This Is Not The Greatest Title In The World, This Is Just A Tribute

[Brian of Nazareth]

Dumbarton Stats

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Dumbarton - Wednesday 15th May 2013

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Squad

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No Name Position(s) Nat Born Age Caps Gls Wages Expires Value

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8 Arnesson, Thomas S C SWE 10.8.82 30 - - £1.7K 24.6.14 £110K

25 Artur DM RC ESP 17.3.81 32 - - £1.2K 26.5.14 £10K

24 Barker, Paul D/DM LC ENG 4.12.88 24 - - £65 20.6.14 £22K

12 Black, Ian S C SCO 10.4.85 28 - - £1.1K 16.6.13 £5K

2 Blake, Michael D RC ENG 31.12.86 26 - - £1.7K 10.6.14 £70K

6 Bueno, Alejandro DM C ESP 19.9.87 25 - - £1.5K 28.6.16 £130K

7 Clemence, Stephen M C ENG 31.3.78 35 - - £1.7K 10.6.14 £20K

29 Cresswell, Richard F RC ENG 20.9.77 35 - - £1.7K 22.6.14 £16K

31 Ferrari, Matteo D C ITA 5.12.79 33 - - £1.7K 22.6.14 £80K

4 Graham, Craig D C SCO 17.1.84 29 - - £1.7K 27.6.14 £110K

3 Hitzlsperger, Thomas D/M L GER 5.4.82 31 - - £1.6K 5.6.14 £60K

22 James, Kevin D C SCO 3.12.75 37 - - £1.7K 28.6.13 £1K

- Kidd, Terry D/DM C SCO 1.9.83 29 - - £975 28.6.14 Free

13 McDonald, Kevin AM/F R SCO 21.4.83 30 - - £950 28.6.14 £65K

14 McFadden, James M C SCO 13.8.83 29 - - £1.5K 8.6.14 £30K

1 Meldrum, Colin GK SCO 26.11.75 37 6 - £1.4K 1.6.13 £16K

15 Miller, Liam M C IRL 13.2.81 32 - - £1.2K 1.6.14 £75K

10 Moore, Mark S C SCO 4.3.91 22 - - £350 25.6.15 £55K

28 Murray, Seán D C IRL 3.6.85 27 - - £1K 5.6.13 £1K

20 Reilly, Colin M C SCO 11.2.80 33 - - £550 15.6.15 £65K

32 Reuser, Alex M/F LC AUT 6.7.84 28 68 16 £1.7K 26.6.15 £375K

16 Roche, Barry GK IRL 19.10.83 29 - - £1.3K 26.6.16 £60K

23 Scott, Kevin D/DM C SCO 1.2.85 28 - - £825 16.6.15 £35K

18 Shanks, Scott D LC SCO 21.7.84 28 - - £1.1K 20.6.13 £3K

9 Simpson, Keith S C ENG 27.3.85 28 - - £1.7K 8.6.14 £170K

26 Sinclair, Brian D C SCO 17.7.88 24 - - £0 22.5.13 £850K

- Smith, Darren M LC SCO 4.6.80 32 - - £120 22.6.13 £14K

17 Stewart, Willie DM C SCO 10.11.87 25 - - £675 2.6.14 £150K

30 Wilkinson, Alan S C ENG 29.10.83 29 24 13 £1.7K 22.6.13 £450K

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2012/3 Senior Club Stats

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No Name Apps Gls Con Pens Asts Yel Red MoM Av R

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8 Arnesson, Thomas 14 (3) 6 0 0 1 1 0 0 6.76

25 Artur 1 (1) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6.50

24 Barker, Paul 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7.00

12 Black, Ian 3 (2) 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 6.80

2 Blake, Michael 13 (2) 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 6.40

6 Bueno, Alejandro 28 (2) 6 0 0 2 4 0 0 6.97

7 Clemence, Stephen 20 (3) 1 0 0 2 0 0 1 6.70

29 Cresswell, Richard 9 (8) 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 6.71

31 Ferrari, Matteo 19 (5) 0 0 0 3 5 0 0 6.83

4 Graham, Craig 16 (4) 0 0 0 3 2 0 0 7.05

3 Hitzlsperger, Thomas 26 (1) 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 6.26

22 James, Kevin 5 (7) 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 6.58

- Kidd, Terry 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ----

13 McDonald, Kevin 23 (2) 4 0 0 3 2 0 1 6.88

14 McFadden, James 11 (12) 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 6.57

1 Meldrum, Colin 17 0 27 0 0 0 0 1 6.94

15 Miller, Liam 24 (10) 5 0 1 (1) 7 0 0 3 7.38

10 Moore, Mark 1 (1) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6.50

28 Murray, Seán 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7.00

20 Reilly, Colin 13 (2) 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 6.80

32 Reuser, Alex 23 (3) 8 0 0 2 2 0 2 7.58

16 Roche, Barry 25 0 44 0 0 0 0 1 7.00

23 Scott, Kevin 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5.00

18 Shanks, Scott 3 (1) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5.75

9 Simpson, Keith 20 (12) 7 0 0 2 2 1 0 6.84

26 Sinclair, Brian 5 (2) 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 6.71

- Smith, Darren 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ----

17 Stewart, Willie 18 (4) 1 0 0 5 2 0 0 6.91

30 Wilkinson, Alan 24 (4) 11 0 0 7 3 0 2 7.18

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2012/3 Transfers

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Date Player In From Fee

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18.6.12 Philippe Mexès Q.P.R. Bos

20.6.12 Scott Shanks Barnet Bos

29.7.12 Mark Moore Free Transfer Free

30.7.12 Steve Coleman Swindon Loan

30.7.12 Simon Flynn Coventry Loan

30.7.12 Gary Davies Chelsea Loan

5.8.12 Kevin James Free Transfer Free

20.8.12 Colin Reilly Free Transfer Free

21.8.12 Gordon Bennett Coventry Loan

23.8.12 Brian Sinclair Brentford Loan

23.8.12 James Strachan Watford Loan

24.8.12 Craig Munro Swansea Loan

27.8.12 Richard Cresswell Free Transfer Free

27.8.12 Alan Wilkinson Free Transfer Free

28.8.12 Matteo Ferrari Free Transfer Free

30.8.12 Simon Flynn Coventry Loan

1.9.12 Alex Reuser Free Transfer Free

24.9.12 Brian Sinclair Brentford Loan

21.10.12 Gordon Bennett Coventry Loan

23.10.12 Brian Sinclair Brentford Loan

24.10.12 Craig Munro Swansea Loan

30.10.12 Steve Coleman Swindon Loan

30.10.12 Simon Flynn Coventry Loan

12.11.12 Grant O'Neil Lincoln Loan

20.11.12 Gordon Bennett Coventry Loan

3.1.13 Gary Davies Chelsea Loan

24.2.13 Brian Sinclair Brentford Loan

1.3.13 Simon Flynn Coventry Loan

5.3.13 Kevin Day Swansea Loan

6.3.13 Phil Dean Swansea Loan

6.3.13 Matt Lyons Bristol R Loan

4.4.13 Ryan Ashford Wycombe Loan

5.4.13 Kevin Day Swansea Loan

Date Player Out To Fee

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5.6.12 Alan Carson Stoke Bos

13.6.12 Craig Oliver Livingston Free

23.6.12 Alex Caldwell Bournemouth Bos

13.7.12 John Scott Kilmarnock £275K

28.8.12 Terry Kidd Elgin City Loan

12.9.12 Carlos Díez Once Caldas £110K

23.9.12 Andy Clark Raith Rovers £24K

11.10.12 Terry Kidd Stenhousemuir Loan

16.11.12 Terry Kidd Alloa Loan

13.1.13 Terry Kidd Alloa Loan

8.2.13 Philippe Mexès Chelsea £400K

14.3.13 Terry Kidd Elgin City Loan

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2012/3 Fixtures

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Opposition Ven Competition Res Attend Scorers

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Drogheda Utd IRL A Friendly 2:0 1348 McDonald, Simpson

