chances, but made it 2-0 seven minutes later, when a Raith player handled in the six yard box, Up stepped Gary Harkins to score with ease from the penalty spot.

So that was all the scoring for the day to send the Dundee fans home happy with the three points. We just need one point to seal second place in the league.

Dundee: Soutar, Lauchlan, McKeown, O'Leary, Paton, Shinnie, Kerr, Harkins, Forsyth, McMenamin, Higgins. Subs Not Used: Geddes, Hutchinson, Clarke, Hart, Klimp.

Att: 3,187

Ref: S. Nicholls.

Raith Rovers Preveiw

Dundee play Raith Rovers again this Saturday, but at Dens park this time. Goalkeeper Derek Soutar will play, but we will be without the injured Leigh Griffiths, Tony Bullock, Dave Cowan who has had another operation, and Colin Cameron who broke his arm in training on Tuesday. Eddie Malone is suspended.

It will be my last game of the season, the money l would have spend going to Inverness will be put towards my season ticket funds. So l hope that we play well in our final home game.

Raith Rovers 1 Dundee 0, Starks Park, First Division, 21/April/10

Last night in a dreadful performance Dundee lost 1-0 nil, Tony Bullock made it but had to come off after 26 minutes, replacement Bobby Geddes saved Dundee from losing this one by more than one goal. Young Bob made three outstanding saves, and was my MOM, that says it all on another poor performance.

First half we had a lot of the ball, but never troubled the home keeper. Second half was much the same vein. But Rovers looked more the likely side , and Hill scored what was the winner with a strong header which gave Geddes no chance. Dundee's only chance of note was a Harkins shot which was just inches wide.

So that's it for another season, Well done to Inverness Caley Thistle for their run of unbeaten games. They deserve the League on which I feel we have thrown away, I can see major changes at Dens for next season, and we need leaders badly, and players who will work their socks off to wear the Dark Blue of Dundee.

Dundee: Bullock (Geddes 26), Paton, McKeown, Lauchlan, Forsyth, Hart, O'Leary, Klimp (Hutchinson 61), Harkins, Clarke, Higgins (McMenamin 61), Subs Not Used: Shinnie, Kerr.

Att:1544

Ref: A.Law

Match Highlighs: http://www.raithroversfc.com/cgi-bin/matchdetails.cgi?id=902&type=11

Latest News From Dens Park

Striker Leigh Griffiths won't play again this season, his ankle injury has ruled him out for the rest of the season. For the trip to Raith Rovers goal keeping coach Bobby Geddes might have to play, Tony Bullock is rated doubtful, Derek Soutar has got a bug, young keeper Gibson is on loan at Elgin. With Rab Douglas having went through a operation two weeks ago, a right crisis has arisen

Morton 2 Dundee 2, Cappielow, First Division, 17/April/10

Dundee's promotion push for this season is all but over, after drawing 2-2 at Cappielow this afternoon. In a very poor performance first half was our down fall, Morton were far the better side and took the lead just before half time, when the ball came back of the bar and Witteveen scored from the rebound.Manager Chisholm made changes at half time.

Second half and worse was to follow, we gave away the ball away cheaply in midfield and fouled the Morton striker Witteveen in the box, Monti stepped up to make it 2-0. Just a few minutes later and Gary Harkins scored from a tight angle to give us some hope. Dundee put Morton under some real pressure, and after a good move Higgins was unlucky not to score. With around 8 mins to go and Leigh Griffiths had to leave the field to get treatment for a ankle injury, Dundee got a free kick just outside the box, and Griffiths came back on to curl a beauty to make it 2-2.

Sadly we could not find the net again, and it ended 2-2, it's terrible we can only play for 25-30 minutes. That has cost us all season, and changes will need to happen for the good of the club.

Dundee: Bullock, McKeown, Lauchlan, O'Leary, Paton, Kerr (Cameron 61), Harkins, Shinnie (Higgins 46), Malone, McMenamin (Clarke 46), Griffiths. Unused Subs: Soutar, Hart.

Att: 1,998

Ref:A.Muir.

Latest News.

Dundee head west tomorrow looking for 3 more points, and put some pressure on Inverness Caley Thistle. Eric Paton is fit again while Dave Cowan is in the squad but will unlikely start. We must be positive from the start as Cappielow is always a hard place to go.

At Last..................Finished

Finally finished reading this book, l have read wee bits in the past. But that's it done start to finish. Well worth the money, and it was exciting times at Dens Park. My best memory was seeing and meeting Claudio Caniggia in the High Corner Bar, after Dundee beat United at Tannadice. What a night that was!

Partick Th 0 Dundee 1, Firhill, First Division, 10/April/10

Dundee won 1-0 at sunny Firhill, but were made to fight all the way. Partick seemed to have the better chances, but it's goals that count. At this stage no one will complain about getting all three points, the vital goal was scored with just 16 minutes left on the clock, good play from defence found Griffths wide his cross was headed home by sub Pat Clarke. A goal which the Dundee fans would have enjoyed, by reports Tony Bullock had a sound game, with all 3 central defenders also doing well. Manager Gordan Chisholm seemed happy enough with the effort the players put in.

Dundee: Bullock, McKeown, O'Leary, Hart, Shinnie (Cameron 63), Kerr, Harkins, Malone, Higgins (Griffiths 53), McMenamin (Clarke 74). Unused Subs: Soutar, Forsyth.

Att: 2,545

Ref: S.O'Reilly

A very vital 3 points, pity Inverness Caley Thisle won at Queen of the South, but all we can do is keep winning and hope they drops points. We head for Cappielow on Saturday and I will make that game.

Dundee 3 Ayr United 0, Dens Park, First Division, 03/April/10

Dundee produced their best home performance so far this season. In a game we had to win they came flying out the blocks, Shinnie making Ayr keeper Samson tip one over after a surging run into the box. It set the tone as wave after wave of attack. Dundee opened the scored when good play out of defence, then the ball was fed to Kerr who then made a great pass to Colin McMenamin who used his pace to get into the box where he finished with ease. Not long after after another surging run from Shinnie, who was fouled, up stepped Sean Higgins who curled the free kick into the top corner to put Dundee two up. Not long after and Harkins was so unlucky when a great piece of skill from the midfielder and his shot smashed off the bar.

Into the second half and the same vein continued with Dundee in total control, and only saves from Samson kept the score down. But they got their third after a long throw was knocked on to McMenamin to head home for the final goal of the day.