U.C.D. IRL A Friendly 0:1 826

Kilkenny City IRL A Friendly 2:0 683 Arnesson, Díez

Dunfermline H Premier Division 1:2 6535 Arnesson

Aberdeen A Premier Division 0:0 10299

Inverness C. Thistle H Premier Division 2:0 6444 Simpson, Arnesson

Stirling H League Cup 2nd Rnd 0:0 700

Rangers A Premier Division 0:3 36855

Dundee Utd H Premier Division 2:1 6492 McDonald, B.Sinclair

Hibs A Premier Division 2:3 14025 Munro, Miller

Kilmarnock H League Cup 3rd Rnd 1:3 2013 Bueno

Celtic A Premier Division 0:3 36799

Kilmarnock H Premier Division 2:3 6518 Wilkinson, L.Miller

Motherwell A Premier Division 0:1 10036

Dundee H Premier Division 3:1 6514 McDonald, Simpson, Bennett pen

Hearts A Premier Division 1:2 15525 McDonald

Dunfermline A Premier Division 2:1 9120 Wilkinson 2

Aberdeen H Premier Division 3:2 7065 Reilly, Miller, McDonald

Inverness C. Thistle A Premier Division 1:2 6371 Simpson

Rangers H Premier Division 1:2 8212 Wilkinson

Motherwell H Premier Division 3:2 7424 A.Wilkinson, G.Bennett, Bueno

Hibs H Premier Division 3:2 6525 Wilkinson, Reuser, Cresswell

Kilmarnock A Premier Division 3:3 14603 Bennett 2, Bueno

Dundee Utd A Premier Division 2:3 12356 Wilkinson, Reuser

Hearts H Premier Division 2:0 6523 Bennett, Reuser

Dundee A Premier Division 2:2 10447 Bennett, Coleman

Celtic H Premier Division 1:3 7735 Simpson

Inverness C. Thistle H Premier Division 2:1 6698 Cresswell, Sinclair

Aberdeen A Premier Division 1:3 10595 Bennett pen

Partick Thistle H Scottish Cup 3rd Rnd 4:1 1485 Arnesson 2, Clemence, Wilkinson

Rangers A Premier Division 1:2 36883 Reuser

Dundee Utd H Premier Division 3:1 6538 Bueno 2, Bennett pen

Kilmarnock H Premier Division 1:0 6497 Simpson

Airdrie H Scottish Cup 4th Rnd 0:0 2169

Airdrie A Scottish Cup 4th Rnd Replay 0:1 6617

Motherwell A Premier Division 0:2 9999

Dunfermline H Premier Division 3:2 6918 Wilkinson, Reuser, Miller

Hibs A Premier Division 2:3 13993 Wilkinson, Simpson

Celtic A Premier Division 0:0 38479

Dundee H Premier Division 1:1 6637 Reuser

Hearts A Premier Division 0:1 15613

Hearts A Premier Division Releg. Grp 6:3 15616 Ashford, Stewart, Simpson, L.Miller

Dundee Utd H Premier Division Releg. Grp 0:0 6518

Inverness C. Thistle A Premier Division Releg. Grp 2:3 6559 Wilkinson, Bueno

Motherwell H Premier Division Releg. Grp 2:1 7614 Noble og, Arnesson

Dundee H Premier Division Releg. Grp 1:2 7357 Reuser

</pre>

[Brian of Nazareth]

Tables

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">

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Scottish Premier Division - Tuesday 14th May 2013

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2012/3 Table

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Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

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1st C Rangers 38 15 3 1 39 9 9 7 3 23 14 82

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2nd Celtic 38 12 5 2 31 17 8 7 4 23 21 72

3rd Hibs 38 12 4 2 36 23 3 5 12 19 34 54

4th Aberdeen 38 11 7 2 29 18 3 4 11 18 35 53

5th Kilmarnock 38 8 5 5 22 14 6 4 10 22 31 51

6th Dunfermline 38 8 6 6 25 21 4 7 7 23 27 49

7th Dundee 38 8 6 5 30 21 3 10 6 18 21 49

8th Dumbarton 38 12 2 5 36 26 2 4 13 25 40 48

9th Dundee Utd 38 7 8 4 26 20 4 2 13 19 30 43

10th Inverness C. Thistle 38 9 7 4 27 20 2 3 13 11 27 43

11th Motherwell 38 9 4 5 19 11 2 4 14 15 32 41

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12th R Hearts 38 9 4 6 31 28 1 4 14 12 39 38

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Scottish First Division - Tuesday 14th May 2013

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2012/3 Table

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Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

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1st C Raith Rovers 36 8 7 3 20 13 11 5 2 30 10 69

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2nd Airdrie 36 10 5 3 31 16 8 5 5 27 24 64

3rd Partick Thistle 36 12 5 1 37 21 4 6 8 27 33 59

4th Morton 36 7 6 5 24 21 5 7 6 17 20 49

5th Livingston 36 8 5 5 25 24 5 2 11 27 40 46

6th Albion Rovers 36 5 5 8 15 19 6 5 7 17 17 43

7th Queen's Park 36 7 5 6 24 24 4 5 9 17 27 43

8th Queen of Sth 36 5 6 7 20 24 4 8 6 17 16 41

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9th R St. Johnstone 36 5 7 6 25 23 3 6 9 23 30 37

10th R Falkirk 36 7 4 7 24 27 1 6 11 10 28 34

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Scottish Second Division - Tuesday 14th May 2013

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2012/3 Table

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Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

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1st C Ayr Utd 36 13 4 1 29 10 13 3 2 34 15 85

2nd P Peterhead 36 8 5 5 25 12 8 7 3 33 27 60

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3rd Clydebank 36 7 7 4 27 24 8 6 4 21 14 58

4th St. Mirren 36 8 4 6 33 33 7 5 6 31 33 54

5th Stranraer 36 9 0 9 38 38 8 2 8 36 33 53

6th Ross County 36 9 3 6 22 18 6 3 9 20 22 51

7th Arbroath 36 6 5 7 22 28 5 4 9 23 28 42

8th East Fife 36 6 4 8 28 32 4 4 10 22 34 38

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9th R Stirling 36 6 3 9 19 23 1 5 12 16 33 29

10th R Stenhousemuir 36 4 6 8 24 33 3 2 13 15 28 29

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Scottish Third Division - Tuesday 14th May 2013

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2012/3 Table

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Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

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1st C East Stirling 36 12 3 3 46 17 12 1 5 39 24 76

2nd P Cowdenbeath 36 11 5 2 33 15 9 5 4 30 21 70

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3rd Brechin 36 11 5 2 35 17 8 5 5 31 26 67

4th Forfar 36 9 4 5 39 20 8 6 4 20 16 61

5th Elgin City 36 9 3 6 22 17 5 10 3 25 21 55

6th Alloa 36 5 7 6 28 26 8 4 6 26 30 50

7th Berwick 36 7 5 6 33 32 6 3 9 21 27 47

8th Clyde 36 4 4 10 20 33 5 2 11 24 45 33

9th Fort William 36 5 3 10 20 29 2 5 11 16 33 29

10th Montrose 36 0 4 14 9 32 1 2 15 6 42 9

</pre>

[Brian of Nazareth]

b] Awards Round Up [/b]

Team

Livingston defeated Ross County 4-1 in the Challenge Cup Final , whilst Inverness Caledonian Thistle needed extra time to secure the League Cup, with a 2-1 victory over Dunfermline, with on loan midfielder Craig Lyons getting the winner. The showpiece Scottish Cup in Scotland was contested between Dunfermline and Aberdeen.

Abroad, West Ham United were victors over surprise finalists Willem II of Holland, thanks to a 3-1 in the UEFA Cup , including a goal from Luigi Pari a striker who had played all 90 minutes in 63 competitive games for West Ham that season. There was an astonishing line up in the Champions League Final as Manchester United were taking on… Manchester City. Possibly one of the most anticipated games in England, the rivalry still created interest through out much of Europe as this would be a game where the winners would have serious bragging rights. As it turned out Manchester City won an exciting game by 3 goals to 2, with Michael O’Neil scoring an 86th minute winner.

Individual

Top Goal Scorer in the Scottish leagues went to 19 year old Steven Chalmers of East Stirling, with 30 goals in 33 games. The Player of the Year award was won by Mark Koeman to some bemusement, as the player had been injured for large chunks of the year and had barely added anything – invigorating rumours the awards were fixed. The Young Player of the Year was won by 21 year old German Roland Kurth of Rangers after a string of fine performances in midfield earned him the award for the third year running.

[Brian of Nazareth]

Dumbarton 2013-2014 Unchartered Territory

Goalkeepers

James Evans 27 The player who left for a million pounds to join Inverness struggled to make any mark at the club, and made only a handfulf appearances. Knowing of his capabilities George was delighted to pick up the Scot for a cut price,425,000 pounds.

Craig Gordon 29 The Dundee back up player arrived on a bosman due to his nationality. He’s ok enough when he has to come in but it was equally clear why he saw so few chances at Dundee.

Colin Meldrum 37 Colin performed as best he could, but the game has come on a long way since he was at his prime, and age is catching up with him. A back up.

12/13 Record: 17 apps, 27 conceded, 6.94

Defenders

Wayne Chapman 29 DL Wayne arrived from Sheffield United for 300,000 pounds in the summer, as George looked to replace the aging Hitzlesperger. Talented he is, but with little competition he’d better not be injured.

Craig Graham 29 DC Signed on a bosman from Rangers, the talented centre half started very slowly but after a while picked up his game and began to impress, especially during the latter stages of the season when his defending was key at times to keeping Dumbarton away from trouble

12/13 Record: 16 starts, 4subs, 3 assists, 1 MoM, 7.05

Terry Kidd 29 D/DMC The player went on several loan spells at various division 2 and 3 clubs – and performed poorly. He will not be involved unless there are serious injury or suspension problems.

12/13 Record: Never played

Michael Blake 26 DRC The experienced defenseman came in and did a good job at both right back and in central defense occasionally. Not a flashy type he got the job done – and he moved on fine in the SPL, with only a few injury problems restricting his appearances.

12/13 Record:13 starts, 2 subs, 3 assists, 6.40

Kevin Scott 28 D/DMC Kevin broke his leg in the reserves, but he hadn’t figured before that. He is wished well in his recovery – and his career away from Dumbarton.

12/13 Record: Never played.

Jamie Carragher 35 D/DMRC Signed on a bosman from Leyton Orient, Jamie provides vital depth to the defensive line. Having played at the top in England, and miraculously with England he has a fine pedigree – and hopefully he can earn a move back south by helping George out for a year.

Jon Wright 23 DL Youg Jon missed all the pre-season stuff aftera huge 24,000 pound move from English Second Division side West Bromwich Albion. The out of favour Scot, was almost as surprised as his club to receive a bid, so he agreed to sign a pathetically crap contract to get away from Tesco Town. As a left sided player, he will also provide cover for Wayne.

Matteo Ferrari 33 DC The Italian defender arrived on a free, after being released by Inter in late August 2012. The veteran proved to be a welcome addition to the back line, and his knowledge of the game was picked up on by his fellow colleagues eager to learn their trade.

12/13 Record: 19 starts, 5 subs, 3 assists, 6.85

Steven MacDonald 30 DC Having struggled at Inverness, Steven jumped at the chance of regular action by signing up with Dumbarton. He’s still got plenty of ability and it is a mystery as to why he never played more often at ICT.

[Brian of Nazareth]

Midfielders

Artur 32 DMC The out of favour midfielder hardly figured at all. Hs contract his expiring and that will not be renewed.

12/13Record: 1 start, 1 sub, 1 assist 6.50

Alejandro Bueno 25 DMC . The Spaniard developed further last year as he shared a sizeable responsibility with Stewart, and as he continues to improve he should prove what an asset he is to this side.

12/13 Record: 28 starts, 2 subs, 6 goals, 2 assists, 2 MoM, 6.97

Stephen Clemence 34 MC Another competent year from the experienced pro, meant he stayed in George’s plans for one more year, if he survived that long.

12/13 Record: 20 starts, 3 subs, 1 goal, 3 assists, 1 MoM, 6.70

James McFadden 29 MC A poor year from James, led to rumours he might be sold off, which George rubbished publically, but admitted privately might be a good source of funds. Inconsistent and seemingly out of his depth, he’ll have to seriously improve this year.

12/13 Record: 11 starts, 17 subs, 6.57

Mark Kerr 30 MC The former Falkirk and Dundee midfielder, arrived in the summer for 150,000 pounds after falling foul of the management at Dundee. A talented Scot with a competent all round game he’ll be a useful player to have in the side.

Kevin MacDonald 30 AMF/RC Kevin has always enjoyed his time sinc arriving from Kilmarnock, in the first division, and he successfully continued his form into the SPL last season. Sometimes subject to niggling injures, George will hope the midfielder can stay away from those, as he looks to cement a regular spot in the side.

12/13 Record: 23 starts, 2 subs, 4 goals, 3 assists, 1 MoM, 6.88

Liam Miller 32 MC The Irish central man again proved to be a vital piece of George’s midfield with his combative style delighting the fans, and combined with an ability to score and provide himself, he should be enjoying his final years here in Dumbarton.

12/13 Record: 24 starts, 10 subs, 5 goals, 7 assists, 3 MoM, 7.38

Willie Stewart 25 DMC When he wasn’t getting himself all injured, Willie performed well in midfield, interlinking play from defense to offense successfully. Another favourite with the crowd, his battle with Bueno will only benefit the club.

12/13 Record: 18 starts, 4 subs, 1 goal, 5 assists, 6.97

Forwards

Gordon Bennett 25 SC After a very successful loan spell at the club, George and the fans were delighted to see him make the move a permanent one.

Keith Simpson 28 SC The Englishman had a harder time of it second time round in the SPL – but he still chipped in with a few goals, and his presence up front always tended to unsettle defenders. Another season of the same would not be a bad year.

12/13 Record: 20 starts, 12 subs, 7 goals, 2 assists, 1 MoM, 6.84

[Brian of Nazareth]

Season 2013-2014 – What Now?

Having successfully avoided relegation this time round, George was left wondering what his target for this season would be. The board wanted the club to avoid relegation, as did George, but what were the limits?

His summer was aided considerably by the selling of some key players. Alex Reuser wanted out, and he ended up moving for 1 million pounds to UEFA Cup finalists Willem II, whilst Thomas Arnesson and Barry Roche also left for 100,000 pounds each, whilst a few assorted players left on frees. That allowed for players to be brought in and George adopted a strong pro-Scottish stance wherever he could. Thomas Hitzlesperger a long term servant of the club, then made a 200,000 pound move to Division One side Hearts.

The pre-season warm up events did allow George the brief pleasure of fielding an all Scottish X1 in the George Cameron Charity Cup. Against Ayr, the patriotic side won 2-0 with Gordon Bennett and Jamie Hughes the scorers, though pesky foreigners did come on in the second half. The other two fixtures inevitably saw success, firstly against Renton by 3-0 with Clemence, Kevin McDonald / and Mark Moore and over Newton Stewart with goals from Gary Barr and Steven McNeil .

[Tyrone the Magazine]

Damn this has come on a long way since I last checked in. Keep forgetting which stories im following, read it all you seem to be doing ok. Good stuff

[Guest]

Have followed this all the way from the beginning and finally caught up - at the expense of doing any work at all... If I get the sack you're to blame.

Seriously though a great story and very inspiring - you have changed my whole attitude to playing the game and now I no longer throw tantrums and quit the game there and then...

Good luck with it..

[Brian of Nazareth]

Thanks to both of you for your comments, appreciated, glad to have stopped you from working DB's Knees - I'll slow down the update and let you get on with some work shall I?

July/ August

League

Once again the season began with a clash against Dunfermline – only this time the tie was away at East End Park. George put out a strong side for this one, 9 of the starters Scottish too, as many fans expectantly looked for signs of a good year to follow. After a bright opening that saw Gordon Bennett test Langfield with 2 reasonable efforts, the hosts took the lead through Jason Burton, who gratefully accepted a pass from Alfie Carter to bend a shot around James Evans . That lead was one that was fiercely protected by the home side, who played a strong defensive game, frustrating Dumbarton for much of the match. In the second half, Dumbarton tried to lift their game up a gear, but there was only 1 strike from Liam Miller to show for their efforts and that was comfortably saved by Langfield as the season opened with a loss.

The first home game of the season saw newly promoted side Raith Rovers visit – and 7000 fans arrived expecting to see a victory. The early proceedings were dominated by the home side, with Gordon Bennett and Paul Millar having several efforts palmed away by Stevie Wilson, before the breakthrough finally arrived a little past the half hour mark. Bennett had a shot palmed away once more to the temporary groans of the fans, but Mark Kerr was on hand to score his first goal for his new club. The remainder of the half and game continued in a similar spirit. The home side dominated, whilst Raith searched for anything they could but to no avail and the points were sealed.

Celtic away proved to be a tougher task unsurprisingly, though it did give a few fans a chance to glimpse at recent signing, 34 year old Gerard . The first quarter of the game to George’s pleasure though was dominated by Dumbarton. Controlled football, that also proved to be aesthetically pleasing stunned the home crowd, and it was a shame no goal arrived from the play, though Paul Millar and Keith MacLeod went close. A failure to score though always invited the hosts to attack, and they did, scoring with their first effort, from Christopher Babangida. That goal invigorated Celtic and they swiftly doubled their advantage not too long after, as Nick Allen punished poor marking. Before half time, a goal was pulled back though as Matteo Ferrari dispatched a penalty after Gerard had been brought down in the area. In the second half, another incisive move resulted in a goal for Mark Koeman and some home supporters may have felt the game was secure. Not so however as a plucky Dumbarton side retorted 10 minutes later, with Alan Wilkinson firing low into the area for Paul Millar to score from. The rest of the game then proved to be quite an even affair with chances falling in equal measure, but after one such miss from Gerard fro \m 12 yards, Celtic countered quickly, earned a penalty and killed the game off in the 84th minute as Nick Allen dispatched the spot kick.