Dundee: Bullock, Lauchlan, McKeown, O'Leary, Hart, Shinnie, Kerr, Harkins (Cameron 48), Malone, Higgins, (Hutchinson 80), McMenamin. Unused Subs: Soutar, Malcolm, Forsyth

Att: 4,270

A fine performance from the whole team, which gave manager Gordon Chisholm his first win. The system of 3-5-3 worked well, with O'Leary able to cover left back , it allowed Malone to push forward all day. So next up is Partick Thistle away, tough as usual but such is the nature of this league.

Latest News From Dens Park

Dundee keeper Rab Douglas will miss the rest of the season due to a knee injury, he will need a operation. Also injured is Gary MacKenzie who might miss tomorrow's home v Ayr United.

Also out is Eric Paton and striker Leigh Griffths, also news that Ayr fans have cancelled two supporters buses in protest of the behaviour of stewards in their last visit to Dens Park.

Dunfermline Ath 2 Dundee 1, East End Park, First Division, 30/March/10

Dundee dropped three more points at East End Park last night. The gap is now 4 points which is big given the games we have left. The first half was very poor from our point of view, as The Pars totally dominated. They took just six minutes to score when Gibson score from close in, then in 34 minutes they scored again when Bell scored a cracking goal from 30 yards. Dundee failed to create anything of note in the first half.

Second half and Gordon Chisholm made three changes with Higgins, Shinnie and McKeown coming on for Hutchinson, Paton and MacKenzie. With hart moving back to right back. We did open brightly but we could not make it count until the 90th minute when Malone headed home on the 90th minute.

We wish Pars keeper Greg Paterson a speed recovery after he broke his leg in a clash with striker Ben Hutchinson, it looked a bad one, but totally accidental.

Dundee: Bullock, Paton (Shinnie 45), MacKenzie (McKeown 45), Klimpl, Malone, O'Leary, Hart, Kerr, Harkins, Griffiths, Hutchinson (Higgins 45) Subs: Forsyth, Soutar,

Ref: W.Collum

Att:2,134

Latest News

Dundee head for Dunfermline tonight, in what will be a tough game. The game should go ahead with no pitch inspection planned.

Brian Kerr is the new captain taking over from Eric Paton, who had said his form had suffered after talking to manager Gordan Chisholm.

Ross County 1 Dundee 1, Victoria Park, First Division, 27/March/10

Dundee came away from Dingwall with a hard earned point, it was nearly 3 points with Ross County scoring with just 3 minutes remaining. In the first half it was end to end stuff, and Dundee nearly scored when Hutchinson's effort came back of the post , and County cleared. So 0-0 at half-time.

What a start to the second half when a great through ball found Griffiths who chested it down to Hutchinson, who took a touch and smashed the ball into the top corner to give Dundee the lead. Dundee did have more chances and Griffiths was unlucky twice when shots went just wide. Dundee made changes with Higgins on for Hutchinson, and McKeown comes on for Griffiths. Now Dundee have 5 at the back. Ross County come forward and finally score in 87 minutes when Craig scored with a shot just inside the box. So 1-1 it ended, maybe Dundee have paid for sitting too deep at the end. We need to get that second killer goal.

Dundee: Bullock, Paton, MacKenzie, O'Leary, Malone, Hart, Klimpl, Kerr, Harkins, Griffiths, Hutchison. Subs: Soutar, Mckeown, Forsyth, Shinnie, Higgins.

The points dropped mean Inverness Caley Thistle go top, after they won 1-0 at Partick Thistle, elsewhere Queen of the South beat Dunfermline 2-0. I see it as a three horse race now. Up next is Dunfermline Ath away on Tuesday, while Inverness CT host rivals Ross County.

Latest News From Dens Park..

Dundee have signed defender Ryan O'Leary on loan from Kilmarnock, a central defender who can play left back as well. It will give manager Gordon Chisholm more options. The deal will run to the end of the season.

Meanwhile the club have signed a 4 year deal with sports giants Puma, I see it as a great deal and should give us a better range to choose from.

Rab Douglas missed Tuesday game due to a injury, he has not been able to train for the last month or so, he has also put off a operation until the end of the season. He might be fit for the trip to Dingwall on Saturday.

Dundee 1 Queen of the South 1, Dens Park, First Division, 23/March/2010

Dundee could only draw 1-1 with Queen of the South on Tuesday night, a very positive start and in 15 mins Leigh Griffiths earned a penalty on which he scored with ease. Also the Queen's defender got sent off, Dundee pushed forward looking for the vital second goal, but with all their efforts, had to settle winning 1-0 at half-time. Into the second half and the Doonhammers scored from a free kick after Kerr had handled, Harris beating keeper Bullock with a fine effort. Dundee threw everything to get a winner, but poor finishing and no luck and Queens kept Dundee out, they looked dangerous on the break. Tony Bullock had a great save in the dying minutes. In injury time the ref gave Dundee a penalty, but changed his mind after protests from the Queen's players and talks with the lineman. It did look a bit soft, so no real complaints.
Dundee: Bullock, Paton, McKeown, Malcolm, Malone, Shinnie (Hutchison 78), Klimpl (Hart 68), Kerr, Harkins, Griffiths, McMenamin (Higgins 61)
Att: 4,508

Chisholm and Dodds New Management Team At Dens

Dundee have appointed Gordon Chisholm and Billy Dodds as their new management team. They have signed contracts until the end of season 2011-12. Both have played for and been captain of Dundee FC.

Jocky Scott Departs Dens Park.

Jocky Scott has been sacked as manager of Scottish First leaders Dundee. After a run of poor results since the turn of the year. More on the story from the link below.

http://www.dundeefc.co.uk/news_detail.asp?ID=3162

Airdrie United 3 Dundee 0, New Excelsior Stadium, First Division, 20/March/10

Dundee went down 3-0 to bottom club Airdrie United, a shocking result in our promotion push. First half we had a lot of the ball, plenty corners but as in recent months we lacked the killer touch in front of goal. Second half and Airdrie scored from a free kick which took a nasty bounce in front of keeper Rab Dougas, a further two goals followed to record Dundee's worst result of the season. Manager Jocky Scott said the second half was a embarrassment, and could understand the DFC fans reaction at full time.
Dundee: Douglas, Malcolm, MacKenzie (Cameron 2), McKeown,Malone,Shinnie,Kerr,Klimpl, Harkins, McMenamin, Hutchison (Higgins 67).
Att:1,178.