After that disappointment, it was a return to Cliftonhill where the home fans saw the debut of another big-name signing – Ronaldo making a start along with John Wright at left back. Dundee United actually started the brighter, and James Evans had to be alert to keep the likes of Matthew Heywood at bay. However, once the hosts settled into a rythym, chances began flowing at the right end again, and Gerard showed his quality with a deceptively quick chip pass that allowed room for Paul Millar to score his second goal. After that Dumbarton had further chances to extend the lead, but had to wait until the 45th minute when Mark Kerr took a Liam Miller pass in his stride to thump the ball into the back of the net. It would be easy to assume a 2 goal lead at home was a comfortable cushion but George knew work still needed to be done to win this game. When Malcolm Christie then pulled a goal back shortly after the hour mark, George exploded - metaphorically speaking obviously. However, he pulled himself together soon after though as Gerard delighted the crowd by scoring his first goal, following fine work from Liam Miller and Jammie Carragher down the right wing. That settled the team again, and a controlled performance helped see out the rest of the game, with Ronaldo Gerard [/b] and John Wright all receiving warm applause when they were subbed off late on in the game.

Away to Hibs at the end of the month, George rung the changes to freshen up the side and it seemed to work initially. An even first half was probably slightly edged by Hibs, but it was Dumbarton who had the lead - with Steven Monnaghan running down the right before crossing for Alan Wilkinson to score. That lead saw the hosts hit back and Jason Collins should have scored on more than one occasion but Dumbarton held on. After the break, a tough tackling display saw George make a few subs, eager to prevent yellow cards turn into red, but it disrupted his side in the process and Hibs took advantage. They pressed several times, desperate to equalize. As time seemed to run out, and George looked forward to a first away victory, Hibs tied it up – Antonio beating Craig Graham to a loose ball to fire in, and the points were shared.

[Brian of Nazareth]

Cups

League Cup

In the second round, Dumbarton were drawn away to Albion Rovers of the First Division and George knew it would be a tough match – as he hated playing as the away side, even though the sides ground-shared. However, with an improved side, George still felt Dumbarton should go through, and he was prepared to change the team around since the league encounter. The English connection up front started well enough though, as both Keith Simpson and Alan Wilkinson scored either side of an Anthony Boyce strike to put them 2-1 up. However frailties at the back, left Craig Gordon stranded and with 30 minutes to go it was 2-2. As injury forced John Wright and Alan Wilkinson off George feared his side were facing another poor exit. In extra time though he grew in confidence after Albion had a penalty appeal turned down, and then later the winner arrived in the 118th minute. James McFadden swung in a corner and Steven MacDonald headed in – sending Dumbarton into the third round.

Other Monthly News

With the summer sun beating down on George, the Scot tried to lure Barcelona rejects with a small wage and a years supply of battered Mars bars, Ronaldo and Gerard with no success, though former Leeds wing back Stephen Monnaghan arrived on a free transfer to boost the defensive line. The day after his 24th birthday, Paul Miller signed on a free transfer after being released by Coventry. The Scot would add a bit of depth to the front line.

Alan Wilkinson belatedly returned to the club after a brief sabbatical over the summer. His record for the previous year had been :

24 Starts, 4 subs, 11 goals, 7 assists, 2 MoM, 7.18

Artur was released from his contract by mutual consent – allowing the midfielder to seek his wares elsewhere. Another Spaniard astonishingly decided to join. Gerard was keen on extending his career a little while yet as he signed a month-to-month contract with Dumbarton.

Terry Kidd moved on loan to Clyde for a month, before the media whipped up a frenzy at least locally over Dumbarton’s newest short term signing. 36 year old Brazilian Ronaldo signed on until the end of the season and it certainly proved to be a popular move amongst the fans. George conceded they would enjoy a final challenge at the end of the careers, and accepted them into the fold. He still had Englishmen in his side anyway.

Paul Miller signed a 4 year deal, agreeing to stay until 2017, as more Scots committed themselves. Other Scots meanwhile had a big game to think about at International level. 2014 WC Qualifiers were coming to an end and Scotland were hosting Portugal, a must win game if they were to stand a chance of finishing second – though with Sullivan at the helm, George didn’t know what to expect. A game heading for a 0-0 draw, was turned when Stephen Milne of Newcastle scored with 10 minutes to go to the relief of many a fan – as their hopes stayed on course for another year.

[Brian of Nazareth]

September

League

The month kicked off at home against ICT after the International break and George was eager to start on a positive note. A slight change to the line up helped create an excellent start. The game began well for the hosts as Dumbarton appeared far the more confident side. With the continental presence alone acting as an intimidating factor, George was pleased to see chances being converted. Mark Kerr grabbed the first one, after work from Ronaldo and Gerard set up the space for his shot. That was 5 minutes before the interval. 5 minutes after and Kerr had a second time, this time benefiting from Gordon Bennett’s shot being blocked. The cushioned lead took the stuffing out of ICT and they wilted – and George told his players to ease off. Gordon Bennett added a third himself midway through the half to kill off any vague hopes from ICT and it was 3 points that took Dumbarton, temporarily into 4th place in the table.

The next league game was a trip to Dundee, only a few days after the cup match so George knew what to expect – as he restored a few regulars to the line up. A tight first half that saw no goals, livened up in the second though, as both teams played entertaining attacking football. Ronaldo scored his first in Dumbarton colours, set up by but the lead lasted 3 minutes as Marcus Charles continued his impressive run of form. Dumbarton responded by raining shots on goal, but a failure to break through irritatingly saw Charles score again with 15 minutes to go. That sparked a massive onslaught from Dumbarton as Ronaldo, Paul Miller, Liam Miller, Stephen Clemence and Gordon Bennett all went close but they couldn’t score, and George left wondering how on earth he’d managed to lose that one.

The 21st saw another 2-1 fixture, with Dumbarton hosting Kilmarnock in what promised to be another tough contest. After the defeat to Dundee, starts were handed to James Hughes and Steven MacDonald as George sought 3 points. Instead, after barely 4 minutes he saw Scott Miller fly through his entire midfield to set up Estonian Urmas Roona to score his first goal of the season. It took a while for the home side to get back into the game however, with Matteo Ferrari lucky to have avoided a red card after frustrations got the better of him. Still, they persevered and the home fans were rewarded with an excellent goal just before half time. Kevin Franck was the first to react to a loose ball in midfield and he laid the ball out to Liam Miller on the right. The midfielder spotted James Hughes free in the area with a perfect pass and Hughes volleyed in first time to send fans to the toilet in cheerful mood. As the second period began cautiously, both sides not wanting to make a mistake, further frustrations almost saw Steven MacDonald walk but he escaped with a yellow. Subs were introduced shortly after to freshen Dumbarton up and after 10 minutes one of them set up the match winning goal. A poor clearance from new Kilmarnock keeper Petter Westerberg, the former Dumbarton man, landed on the head of Keith MacLeod , who directed the ball forward into the path of James Hughes . The striker, neatly collected it on his instep, dragged the ball inside a defender, and then pausing briefly to pick his spot – curled a sweet effort into the top left hand corner, and the home fans rejoiced. A fine defensive effort helped seal the win, and after 8 games Dumbarton were in 4th place, and George began to believe his side could establish themselves as a top 6 team this year.

The last match of September was away to Aberdeen in 10th place and George was hoping his side would improve on their away record, which currently read 1 draw and 3 defeats from 4 games. With only enforced changes made, and Alejandro Bueno coming in for Willie Stewart , Dumbarton took to the field optimistically. After only 7 minutes though Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, Aberdeen’s Dutch winger had put the hosts 1-0 up. The shots at either end came thick and fast though, with Tony Phillips and James Evans keeping it at 1-0, though Ronaldo and Bueno could count themselves particularly unfortunate not to have broken the deadlock. The equalizer did arrive though on 33 minutes – and it was all down to Gerard . Evading challenges from Gunthor and Carruthers, the midfielder, danced his way past Aberdeen, before striking the ball firmly beyond Phillips’ goal and no one could argue it wasn’t deserved.

With the result staying like so until half time, George encouraged his men to keep on working as they were. In the second, a tough opening quarter preceded the usual hourly substitutions, and another Dumbarton goal. From a James McFadden corner, Steven MacDonald headed goalwards, but his effort was repelled by Phillips. The-rebound did not go far enough however, and Alejandro Bueno was on hand to finish the move. Mark Kerr, Ronaldo and James Hughes had several chances then to finish the tie off but their shots were either rwell saved or well wide. The cost of those misses was magnified by a late, late equalizer from Dennis Norman, a 19 year old Swede making a rare appearance for the home side, and a point suddenly felt like a bitter disappointment.

[Brian of Nazareth]

Cups

League Cup

In the 3rd round Dumbarton face a tough tie at Dundee. Though the hosts had made an indifferent start to their campaign, they still had quality players in their side, including young Giorgio Carboni, a former Dumbarton defender too. It was to George’s pleasant surprise therefore to see Paul Miller connect with a James McFadden centre in the 3rd minute to boost his side. However it was all downhill from there on. A tough first half saw the score unchanged, but after the break the hosts came out in force. Espedal leveled within seconds and then Marcus Charles handed them the lead a few minutes later. The same player made it 3 after that and a Stuart McNeil goal confirmed the hosts dominance with 10 minutes left. Keith MacLeod managed to salvae some pride though, as he collected a pass from Gordon Bennett to slot home – but by then Dumbarton were already out of the cup.

Other Monthly News

The month began terribly for all Scottish fans following the WC qualifiers though as only days after a fine victory against toppers Portugal kept their hopes alive – an appalling performance followed to send them out of the reckoning. With Russia defeating Cyprus, a win was essential to stand a chance of 2nd. However a 1-0 loss against the Faeroe Islands shocked everyone. Janus Johannsen scoring a first half penalty, as the Scots failed to score, or even create many chances and young Mr. Sullivan suffered a mauling at the press conference afterwards, many a psychotic journalists asking him to explain that result in the face of what was needed.

Real Madrid reject midfielder Kevin Franck arrived on another short term contract. Aging left back Jon Bletherwick signed a permanent deal until 2015 after his rolling trial period was successful. Terry Kidd returned from his loan spell and then went on another trip to Alloa again. At George’s request the board decided the club should really think about investing in the Youth Development System. Applications were filled out, and soon coaches would be sent on specific courses designed to improve youngsters, and new Reach Out To The Community programmes were conceived.

At the end of the month, former Dundee striker, Brian King arrived on a free. The 1 time Scottish international realizing he wasn’t actually bigger than his previous employers and after failing to find a move elsewhere, returned with his tail between his legs to sign on with George. A young prospect from the academy, 17 year old David Russell signed professional terms, but he stipulated a 275,000 pound release fee was mandatory in the contract, and with his potential, George reckoned it was unlikely he’d be at the club too long.

[Brian of Nazareth]

October

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">

************************************************************************************************

Scottish Premier Division - Sunday 29th September 2013

************************************************************************************************

================================================================================================

2013/4 Table

================================================================================================

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Rangers 8 4 0 0 9 3 2 2 0 6 3 20

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Dundee Utd 9 4 0 0 9 3 1 1 3 5 10 16

3rd Dunfermline 8 2 2 0 7 5 2 1 1 6 2 15

4th Celtic 9 4 1 0 10 3 0 1 3 5 9 14

5th Dumbarton 9 4 0 0 9 2 0 2 3 6 10 14

6th Dundee 9 3 1 1 7 3 1 1 2 5 7 14

7th Kilmarnock 9 4 0 0 9 2 0 1 4 4 10 13

8th Motherwell 8 2 0 2 3 2 2 0 2 2 2 12

9th Inverness C. Thistle 9 3 0 1 7 3 1 0 4 3 9 12

10th Aberdeen 9 2 2 1 7 6 0 1 3 2 8 9

11th Hibs 8 0 3 2 5 9 1 0 2 4 5 6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

12th Raith Rovers 9 0 1 3 1 7 0 0 5 0 8 1

</pre>

[Brian of Nazareth]

League

The first game, as a result of International matches, didn’t arrive until the midweek of the 14th and Celtic, who had not enjoyed the best of starts, with manager Kevin Miller already under pressure from supporters to do well. Tonight’s match did nothing to help that as George delightedly secured his side’s first victory over an Old Firm side – and all the more impressively it was achieved with 10 men as team spirit shone through. Ronaldo scored in the 9th minute from a Mark Kerr cross to put the home side ahead, and the fans rejoiced. The Brazilian then was played in by several other team mates as the home side sought to extend their lead against a surprisingly disjointed Celtic side. His misses were a disappointment but the away side’s threat was proving to be quite limited, only a scattering of long-range efforts for James Evans to worry about.

In the second 45, the game became more intense though as a completely different side came out of the Celtic dressing room and after only 4 minutes it was former Aston Villa and Rangers striker David Collins who scored with a 30 yard drive to square it up and then the visitors turned up the heat on Evan’s goal. Keith MacLeod damaged his foot in a desperate challenge to fend off the Celt’s and on the hour mark, central defender Steven McDonald was sent off for push on Alberto Buzzo, and it seemed as though defeat was inevitable. However, a fantastic rally from the team, changed the direction of the game. Adopting an “ offense is the best form of defense “ approach, George saw a superb effort from his team. Macleod’s injury also meant the side had only 9 fit players on the park with the 3 subs already used. As the game progressed, a tough point looked to be the outcome until with 10 minutes remaining, Celtic defender Lawrie tripped Mark Kerr in the area and a penalty was awarded. Gordon Bennett was the man with the responsibility, and with 8000 fans cheering him on, and a tense bench, there was silence – to the point where you could hear a pin drop as the cliché goes. He placed the ball on the spot, retreated 8 paces, paused, ran up and smacking the ball with such venom it almost ripped the netting from the posts – but he didn’t care as it had gone in – and Dumbarton were 2-1 up. Celtic could not recover and Dumbarton held on to secure an excellent victory – one well worthy of the standing ovation at the end of the game.

Another home game against Motherwell was one George and the fans believed they had a strong chance of winning – especially to maintain their 100% home record. A few changes were made to the line up, including John Wright in at left back, but otherwise it was a side capable of repeating the previous week’s win. 10 minutes in though and another injury had afflicted the side – poor John Wright the victim – and he was clearly in agony as he left the field on a stretcher. Right back had to come in and cover. That fortunately though, did not prevent the hosts from maintaining a steady stream of positive flowing football, and Gordon Bennett sent in Gerard and Brian King on several occasions but neither man could finish the moves and the game remained goalless. At half time, George was not worried as the game was flowing nicely, and merely encouraged his men to Keep Up The Good Work in the second. More chances came, with Liam Miller and Paul Miller both coming forward more often as they sought a breakthrough – but it just wasn’t coming as Motherwell relied on their goaltender Sean Allaway to keep them alive in the game. Akim Shaker was not enjoying a good game, off the pace and stifled as soon as he found any sort of room. Sadly though, Dumbarton could not capitalize and the match ended in a disappointing 0-0 draw.

The final match of October saw Dumbarton travel to Raith Rovers – a side who had found it really tough going in the SPL so far, with just the 2 points and 3 goals before the game. Bearing that in mind, George rested some regulars to give fringe players a chance. It was another case of re-unions too as starting in the Raith line up was former defender Marius Stensland. The match began in George’s favour though as Dumbarton sought their first success on the road this campaign, and Gerard scored his 3rd goal for the club after 12 minutes after latching onto a ball from Jamie Carragher to deflate the oppositions somewhat. Still, Raith came back hard and were perhaps unlucky not to be awarded a penalty 10 minutes before half time after Alejandro Bueno acted a little violently but they kept going after that. In the second, a renewed call from George saw his side eventually put the tie beyond reach, as a lethargic effort stepped up a notch when Raith threatened to get back on level terms, and when Gerard lost the ball in the area, Bueno was on hand to toe home, with less than 20 minutes remaining. A frenetic finish still followed though as the hosts grabbed a goal back 5 minutes later through Kevin Kane, but Dumbarton held on as a first win away from home was secured – a fine end to the month.

Other Monthly News

Gerard signed a more secure deal, as his rolling deal concerned a few fans, whilst Kenny Deuchar made a welcome return to the club – this time in a coaching capacity – the ex-forward having retired and earned his badges jumped at the chance to return to Cliftonhill.

Scotland played their final qualifier in Latvia, but their chances were already extinguished, so there was only pride left. Fortunately Kiegan Parker and Willie Howie salvaged it with 2 second half goals, but question marks were still raised over Neil Sullivan’s suitability for the job.

Terry Kidd returned from another loan spell this time with a bit of vitriolic abuse hurled at George for good measure. The reasoning somewhat hidden underneath all the cursing.