Ayr United 1 Dundee 1 Somerset Park, First Division, 17/March/10

Dundee managed a 1-1 draw at Somerset to much improved Ayr United on Wednesday. The Dark Blues created good chances in the first half, and took the lead when midfielder Gary Harkins scored from 25 yards which gave keeper Samson no chance. Minutes later Ayr drew level from a free kick, after they gave away a sloppy foul at the edge of the box. Second half Dundee pushed on to get a winner, but the finishing was lacking. Captain Eric Paton got sent off to make things tough in the last 15 mins. By reports it was a fair result.


Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, Klimp, McKeown, MacKenzie, Shinnie, Kerr, Griffiths, Higgins, Harkins. Subs: Bullock, Malcolm,Hart.McMenamin,Hutchison.

Dundee 1 Raith Rovers 2, Dens Park, Scottish Cup 1/4 Final, 12/March/2010

Dundee crashed out of the Scottish Cup at home to Raith Rovers, in a whirlwind start the fifers scored in 3 mins, when Simmons scored with a shot from the edge of the box. Then in 10 mins Ellis scored with a great header, which gave Rab Douglas no chance. Dundee did battle away and Leigh Griffiths was unlucky when he hit the woodwork. Rovers were dangerous on the break, but it took until 73mins for Dundee to pull one back, after good play from Gary Harkins he crossed for Craig Forsyth to head home. Dundee pushed forward , but the Rovers held out to reach the Semi Finals in the first time since 1963.

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, MacKenzie, Lauchlan (Shinnie 88), Malone, Kerr, Hart, (McMenamin 62), Forsyth, Harkins, Griffiths, Higgins (Clarke 83) Subs Not Used: Soutar, Malcolm.

Att: 7,309.

Dundee 2 Inverness Caley Th 2, Dens Park, First Division,

Dundee came back from 2-0 down to gain a vital point, Dundee struggle in the first half. But Leigh Griffiths could have put the Dee ahead, but forced a good save from the Caley Th keeper. But early into the second half and Caley Th took the lead with a well worked goal, soon after and it was 2-0 Caley Th. Dundee came back into it with 17mins to go when Brian Kerr scored a peach of a goal from 25 yards. Dundee pushed forward and a great run by Gary Harkins and his shot took a almighty defection, and the game was all square at 2-2.

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Malone, Forsyth, Kerr, Shinnie, (McMenamin 81), Harkins, Griffiths, Hutchinson, (Higgins 62). Subs Not Used: Bullok, McKeown, Klimpl.

Att: 4974

Ref: C.Brown.

Dundee Sign Bob Malcolm

Dundee have signed Bob Malcolm on loan until the end of the season. He has been playing with Brisbane Roar, he also played for Rangers, Derby County,Queens Park Rangers, Motherwell to name a few.

Gary Off To MK Dons....

Defender Gary MacKenzie will leave Dens Park at the end of the season. He has signed a pre contract with MK Dons, who has Alex Rae in their coaching staff. Alex had signed Gary for Dundee from Rangers while he was manager at Dens Park. I'm sure Gary will give his best for the club until then. He has been outstanding this season.

Bobby Cox and Alan Gordon..

Former Dundee captain Bobby Cox has died at the age of 76. Cox captained Dundee to the league title in 1962 and guided the team to European Cup victories against Cologne, Sporting Lisbon and Anderlecht. A lifelong supporter of the club, he retired in 1969 after 14 years at Dens Park, although he continued in a hospitality role at the stadium. A minute's applause was held as a mark of respect before Saturday's home win over Partick Thistle.
http://sport.scotsman.com/football/39Sir-Bobby39-Cox-Hero-who.6091829.jp

Sadly striker Alan Gordon has passed away as well, he played for Dundee between 1974-1976. he also played for Hearts, Hibs and Dundee United.
http://sport.scotsman.com/dundeefc/Alan-Gordon-the-thinking-man39s.6090056.jp

Dundee 1 Partick Th 0, Dens Park, First Division, 20/February/10

Dundee won this one thanks to a sixth minute goal from Eric Paton, his first of the season. The big news on Saturday was the passing of Bobby Cox. A true Dundee FC legend, in every sense of the word. A minute's applause was done in front the stand which bears Bobby's name, before kick-off. The game got off to a great start when a good move ended with Eric Paton shooting home beating the Partick keeper thanks to a wicked defection. Dundee had a lot of the ball, but created fews chances. Into the second half , the game followed the same pattern. Dundee were in no danger, with The Jags having 1 shot on target. So in the end 3 points, and a clean sheet. Raith Rovers next Saturday, away at Starks Park.

Dundee: Douglas, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Malone, Paton, Kerr, Klimpl, Harkins, Forsyth, Griffiths, Hutchinson (McMenamin 75). Subs Not Used: Bullock, Young, Shinnie, Clarke.
Att: 5,216
Ref: J McKendrick

Dundee to Face Rovers

Dundee will face Raith Rovers in the 1/4 Final of the Scottish Cup, after they beat Aberdeen 1-0. A place in the Semi Finals is at stake, so a very tough game ahead.

Happy Days....

The team that marked me not missing a game for a season, I have not done that since. They played a lot of good football. But like us Dundee fans know we had a few let downs as well. The team spirit seemed very good within the squad. Happy days indeed.
http://dundeeshrine.blogspot.com/2010/02/dundee-skwad-1980-81.html

Dundee at Home...

Dundee will play Aberdeen or Raith Rovers at home in the 1/4 finals of the Scottish Cup, the tie will be played on 13th/14th of March.

Dundee 2 Ayr United 1, Dens Park, Scottish Cup, 06/February/10

Dundee scraped into the next round of the Scottish cup, I don't think they played all that bad. But again gave away a cheap goal, when slack play let Ayr in and McManus scored with ease. Not long after and Ayr could have made it 2 nil, but Gary macKenzie done well to block on the line. Dundee did have chances as well and when Leigh Griffiths broke clear, he played Gary Harkins in with only the keeper to beat. But somehow he put it wide. But on 41 mins Dundee drew level when Sparky's shot was blocked and new striker Ben Hutchinson shot home to level the tie at half-time. In the second half and Dundee basically dominated the game, with Ayr having little to offer, but it took a mistake from keeper Samson to give Dundee the victory, when from a Harkins cross he choose to punch the ball against Griffiths and the ball ended up in the net. That was about that, we go down to Ayr on league business on Saturday, we must stop giving soft goals away.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Klimpl, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Forsyth, Malone, Kerr, Harkins, Griffiths (Shinnie 85)Hutchinson (McMenamin 80) Subs: Soutar, Hart, Young, (not used)

Dundee Sign Striker

Dundee have signed striker Ben Hutchison on loan from Celtic, the 22 year old will join his new team mates on Tuesday morning, Meanwhile defender Chris Casement has joined Linfield on loan to give him match action, as he has not played much this season.