[Brian of Nazareth]

November

League

5th placed Dunfermline came to visit Dumbarton on the 3rd – with a packed 8,000 fans inside the stadium to will on George’s side to victory. The visitors began brighter, with Aaron Cable and Andy Mills both conjuring up seemingly impossible-to-miss opportunities but managing to do so with spectacular success. The let off didn’t incite a response from Dumbarton though as further pressure nearly let to an actual goal but this time James Evans was equal to the task. A break away did see Dumbarton put the ball in the back of the net, but a breakdown in communication saw James Hughes run half a mile offside in the process – that was 5 minutes before half time – and on the stroke of it the visitors did grab a goal – Andy Mills capitalizing on a lack of focus from Matteo Ferrari to hand himself a 1-v-1 with Evans. A deft chip meant George would be exercising his vocal chords with some degree of passion in the dressing room.

Whatever was said in there certainly did prompt an impressive response – and 5 minutes after, Gordon Bennett hustled down Roberto Baronio in the Dunfermline half, forced a mistake, found Gerard in room and the Spanish midfielder cleverly played in Keith MacLeod to score – and the crowd were revitalized. In 2 minutes they were throwing up the Mexican wave as Dumbarton took the lead. James McFadden nodded back a weak Langfield goal kick and James Hughes gave chase. The forward then, unable to shoot himself, picked out one who could and Gerard smashed home a left foot drive. Dunfermline replied as best they could with Jason Burton and Frederic Laurent weaving in and out of the Dumbarton defence cleverly, but it all proved irrelevant with no end product. The hosts were definitely clinging on to the latter stages of the game, only one further effort from Gordon Bennett sailing wide, but hang on they did and another excellent 3 points had been won.

Dundee United away was the next match and at Tannerdice, George made a few more alterations to the line up before hoping to maintain the winning run. After surviving 2 penalty appeals inside 10 minutes, it was Dumbarton who took the lead after 20. Ronaldo superbly held up play well on a counter, when boxed in by 3 defenders, before sublimely flicking the ball over their heads into the path of the onrushing Gordon Bennett who scored. It was a lead that lasted 74 seconds though as the hosts scored with their first response as youngster Dennis Overgaard beat Mark Kerr for pace before firing the ball into the roof of the net. Those 2 goals then prompted an enjoyable encounter for the neutral, though both managers would have been biting their nails. Before the break Dumbarton took the lead – through Gordon Bennett [/n] benefiting from Alejandro Bueno’s fine run. In the second 45 it was a more vibrant home side though that dominated the opening 20 minutes – they swarmed all over their opponents goal and it was of no real surprise to see them first tie up the match through Overgaard, and then take the lead themselves through Malcolm Christie. George then believed attacking was the only way to go, and as part of his 3 pronged subbing ritual, replaced Alejandro Bueno with Kevin Franck to try and ignite some more resplendent front play. It worked fairly soon fortunately as Gerard knocked a ball out wide to Liam Miller who, in space down the left, was able to pinpoint his cross to perfection – landing neatly for Gordon Bennett to complete a well deserved hat-trick and the match ball. Thereafter it really appeared to be a scenario of next goal wins – but as to who it went to – no-one could predict – which probably meant the draw was a fair result though Dundee United did have one further penalty appeal turned down by the referee – a heart stopping moment for George.

That point kept Dumbarton in 5th, amongst a chasing pack of around 6 clubs only 2 –4 points behind toppers Rangers- though Dumbarton did have a game in hand. Their next fixture was home against Hibernian and for this one George decided to put out a more Scottish side for a change, dropping the likes of Ronaldo, Gerard, Bueno, Ferrari and Carragher . It proved to be a pleasant surprise therefore to see a side tat had nie Scotsmen in the starting eleven dominate the match. The cutting edge of Gerard or natural talent of Ronaldo were missing but generally the plays worked well – it was failing to score that continued to be a problem. After a first half that had seen Liam Miller, Brian Sinclair and Brian King all go close it remained goalless and there was a sense amongst the fans that this could prove to be a fruitless afternoon. That theory did not diminish in the second half either as chances came and went, Jamie Hughes and Liam Miller the culprits again, but after the introduction of Gordon Bennett and Steven MacDonald , fortunes changed. With 3 minutes left on the clock Mark Kerr finally put the ball in the back of the net to the delight of thousands as he slotted home a rebound to his own shot, and 3 points kept them up near the top and it also proved to George that he could do it without the big timers, though a couple more signings to bolster the ranks wouldn’t go amiss.

Inverness, in 2nd Spot were hosting Dumbarton and George decided to leave the team unchanged as much as possible to see how they’d cope. The first half started off well enough, with possession being retained well, neat passing and attempted counters where necessary but when it came to the final third it all went wrong. Liam Miller and Gordon Bennett both missed successive opportunities, whilst Alan Wilkinson fared no better with a long range drive that went out for a throw in. Unsurprisingly, the hosts came back stronger and Neil Hughes gave them the lead shortly before half time, a break down in communication between Willie Stewart and Steven MacDonald allowing Hughes in. The second saw a similar tale, where Dumbarton’s attempts to get back into the game started well, with solid defending and control of the ball up the field, but still they couldn’t even test the goalkeeper and George knew it would not be his day. When Neil Hughes added a second on 62 minutes, the game was over even with half an hour remaining such was the inadequacy of Dumbarton’s front line and defeat beckoned.

[Brian of Nazareth]

In midweek Dundee visited as George hoped to get back to winning ways, and a side only changed by necessity for lack of fitness started very brightly and Liam Miller was on fire threading intricate balls up to the strikers, winning tackles in the midfield and even shooting himself – though Glynn Thompson denied him. Keith MacLeod and Paul Miller both went close to scoring as well but Thompson denied them too – and Dumbarton were all over their visitors – but much like in the previous game – finishing was looking like it would prove costly – and just before half time Dundee very nearly scored, Marcus Charles clipping the crossbar – as George tore his hair out. After the break fortunes didn’t increase much and it was only the ineptitude of Dundee that saw another defeat arrive as a very disappointing 0-0 draw resulted.

There was one more game in the month and that was a trip to Kilmarnock who were struggling in 9th place, but with Dumbarton’s form it was a tough one to call. The half started well for the away side as both Matteo Ferrari and Brian King went close but yet AGAIN failure to score was capitalized upon by the hosts as Graeme Oliver scored as the hosts took advantage. A second from Scott Miller put the hosts initially into a commanding position before half time until Brian King grabbed his first for the club, connecting with Stephen Monnaghan’s low cross. That gave some hope for the second half but when you can’t hit a cows arse with a banjo – you’re pretty much screwed and a killer goal arrived from Scott Miller. Craig Graham bundled a goalmouth scramble in late on but the result was decided and the gap to the top increased once more.

Other Monthly News

Matteo Ferrari was the subject of an 80,000 pound bid from Italian side Cremonese at the very beginning and George was left a little perplexed. He was a solid performer indeed, but at 45 years old, George knew he had to end his relaxed view on foreigners sooner or later, or his faithful patriots would lose interest rapidly, so George demanded 100,000 – it was duly offered – and George accepted the bid on the soon to be 34 year old defender. 2 days later it was agreed – and when January arrived, Matteo was off back to his homeland.

Brian Sinclair arrived on loan in defense, the Scot returning to Dumbarton – and would lend support once Matteo eventually buggered off. James McFadden’s appearance against Dunfermline broke a club record – as he registered his 177th for the club – beating Jose Cano’s previous record. Terry Kidd went on another monthly trip – this time to Cowdenbeath.

James McFadden suffered a calf strain that would sideline the midfielder for 2 months, whilst George had to contend with another bid for one of his players – this time for 29 year old defender Craig Graham / Aberdeen were offering near enough 100,000 pounds but George wasn’t particularly endowed with defensemen, so the bar was raised to 400,000 as a delaying tactic allowing him further time to consider the bid but it mattered not as Aberdeen withdrew their interest initially. When they returned with a 400,000 pound bid, George negotiated up to 1.2 million pounds – a sum that certainly did scare off the Dons. Of a minor note, it was sad to see Gers skipper Barry Ferguson finally leave his club of 18 years after 612 appearances – he made a move down South to Southampton.

[Brian of Nazareth]

December

League

Hosting Aberdeen on the 7th, George was really hoping his side could return to winning ways. A few more changes in defense and up front were made but when Mark Kerr and Stephen Clemence began firing shots wide of the goal in the opening minutes, the worst came to mind that more points would be thrown away. Fortunately though, Aberdeen’s potency was weak enough that Dumbarton were able to capitalize – though it took late into the second half for the victory to arrive. First off, Gordon Bennett slid in to connect with Brian King’s hopeful through ball before half time to hand the hosts an important lead. It was one that was defended only up until the 52nd minute when a counter attack saw Fredrik Lagemyr score for the Dons against the run of play and dismay returned to George. A further onslaught followed from Dumbarton, and this time the goals deservedly came to seal the victory. The first, a fantastic solo run from Liam Miller that deflated the visitors and then a second for Gordon Bennett who followed up on a Miller rebound and it was 4th place for George, 19 games through the season.

In midweek that game in hand arrived, and it was a home clash against Rangers and definitely an important one in terms of maintaining a challenge at the top of the table. A tough opening spell ensued though with Samir Abdullah and Kevin Hardie testing the metal of Craig Graham and Jon Beswetherick especially with their pace and trickery, including a few Cruyff twists, and even a bizarre Piborsky drag back effort, but fortunately it all came to nothing. As the home side settled, a 2 minute spell in the first half changed the game quite impressively in Dumbarton’s favour. On 29 minutes James Hughes hit a fierce shot from 30 yards, and as it was sailing into the midrift of Steve Crousden, Ian Kendall deflected the ball past the hapless keeper to hand Dumbarton the lead. Capitalizing on that high, Dumbarton made it 2-0 moments later as Brian King squirmed through to shoot left footed into the corner of the net and the fans were really at their most strident. It was a lead that was well protected until half time, the visitors barely getting a look in, and George felt a warm bolt shoot through him walking into the dressing room 2-0 up against the blue half of the famous Old Firm. A record number of fans, 8.700, were really excited by the prospects in the second half, as a victory would push Dumbarton into the giddy heights of 3rd, leapfrogging over Celtic. 10 minutes in and nerves were jangling as Jamie Carragher took down Kevin Hardie with a mighty chop and was fortunate to stay on the pitch. The penalty was dispatched and the game grew tense. The home fans were cheering their side on but the players were simply too worried about making a mistake that their attacking strength weakened considerably. Nevertheless Matteo Ferrari and Craig Graham were performing well enough – and indeed lasted until the final whistle to secure the points.

Of course, having defeated one half of Glasgow, repeating that 3 days later against the other would prove a testing task – especially as this was away. Many knackered players were dropped from the line up to rest a while, as George took a more cautious approach against Celtic – something that was reflected in the opening period of play – Celtic would take the ball forward and Dumbarton would close in to a point, but would not send men out of position to do so. It was a pleasant surprise therefore to see Dumbarton take the lead through Kevin Franck scoring his first goal for the club, after being played in by Gordon Bennett and the home fans were shocked. Scott Lawrie, the Celtic goalkeeper was then called iinto action again soon after to deny both Bennett and Brian King as the hosts were a little under pressure. As the game drifted slowly towards half time, George began to formulate a good first half type speech when an insane decision by the ref brought the Celts back on level terms – as Jon Beswetherick had somehow brought Nick Allen to his knees, despite being a good 2 yards away from the player – it was a perplexing decision, that only infuriated George further when Allen converted and the half time whistle blew. The second half proved to be a quieter affair though, the determination to right a wrong from Dumbarton was nullified by the lift Nick Allen’s penalty had given Celtic and chances were few and far between, with both managers easing off towards the end, settling for a point.

Fate had delivered George a cruel blow with the fixture list though as the following week it was back to Glasgow again – to face Rangers at Ibrox and George was unsure as to whether his side could maintain their hard work. They’d won one, drew one and now he feared they would lose one – and with Dumbarton’s away record one of the poorest in the league – there were long odds being offered on a Dumbarton victory. He also changed up the starters again, bringing in young John Wright and Paul Miller to start again. They started off enthusiastically as usual but it was plainly obvious who was going to win this tie from early on. Though Gerard and Paul Miller showed enterprise and drive, their chances were limited thanks to the stalwart defending of Rangers, and fashioning shooting opportunities were restricted to long range efforts from Gerard. Once Mel Cunningham put Rangers ahead, the forlorn response from Dumbarton told George everything he needed to know about his sides’ prospects that afternoon – they were worn down – and to be fair, the fact they were 4th in the league was a fine achievement in itself and he would not berate his side. Samir Abdullah grabbed a decisive second on the stroke of half time and a predictable second half was played out with little to write home about.

[Brian of Nazareth]

On Boxing Day, George and Dumbarton sought to rectify a poor away record that hadn’t yielded all too many points so far. A break in training and the naturally improved mood over Christmas helped boost morale ahead of the trip to Motherwell. James McFadden returned to the side after injury, and Colin Yeats also started in midfield for the first time since his loan spell from Derby was confirmed. Those two replaced tired legs and it certainly did show in the first half, as an explosive opening 20 minutes was thoroughly dominated by Dumbarton – and once Colin Yeats scored from a penalty in the 15th minute after Brian King was felled by Sean Allaway, the momentum carried Dumbarton through to half time easily in control, Brian King scoring one of his handful of chances too to double the lead, heading home Gerard’s centre. It seemed as though the game was sewn up and even George was guilty of a little complacency, as Motherwell steamed out the dressing room, with new signing Marian Pahars scoring within seconds to send nervous tinglings right through the Dumbarton players as the hosts threatened to square the game up. Eager not to lose control, George barked out a few defensive commands to see out the onslaught, and when that was achieved and when Gavin Wilkinson and Dennis Dindic became subdued at their lack of success, Dumbarton upped the tempo once more to re-assert themselves on the game for the closing moments – and it worked. A fantastic solo run from Alejandro Bueno allowed Gerard the time and space to fashion a scoring chance which he did not waste, wrapping up the 3 points – as George looked on delightedly as his side cemented 3rd spot in the league, only 6 points behind the top 2. It was becoming a remarkable season.

Before the New Year and the Winter Break there was a final home game and George endeavored to end it positively. Raith Rovers were the visitors and they were a side devoid of confidence and hope, still merely on 3 points, 19 behind Hibs, their fate doomed – and for a brief moment George felt sorry for them, knowing how desperate it can be when the future’s already sealed. However George used it as a chance to go all Scottish – with all the starting eleven born and bred in Scotland – with a few changes including a rare appearance in goal for Craig Gordon. It turned out to be a comfortable game as expected, though the opening minutes were exceptionally dull as neither side could string a move longer than 3 passes without a foul or throw in resulting. Once Brian King sent Dumbarton into the lead from a James McFadden corner there was only going to be one winner. Though no further goals arrived in the first half, it didn’t take long to seal the result in the second, Craig Graham quickest to react after Colin Yeats sent a free kick into a body of players around the penalty spot. George then had the comfort of sending on 3 Scottish substitutes – in Bennett, Hughes, and MacLeod in the second half, as his vision took a step closer to reality. Of course it could not count this season far from it, but next season he would do it, he knew he’d do it.

Other Monthly News

Terry Kidd returned from another months holiday in the lower leagues, this time with a bag of nice shiny souvenirs too, before he pottered off a few days later to East Stirling for another spell. Already holding the world record for separate 1 month loan spells he was looking to build a formidable peak for any player that wished to follow in his footsteps – this was now his ninth in succession. Alan Wilkinson broke down in training and will be out of action for 2 months.

Ronaldo, Colin Reilly, Colin Meldrum, and Jamie Carragher all announced their intent to retire at the end of the year to pursue other avenues in life, whilst Steven MacDonald signed a years extension to his contract.

Colin Yeats, a 24 year old Scot at Derby arrived on a 4 month loan towards the end of the month to cover for tiring legs. A brief warning from the accountants over at R&R Bridgerivers warned George that finances were waning, not drastically but that not enough income was being generated to allow transfer funds to be increased.

Craig Graham signed an extension to his contract, also elevating the minimum fee release clause substantially to George’s relief, as the defender’s fine performances were certainly attracting a few clubs. On bosmans the following year, John Miller of Rangers, Thomas McManus of Charlton, and Thomas Craig of Bristol Rovers would be joining the club.