Latest News From Dens......

Dundee have signed Andrew Shinnie on loan from Rangers, he was here last season. So a good signing for the second half of the season.

Dundee defender Gary MacKenzie has been linked with a move to MK Dons and Charlton, Dundee FC have offered Gary a new 3 year deal. Ex Manger Alex Rae is at MK Dons, time will tell if he goes or not.

Queen of the South 1 Dundee 1, Palmerston Park, First One, 23/Jan/10

Dundee got off to great start when Forsyth was fouled in the box, but Gary Harkins missed the spot kick. Soon after the Dens mens were to pay for that miss, when Queens scored from a free kick. Dundee battled away and had a few chances. But in 77 minutes on form striker Leigh Griffths scored a fine goal. It ended in a draw, so l suppose not too bad a result.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Benedictis (Clarke 65), Lauchlan, Malone, Forsyth, Kerr, Harkins, Hart, Griffiths, McMenamin. Subs Not Used: Soutar, Casement, Klimpl, Young.
Att: 3,415
Ref: Charles Richmond

Livingston 0 Dundee 1, Almondvale Stadium, Scottish Cup, 20/Jan/10

Dundee won this tie thanks to a wonder Gary Harkins goal, he blasted home from 25 yards in the 33rd minute. Dundee were given a good test from a young Livingston side, and can thank Derek Soutar's penalty save to keep Livi out. Dundee will play Ayr United at Dens in the next round.

Dundee 3 Dunfermline Ath 2, Dens Park, First Division, 17/Jan/10

Dundee's Leigh Griffiths fired a double as Dundee extended their lead at the top of Division One to 11 points. Griffiths scored the opener after converting Edward Malone's cross, but the Pars equalised courtesy of David Graham's 18-yard drive. The hosts went 2-1 up through Colin McMenamin's predatory finish before Andy Kirk equalised again for the Pars. Then with only eights minutes to go on form striker Griffiths blasted the winner home to send the home fans wild.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Benedictis, Lauchlan, Malone, Hart (Kerr 67), Klimpl, Forsyth, Griffiths (Clarke 86), McMenamin, Harkins. Subs Not Used: Soutar, Casement, Young.
Att: 5,201
Ref: I Brines

On Holiday

I'm on holiday in sunny Manila, I will update website when l get back on the 5th of February. Just hope that Dundee FC win this Saturday, and it's keeps our aim of promotion on track.

Lastest News From Dens Park..

Dundee have been given permission to speak to Falkirk's captain Darren Barr, whose is out of contract in the summer. Hearts and a string of Championship clubs are also interested so we can only hope Jocky Scott does the business.

Dundee will now play Livingston on Tuesday 19th of January in the 4th Round of the Scottish Cup, if a replay is needed it will take place on Thursday 21st of January. So the club face a lot of games in the next two weeks. First this Sunday when Dunfermline come to Dens for a vital league game, so we must focus on that for the meantime.

Manager Jocky Scott has been awarded the Irn Bru Phenomenal First Division Manager of the Month for December. That was after midfielder Gary Harkins picked up the player of the Month. Well done to the both of them.

Dundee have signed keeper Soapy Soutar until the end of the season, a good move seeing Tony Bullock is still out injured. Defender David Cowan should be back to near fitness in February, so his return will be a big boost. Dundee also failed in a loan bid for Celtic defender Darren O'Dea who has opted to go back to the Championship in England.

Dundee 0 Airdrie United 1, Dens Park, First Division, 03-Jan-10

In a game that beat the weather, it turned out to be a bad start to 2010 for Dundee when they lost 1-0 to lowly Airdrie. In a game where l think we played okay at times, but did not take our chances when early on Pat Clark hit the bar when a wee bit luck it goes in. Then Ritchei Hart id fouled in the box and a penalty is given. On fire Leigh Griffiths steps up but Airdrie keeper Robertson makes a good save. Then Airdrie go up the park soon after and they also win a penalty, it looked soft to me but O'Carroll scores with ease. Then things got even harder when Gary MacKenzie gets sent off for a challenge on the Airdrie keeper after he spills the ball. Into the second half and we just can't break down the Airdrie defence, the visitor should have scored a second when Malone lost the ball at the edge of the box and O'Carroll blasted wildly over from 12 yards. Dundee did create a great chance near the end and Ritchie Hart should have scored but shot against the keepers legs. So time ran out and our home record was gone, Airdrie deserve their win, and Dundee must improve in some departments to get back to winning ways. I also think we missed Gary Harkins today, so glad he misses just the one game.

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Malone, Hart, Kerr, Klimpl (Young 76), Forsyth, Clarke (McMenamin 62), Griffiths. Subs Not Used: Soutar, Benedictis, Casement.
Att: 4,319
Ref: C Brown

After viewing the highlights on DFC TV is was a penalty to Airdrie.

Game On.........

Pitch has passed it's inspection at 10am, so great news the Game is on.

Latest News from Dens...

Dundee will play Airdrie United at Dens Park on Sunday with a 3pm kick-off. The fixture was swapped after it was clear New Broomfield would not be playable on Saturday. Common sense has been used this time, however their will be a 10am pitch inspection, but hope all the hard work gets rewarded. Well done to the fans who gave up their time to clear the snow and ice outside the stands, a job well done.

Dundee have been linked with various players, Willo Flood, Pedro Moutiho, Ryan Stevenson and Charlie Mulgrew to name a few. I'm sure Jocky Scott will go and get what he needs for the second half of the season.

Inverness CT 1 Dundee 1, Tulloch Caledonian Stadium, First Division, 26/Dec/09

Dundee ended the year with a well deserved 1-1 draw, in a first half performance in which was likely our best of the season so far. They created so many chances and really should have had it wrapped up at half time. But only had a Leigh Griffths penalty right on half time to show for their efforts. The penalty was given after a reckless challenge from Djebi-Zadi, Leigh got up and blasted the ball home to give Dundee a half time lead. To their credit Inverness CT came into the game and had various chances, and hit the bar from a free kick. Strangely given when Dundee keeper Rab Douglas got booked for marking the pitch, yes a booking but not a free kick. Caley Thistle squared the game after a very slack pass back from Kerr put Adam Rooney through and he made no mistake. Dundee did have a few chances as well, and looked very dangerous on the break. Near the end Gary Harkins got send off for a second bookable offence, it looked a bit soft to me. A good point in the end and keeps our unbeaten run going.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, Kerr, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Forsyth (Klimpl 83), Hart, Griffiths, McMenamin (Clarke 87), Harkins. Subs Not Used: Benedictis, Cameron, Soutar.
Att: 3,660

Dundee 3 Morton 1, Dens Park, First Division, 19/Dec/09

Morton started well and tested the home side on 13 minutes when keeper Rab Douglas saved a Weatherson free-kick. Dundee responded with Harkins, Griffiths and Hart all forcing Stewart into saves, the keeper's low stop from Griffiths just before the half-hour mark being a top-quality reaction stop. The league leaders took the lead nine minutes into the second half when Griffiths scored his 14th goal of the season. Craig Forsyth's whipped cross from the left was met expertly by the young Dundee striker who neatly pulled away from his marker to head low to the keeper's left and put the Dark Blues ahead. But Morton levelled just six minutes later when Weatherson connected with a fierce ball from the right to power a strong header past Douglas. A glorious move and finish restored Dundee's lead in the 65th minute, leaving Morton boss James Grady fuming at his side's lack of defensive nous. Griffiths picked the ball up near the half-way line on the left and neatly played in Ritchie Hart, who embarked on a lung-bursting 50-yard run into the visitors box. Hart could have shot but instead unselfishly squared to meet the onrushing Harkins, who finished with a clinical low shot past Stewart. Erik Paartalu forced a fine reaction save from Douglas in the 70th minute, when he drove a wicked shot at the keeper from 14 yards, the former Scotland stopper standing up brilliantly to parry. The home side wrapped up all three points two minutes from time when full-back Malone raced on to a corner from the left to head powerfully into the net.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, Kerr, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Forsyth, Hart, Griffiths (Clarke 81), McMenamin, Harkins (Klimpl 82). Subs Not Used: Soutar, Benedictus, Cameron.
Att: 4,259
Wonderful result for Dundee, only gripe is I wish they would start games better. But really they do the job in the second half, so l can't complain too much. My MOM goes to Ritchie Hart.

Dundee 3 Ayr United 1, Dens Park, First Division, 12/Dec/09

Ayr took the lead in the 3rd minutes when a Woodburn pass that found lively striker Reynolds, who was almost visibly surprised at the room he found before giving Ayr the early lead. Dundee took some time to recover and Ayr looked the livelier side for the opening 20 minutes, but Forsyth headed past Ayr keeper Craig Samson to level the scoring. Eight minutes later, Harkins ghosted across the penalty area to connect with a Forsyth corner from the right, but his glancing header whipped just wide of Samson's far post. Six minutes after that, Colin McMenamin raced through the visitors' defence to go one-on-one with Samson, but his low shot to the keeper's right saw the former Dundee man make a very agile leap to beat the ball away for a corner. In the second half, Ayr scorned a great chance to restore their lead when Ryan Borris drove the ball straight at Douglas, but the former Scotland goalkeeper stood up well to make an instinctive stop and keep Dundee level. Griffiths then had a couple of good chances, the first from 14 yards well saved by the impressive Samson, the second being a half volley that the young striker miscued and sent wide. Then Harkins headed straight at Samson from a corner on the right, but the Ayr keeper made good contact to smother the ball safely. Dundee were growing into the game - Ritchie Hart gave a powerful midfield performance until he was replaced by Colin Cameron - and some tidy football was in evidence from Griffiths, Harkins and Forsyth as they probed the visitors' defence for gaps. They found the first of those gaps in the 66th minute, when Griffiths raced into the box on the left side to shoot high past Samson from 14 yards - the striker's 13th goal of the season. They found the second gap in the last minute of normal time, when Harkins made his way into the 18-yard box on the left, shaped to square the ball across the six yard line, but instead shifted his weight to shoot between Samson and his near post to score his 12th goal of the season. There was no way back for Ayr after that and Dundee ran out comfortable winners.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, Kerr, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Forsyth, Hart (Cameron 78), Griffiths (Clarke 90), McMenamin, Harkins. Subs Not Used: Soutar, Benedictus, Young.
Att: 4,323
Ref: S Finnie
Another great win for the club, and they played some great football.

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

Former player Milan Palenik was in the stand on Saturday, and manager Jocky Scott confirmed he will look at the defender in the next few days. Richie Hart will get treatment for the ankle knock he took on Saturday, hopefully he will be fit for Saturdays game at Dens against Ayr United.

Partick Th 0 Dundee 2, Firhill, First Division, 05/Dec/09

Dundee went 5 points clear at the top of the league after winning 2-0. In a day where results went for us, and we proved we can win away from home when it matters. Partick will feel hard done by, but it's goals that count and scoring either side of half time sealed the victory. Partick had a great chance when Rab Douglas made a hash of a kick out , and they worked it out wide to Steve Lovall for a great chance , but he curled it wide. The jags had more chances but found Rab Douglas in good form, with Leigh Griffiths missing Darren Young made his first start of the season. But against the run of play Colin McMenamin scored after his first effort was cleared off the line, but he was quick to react and shot high into the net to give Dundee a half-time lead. Into the second half and Dundee went for the killer second goal, first Harkins had a shot turned away for a corner, but in 47mins he sealed the points with a great strike, smashing the ball home from a Craig Forsyth cross. After that Dundee controlled the game with some marvellous touches from Gary Harkins, he went off near the end , and even the Jags fans applauded him. Also having a good game was Darren Young , who showed he is a very good player when fit. So a very good week for Dundee, and maybe coming back to win the Alba Cup two weeks ago has given them the self belief to go on and win this league.

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, Kerr, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Forsyth, Hart (Cameron 46), Young (Clarke 80), McMenamin, Harkins (Casement 86). Subs Not Used: Soutar, Benedictus.
Att: 4,453
Ref: C Thomson

Ross County 0 Dundee 1, Victoria Park, First Division, 01/Dec/09

Dundee won this thanks a second half Gary Harkins goal. He headed home in the 69th minute from a Craig Forsyth corner. By reports we had to dig deep for the 3 points, but they might prove vital come the end of the season.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, Kerr, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Forsyth, Hart (Young 84), Griffiths (Clarke 84), McMenamin, Harkins. Subs Not Used: Soutar, Benedictus, Cameron.
Att: 2,005
Referee: S Nicholls

Scottish Cup Draw...........

Dundee will play Clyde or Livingston away in the 4th Round of the Active Nation Scottish Cup, when the draw was made today at Hampden. Full draw is :
Inverness CT v. Motherwell
Hamilton v. Rangers
Morton/Dumbarton v. Celtic
Hibs v. Irvine Meadow
St Mirren v. Cowdenbeath/Alloa
Raith/Peterhead v. Airdrie United
Dunfermline v. Stenhousemuir/Cove
Forfar v. St Johnstone
Clyde/Livingston v. Dundee
Albion Rovers v. Stirling Albion
Aberdeen v. Hearts
Edinburgh City v. Montrose
Partick Thistle v. Dundee United
Ross County v. Inverurie Loco Works
Ayr United v. Wick/Brechin City
Kilmarnock v. Falkirk
Ties to played over the weekend of January 9.

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

Good news on the injury front, scans on Eric Paton and Sean Higgins reveal no major damage, and both could be fit for the trip to Dingwall on Tuesday. Meanwhile Craig Mckeown has started light training for the first time this year.

Dundee 3 Inverness Caley Th 2, McDiarmid Park, MG Alba Cup Final, 22/Nov/09

The pitch passed a inspection at 9am, and for us Dundee fans we were so happy that it did. In a day where we came back from 2 goals down, in a stunning second half fightback to win the game 3-2. The game started in an open fashion and a Leigh Griffiths cross was headed behind for the game's first corner after only two minutes. Inverness also started brightly and they were inches away from taking the lead in their first attack. A 40-yard Grant Munro pass released Jonny Hayes on the right and his pass across the goalmouth was begging to be put in, however Richie Foran could only find the side-netting. As the game continued to swing from end to end, goalkeeper Ryan Esson saved a Sean Higgins header and Inverness' Spanish striker Danni Sanchez rattled the bar after Adam Rooney had cut the ball back from the bye-line.The goal the fans deserved came when Caley Thistle edged ahead on 20 minutes, when Hayes crossed from the right and Rooney darted in to head home from seven yards.In 32 minutes Sanchez let fly and his goalbound shot was deflected wide, however the second goal was only delayed. Hayes swung over the kick from the right and as Dundee struggled to clear Foran headed towards goal and Nauris Bulvitis stuck out a foot to flick the ball home.As Inverness looked for a killer goal, Rooney and Golabek went close before the half-time whistle blew and Scott's side left the field to a chorus of boos from their large travelling support in the crowd of 8,031.However, Dundee had their fans back on board three minutes after the restart as they reduced the deficit when Harkins fed Richie Hart on the right and his cross was turned in by a combination of the head of striker Higgins and the unfortunate Latvian Bulvitis.The game was turned on its head on 52 minutes when Dundee levelled. Esson spilled a shot from Forsyth and Harkins was on to it in a flash to fire the ball home from six yards out.we had some real good chances and I thought Leigh Griffiths was going to score but overtouched the ball when rounding Esson. Dundee's transformation into cup winners was completed seven minutes from time when Harkins got to the right touchline and cut the ball back to Forsyth, who was standing on his own eight yards out and he powered a first-time, right-foot shot home. Inverness substitute Dougie Imrie was dismissed less than two minutes after coming on as he halted a break from Dundee substitute Pat Clarke, who had been on the field even less time, with a crude challenge.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton (Benedictis 73), Malone, Kerr, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Forsyth, Hart, Griffiths (Clarke 90), Higgins (McMenamin 65), Harkins. Unused subs: Cameron, Soutar.
Ref: C.Richmond
Att: 8,031
In what was the best feeling in the world, as Dundee came back to lift the Alba Cup..a huge party was to follow and went into Monday for me as day off my work, due to my shift system. I seen a lot of happy fellow Dees. 

My Cup Final Tix

Latest news Brian Kerr has starting training again, hopefully he will be fit for Sunday. Paul McHale is ruled out with a injury picked up on Saturday. Dundee will bring a big support to Perth on Sunday, just hope the weather clams down a bit, with heavy rain forecasted for Fri/Sat.

Dundee 0 Queen Of the South 0, Dens Park, First Division, 14/November/09

Top of the table clash at Dens on Saturday turned into a dull 0-0 draw. Which keeps Queens top on goal difference. Dundee without Leigh Griffiths and Brian Kerr. With Colin McMenamin replaced by Pat Clarke who started his first game. Colin Cameron came into midfield. It was Cameron who's shot over the bar in the first half of few chances. Queens were happy to sit in and take the draw. Dundee created the better of the chances throughout, although they rarely troubled keeper David Hutton. It took almost an hour before Hutton was called on to make a save, when a superb through ball from Gary Harkins deserved more from Craig Forsyth.It was pretty poor stuff and we will have to play a lot better next week at Perth in the Alba Cup Final.. 

Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale (Hart 60), MacKenzie, Lauchlan, Forsyth, Cameron, Clarke (McMenamin 76), Higgins, Harkins. Subs Not Used: Soutar, Benedictus, Rennie.

Att: 4,901 

Ref: A Law

Dundee Und 3 Dundee 1, Tannadice, 10/November/09

The Dark Blues were all in white, while the Tangerines donned their new black centenary strip for the first time. The home side had the first real chance on seven minutes when an error by Eddie Malone set Cadamarteri free inside the box. The Englishman should have tucked his shot away before Dens keeper Derek Soutar had an opportunity to save. Dundee were next to threaten, though, with a deflection taking a Mc-Menamin strike just past the post on 12 minutes. Cadamarteri then ran half the park before laying a perfect cross on for Shala, whose header had Soutar scurrying across his goal. That may have been close but Shala’s next effort definitely hit the target. When Soutar and Darren Dods challenged for a high ball inside the box, neither claimed it and it fell to the feet of the defender. He squar-ed to Shala and the young German poked it over the line from a couple of yards out to make it 1-0 to United. The first of many substitutions was made on 24 minutes, with United replacing the injured Kenneth with Mihael Kovacevic, Sean Dillon moving from right-back to central defence. Shala almost made it two when another header required Soutar to tip the ball around the post, before the Tannadice men had a “goal” ruled out for offside after a Cadamarteri chip was rammed into the net by Danny Swanson. Up at the other end, Dundee got a real goal, pulling themselves level with 34 minutes gone. When Harkins played the ball forward Tangerines’ sub Kovacevic, not on the park for long, let it bounce and that gave too much time and space to Pat Clarke, who produced a fine finish to make it 1-1. That was how it stayed until half-time and when the teams reappeared United had three new faces in their side, with David Robertson, Greg Cameron and Jeno Myrie-Williams replacing Scott Robertson, Buaben and Craig Conway. A Harkins cross had to be cleared by Dillon up at one end before United came close to regaining the lead at the other, with sub Cameron’s great ball in from the left eluding Shala’s boot by an inch at the back post. Both teams made a batch of substitutions after the hour, with United introducing Daly, Keith Watson and Dale Hilson, and Dundee bringing on Craig Forsyth, Michael Hutcheon and Connor Rennie. United appeared to adapt the better to the chopping and changing and they made it 2-1 on 66 minutes. David Robertson’s flick-on sent Cadamarteri racing through the middle of the visitors’ defence and he made sure by blasting the ball past Soutar from just outside the six-yard box. The hosts were on top now and it was no surprise when they made it three on 74 minutes. Cameron played a neat pass out to Dixon on the left flank and the former Dundee man’s excellent delivery was nodded home by the diving Daly, with Soutar able to get a hand to the ball but unable to keep it out of the net. Cadamarteri made way for Kevin Smith and the new boy announced his arrival with a great 30-yard effort that had the fans in the Eddie Thompson Stand on their feet. United had the Dens men on the rack now and Daly had a snap-shot that Soutar palmed away for a corner, then the big Irishman had another go only for the goalie’s save to be even better second time around.
Dundee:Soutar, Paton (Forsyth 65), Malone (Hutcheon 65), Cameron, Benedictus, Lauchlan (Rennie 65), Hart, Young, Clarke, McMenamin (Thomson 84), Harkins. Subs not used: Somerville, Bartlett, Spark.
Att: 7,774
Referee: Callum Thomson.

Dundee 2 Airdrie Und 1, Dens Park, First Division, 07/November/09

Dundee were without goalkeeper Tony Bullock because of a knee injury so Rab Douglas, a fellow veteran, was drafted in following his return from his own fitness issues. Any rustiness was tested within minutes, as Baird fired an angled shot across his body from 18 yards but the 37-year-old got down well to block. Dundee's first tangible opportunity came on 10 minutes when Leigh Griffiths, electrifying as ever, drifted to the left before landing a cross square on Sean Higgins' head. The striker timed his run well but somehow nodded over from six yards. Dundee should have made more of an opening three minutes later, though, when Colin McMenamin broke through on the angle and tried to lash a shot across goalkeeper Stephen Robertson's body. But the striker dallied slightly too long, allowing Simon Storey to get back and block with his thigh. Higgins then contrived to miss another glorious chance, again nodding well wide after a cross was planted square on his head. Dundee had to replace Gary MacKenzie, who appeared to be suffering from illness, with midfielder Gary Harkins introduced. Airdrie then gave their hosts a lesson in clinical finishing, as Baird scored the opener. Dundee failed to clear a ball into the box properly and were punished when it fell to Baird, who flicked a shot beyond Douglas from 12 yards out. The lead was short-lived, though, as Dundee equalised within four minutes. It was a moment of atonement for Higgins, who finally provided the finish Leigh Griffiths' crossing deserved by flicking a header over Robertson from eight yards. Sean Higgins then added another on 37 minutes, squeezing a powerful drive in at the near post from 18 yards. Dundee should have gone three ahead on 56 minutes when Griffiths played through Harkins but he shot narrowly wide. The Dark Blues had to survive a scare on the hour mark when Scott McLaughlin was given too much space on the edge of the box but Douglas repelled his shot with a fine two-handed save. Douglas got Dundee out of jail on 74 minutes by brilliantly saving after a defensive lapse allowed McCann through on goal.
Dundee: Douglas, Paton, Malone, McHale, MacKenzie (Harkins 19), Lauchlan, McMenamin, Kerr (Cameron 78), Griffiths, Higgins (Hart 89), Forsyth.Subs Not Used: Soutar, Casement.
Att: 4,121
Ref: F McDermott

Lastest From Dens Park..

Dundee took all the awards for October as Jocky Scott got manager of the month, Tony Bullock got player of the month, he has been outstanding, and again Leigh Griffiths got young player.

Dundee FC striker Leigh Griffiths has been named in the Scotland Under-21 squad for the European Championship qualifier in Azerbaijan. The 19-year-old has been rewarded for scoring ten times for the Dens Park side, who are currently joint top of the Irn-Bru First Division.

Dunfermline Ath 1 Dundee 1, East End park, First Division, 31/October/09

Dundee managed to get a point at East End on saturday, in a first half where we were lucky not to be 3-4 goals down. Second half was much better and we will gladly take the point. The Pars s were unlucky not to score after four minutes when Willie Gibson turned inside Dens defender Eric Paton and his shot from the rightflashed inches past goalkeeper Tony Bullock's post. If that was an early wake-up call for Dundee they got another one as Greg Ross let fly, but the ball was deflected away for a corner to the relief of the Dundee fans.Dundee were living dangerously and there was another scare when Andy Kirk shot over the bar.By their high standards Leigh Griffiths and Sean Higgins were having a quiet time up front for Dundee, although the blue-booted Griffiths was only a whisker away from applying the finishing touch to a Gary MacKenzie knock-on.Dundee, however, stepped up the tempo after the break and a Griffiths drive from only a few yards out was brilliantly blocked by on-loan Oldham goalkeeper Greg Fleming. Then, a Gibson shot on the turn was pushed around the post by Bullock as Pars re-applied the pressure. But the home fans were left stunned when Gary Harkins headed home a Sean Higgins corner on the hour mark before substitute Graham Bayne, who had only just come on, levelled the match with his first touch of the ball, a header from Gibson's free-kick.Then Bullock produced a stunning one-handed save to stop David Graham's net-bound shot with eight minutes left.
Dundee: Bullock, Malone, Paton, Forsyth, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, McHale, Kerr, Griffiths, Higgins (McMenamin 77), Harkins (Hart 89). Subs Not Used: Casement, Clarke, Soutar.
Att: 4,001
Ref: E Norris

Latest News From Dens Park...

Dundee’s Maros Klimpl will undergo knee surgery to sort out a wee problem. It is a blow to the team but we should have enough cover for the midfield, with Colin Cameron fit again. Also going under the knife is defender David Cowan and the groin injury victim is facing a lengthy rehab. Dundee will likely try and sign a centre half now. With a few rumours going about the pubs after the Rangers game.

Dundee 1 Rangers 3, Dens Park, Cis Cup 1/4 Final, 27/October/09

Dundee made two changes to the team that started against Raith Rovers on Saturday. Injury ruled out the experienced Maros Klimpl, while dropping to the bench was striker Colin McMenamin. In came Gary Harkins to the midfield and Sean Higgins joined Leigh Griffiths in attack. The game kicked off and Rangers, playing in red shirts, were on the back foot after four minutes when a Harkins pass went beyond their defence, but Griffiths could not get the ball under control. Fleck sent a shot wide before Kyle Lafferty nodded on to former Dens man Novo in front of goal but there was a late flag for offside. Rangers were in the ascendancy and it took a fine save from keeper Bullock to thwart Novo after a fine low ball from Fleck. The Dundee dam looked like it would burst at any time and burst it did on 15 minutes as Fleck fired over a corner from the right and Whittaker rose to head into the net to make it 1-0. Dundee had a claim for a penalty dismissed just a minute later when midfielder Craig Forsyth went down in the box after a challenge by keeper Neil Alexander. It looked a decent shout but ref Dougie McDonald never blinked. But the Dark Blues could not be denied on 29 minutes when a wonder strike from Leigh Griffiths brought them level. After Kevin Thomson brought down Harkins, they got a freekick 20 yards out and in line with the centre of Alexander’s goal. Up stepped wee “Sparky” and his setpiece curled into the goalie’s top right- hand corner. On 36 minutes, Griffiths tied Rangers full-back Stevie Smith in knots before lashing a strike at Alexander’s near post and the keeper did well to palm the ball away. Dundee’s fine comeback earned them a round of applause on their way back out for the second period. The home side had another plea for a penalty turned down on 49 minutes when Griffiths claimed he was barged, but once again the ref said no. Griffiths was in the mood and, after dancing around more despairing tackles, he again saw Alexander thwart him at the near post. Out of the blue, the Dark Blues gifted Rangers a goal and it was ex-Ibrox man MacKenzie who was the culprit. A Whittaker long ball was floated into the area from the right on 58 minutes and there appeared to be little threat until the Dundee defender headed the ball backwards, over Bullock and in off the far post. Dundee changed things around in attack, bringing on Pat Clarke for Higgins and McMenamin for Griffiths, while Rangers introduced Steven Naismith for Beasley. McMenamin was involved quickly and got on the end of a Harkins cross from the left, but the ball flew over. It wasn’t to be Dundee’s night, though, as Rangers wrapped up their semi-final spot with a superb third goal with five minutes left on the clock. A clever chip forward from Thomson from inside his own half sent Novo flying up the left flank, and he passed to Fleck, who swept his shot past Bullock.
Dundee:Bullock, Paton, Malone, Forsyth, MacKenzie, Lauchlan, McHale, Kerr (Hart 79), Griffiths (McMenamin 72), Higgins (Clarke 69), Harkins. Subs not used:Soutar, Casement.

Att: 10,654
Ref: D McDonald.

Tough on Dundee l thought they played very well, and were really unlucky with the first two goals, as the first one Whittaker's header on off target until it hit Eric Paton's leg. A wonder strike from Leigh Griffiths, what a talent and gets better all the time. 

Dundee 2 Raith Rovers 1, Dens Park, First Division, 24/October/09

Dundee moved to the top of the league with a hard fought victory at Dens Park. The Dundee fans won't care about the heavy rain and windy conditions. Dundee took the lead after 15 minutes when Colin McMenamin fired home from close range after a goalmouth scramble. Raith levelled three minutes later when Darren Smith slotted the ball home from Gregory Tade's accurate cross. Defender Gary MacKenzie restored Dundee's lead after being fed by Leigh Griffiths. After the break Gary Harkins, on for Griffiths, who left the field to a richly deserved standing ovation, fired in a low shot but Raith keeper David McGurn saved superbly. McGurn repeated the feat with 10 minutes remaining when he scrambled to his right to beat away Sean Higgins's low drive when the Dundee man was one on one with him. In injury time on form Tony Bullock made a wonder save to keep a Walker header out, which was heading for the top corner. The 3 points were sealed and top place was secured.

Dundee: Bullock, Paton, Malone, Klimpl (Harkins 71), MacKenzie, Lauchlan, McHale, Kerr, Griffiths (Higgins 83), McMenamin, Forsyth. Subs Not Used: Soutar, Casement, Clarke.
Att: 5,156
Ref: C Brown

Morton 0 Dundee 1, Cappielow Park, First Division, 17/October/09

Dundee had to battle hard to earn a much needed win, and a great goal from inform striker Leigh Griffths sealed the points. Dundee started slowly and Morton had a few chances, we seemed happy to hit on the break with the midfield sitting a bit deep. Morton almost broke the deadlock when Tony Bullock parried Peter Weatherson's effort and Jim McAlister's follow up was blocked on the line by David Cowan. Our efforts in the first half was a Klimpl shot which just about hit the corner flag, also Leigh Griffiths had one chalked off for offside. Into the second half and Dundee have a double escape when Bullock then turned a Weatherson shot onto the post, and McGuffie had two headers saved. Dundee did have a Colin McMenamin goal chalked off for offside. It looked good from where I was sitting. Then with 13min remaining neat play on the wing and McHale floated a perfect ball over into the path of Leigh Griffths who kept his cool and lobbed the keeper from 15 yards , a true class finish.
Dundee: Bullock, Paton, Malone, Klimpl, MacKenzie, Cowan, Hart (Kerr 83), McHale, Griffiths (Higgins 90), McMenamin (Clarke 75), Forsyth. Subs Not Used: Cameron, Soutar.
Att: 2,217
Ref: B Winter

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.