[Brian of Nazareth]

January

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">

************************************************************************************************

Scottish Premier Division - Wednesday 8th January 2014

************************************************************************************************

================================================================================================

2013/4 Table

================================================================================================

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Rangers 24 9 0 3 25 16 6 3 3 15 11 48

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2nd Inverness C. Thistle 24 10 1 1 25 5 4 2 6 10 14 45

3rd Dumbarton 24 10 2 0 21 6 2 4 6 17 23 42

4th Dunfermline 24 8 4 0 20 8 3 2 7 12 18 39

5th Celtic 24 8 3 1 18 7 2 4 6 15 20 37

6th Dundee Utd 23 7 2 3 21 11 3 2 6 14 21 34

7th Motherwell 24 4 4 4 9 10 5 2 5 11 11 33

8th Dundee 23 4 4 3 11 9 3 6 3 11 12 31

9th Kilmarnock 24 8 0 4 21 14 1 3 8 11 24 30

10th Aberdeen 24 5 6 1 21 13 2 2 8 10 21 29

11th Hibs 24 4 4 4 15 16 2 3 7 9 15 25

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12th Raith Rovers 24 0 3 9 5 21 0 0 12 1 22 3

</pre>

League

A quiet month that had only seen the side train infrequently to relax from their hard first half of the season saw the first sign of action away to Dunfermline on the 29th and George was eager to see his side keep up the improved run. Some rumours even abounded amongst players that qualifying for Europe was a possibility but George wanted to keep that under wraps as much as possible lest disappointment followed. As for the match barring a few changes for injury – McFadden had broken down yet again, and a return in goal for James Evans the team was relatively unchanged. The game itself started very slowly – with neither side having seem action in almost a month the players were simply taking the time getting their match practice back in order, nothing was rushed and chances were at a premium – the first one not arriving until the 27th minute when Jason Burton curled an effort into the palms of Evans. Dumbarton’s didn’t arrive until 3 minutes before half time but this one happened to end on a high note – the ball bulging in the back of the net, after Brian King steered it home, with Colin Yeats having enjoyed a 30 yard run intowards the goal, avoiding pitiful attempts to challenge easily before sending the ball in. It was an excellent goal and in the second half the players continued their fine stifling work of Dunfermline as the game began to peter out. The hosts tried desperately to get back into it but fine work from Yeats, Stewart and Mark Kerr prevented them from doing so. Roberto Baronio had a free kick tipped wide but that was the closest they came to an equalizer, and though Dumbarton offered little in return save for a Paul Miller long range attempt, the match ended and another excellent victory had been secured.

Other Monthly News

2014 began with George the recipient of Decembers Manager of the Month Award, and it proved to be cause for double celebration as Gerard took home the gong for Player of the Month . It was not a good start for 35 year old Stephen Clemence . Already aware his contract would not be renewed in the summer, the midfielder suffered a horrible car accident which would leave him stranded in hospital for 2 months.

Matteo Ferrari departed for Cremonese for 100,000 pounds.

George hired private investigators midway through the month to investigate Karen Brady at Birmingham City. It was the second time in recent months the club had offered him the managers role after barely giving Alun Armstrong time enough to rectify the club’s problems. What’s more it seemed as though they expected their offer to be taken up – so George of course rejected, to the point where on a national radio interview he expressed his fervent desire to stay at Dumbarton for many years until he achieved his goal or died, whichever came first.

Meanwhile Terry Kidd returned unannounced to the club, though no one bothered telling him there was an interlude in the season for a few weeks, and for a while he was the only one at the training grounds. He wasn’t there long though extending his impressive range of loan spells ( for which he had gained recognition throughout most of the national press ) as he joined Stenhousemuir for the second time.

Raith Rovers belatedly picked up their first win of the season – defeating Dundee United by 1 goal to nil – Christian Andersson the hero in that game.

[Brian of Nazareth]

February

Scottish Cup

The Third Round being a little later than usual pitted George’s side against Rangers at Cliftonhill, and George sensed another early exit. His mind was in a quandary over this one – whether to go for this one and risk injures or tiredness in the league, or send out fringe players and effectively concede the tie anyway. In the end he decided to rest anyone who believed they weren’t really 100% healthy and hoped for the best. In the end a defeat followed though it seems few people were interested- only 3000 turned up on a very cold afternoon. A poor Dumbarton side never got into their rhythm and after a 4th yellow card had been picked up substitutions were made, and then Rangers took control – finally breaking through in the 64th minute via Matt Heath. Danny Martins then killed off the tie 10 minutes later and John Wright earned himself a ban with a yellow card that took him to 16 points.

League

11th placed Hibs were the hosts for George’s first match in February, and George eagerly wanted the league form to continue – to bolster his side’s chances of a top 4 finish at least. Referee Alan Vincent clearly had other ideas though. In a fast paced end to end game he first annoyed George by ruling out Willie Stewart’s goal, before booking Gerard and John Wright for no reason. 10 minutes later and George Cameron was fuming when the idiot dismissed James Evans for a supposed professional foul, when replays clearly show no contact was made but Stuart Kelly still scored to hand Hibs a 1 goal and 1 man advantage. In the second it got worse, Another ******** penalty call saw Dumbarton go another goal behind as Willie Stewart was booked for handball, when again replays prove it hit his knee instead. That killed off Dumbarton’s chances, and to add salt to the wound further yellow cards were awarded to Brian King , Gordon Bennett and Alejandro Bueno . Hibs incidentally received none. At the final whistle George had to be restrained from assaulting Mr. Vincent instead settling for picking up a disrepute charge after a very angry verbal tirade in the post match interview.

High flying Inverness were the next visitors to Cliftonhill and George was determined to channel his anger into earning another victory for the fans. It would be difficult as some players were suffering a little from over exertion against Hibs whilst James Evans was suspended, meaning a recall for Craig Gordon . With ICT owning a game in hand and both clubs on the same points tally, George knew this was definitely a must-not-lose game to keep in touch at the top. There seemed to be vague hints in the media at a surprise run for one of the 2 Champions league places but George merely wanted his side to play to their potential – whatever that may prove to be. The first quarter of the game proved to be tough battle, though it did allow Gordon to prove he was a competent back up saving well from Matthew Hughes and Reynald Hatton, though it also showed how much influence the foreign players still had on Dumbarton’s success as a spectactular 10 minute spell before half time had the home fans in raptures. Alejandro Bueno began it by opening the scoring arriving first to tip a low cross from Mark Kerr into the net, and then Gerard made it two after being put through by the roving Mark Kerr again, before Ronaldo shell shocked ICT with a 3rd on the stroke of half time, this time with Bueno the provider. That spell even stunned George for a moment, as suddenly he saw his side climbing to 2nd in the league, with only 11 games left. In the second half he withdrew his stars for a rest and brought on the Scots to see out tha game – which they duly did, only a James Hughes strike coming close to piling on more misery on Mick Edwards as Dumbarton’s escellent unbeaten home record continued.

Craig Graham picked up a league suspension after a yellow card against ICT, whilst Rangers and Celtic very nicely played out a 2-2 derby game that suited George well. They were 4 points behind the Gers, and 7 points above Celtic – though both Glasgow sides had still played a game less. The games were coming thick and fast and another midweek game arrived with Dundee United, in 6th place the visitors – and changes were necessary to cope. Craig Gordon kept his place, along with Michael Blake who hardly figured this season, whilst Paul Miller , Willie Stewart and John Wright all came back into the line up. What followed though proved a massive dispaointment compared with previous efforts. A shoddy display in the first half, where they were slaughtered by a much hungrier Dundee side, saw Dumbarton 2-0 at the break. Malcolm Christie scored a 3rd minute penalty after Craig Graham fouled the striker, before Matthew Heywood evaded several weak challenges to set up Ian Hume 20 minutes later. George tried to encourage a more patient approach initially and asked for tackles to step up a notch but it made little effect. Kevin MacDonald sent several long range efforts in a variety of directions, none of which including on the goal. The substitutions made little impact and of course they were all made moments before [/b] John Wright managed to get himself sent off, hindering Dumbarton substantially and then new signing Paul di Giacomo finished the game off with a penalty late to end a poor evening for Dumbarton – who had also just lost their first home match of the season.

The extra weeks break to allow for the Scottish Cup was perhaps welcome from George’s point of view – he could regroup his side and prepare them for the final few games of the season – and see where they could finish. The final game of February was another Wednesday night affair, and it involved a trip to Dundee who’d already won the accolade in the Daily Herald of “Most Boring Team 2014†as they lay in 8th place in the league. That said, in this game they certainly appeared the more dangerous. George had made a few changes based on the poor showing against Dundee United, but the replacement players fared only marginally better – this time they were able to defend well enough to keep a shut-out but going forward the play was abysmal. Alan Wilkinson and Keith MacLeod ran themselves into the ground but to little effect – and it was only smart play by Jon Beswetherick and Brian Sinclair that kept Dumbarton in with a chance, even if James Evans was notably busier than his counterpart. In the end a 0-0 draw resulted and George had to be pleased with that result – which kept them 3rd.

Other Monthly News

Terry Kidd returned from his break in Stenhousmuir – eager to help the reserves recapture their early season form. At the end of the month, English strikers Alan Wilkinson and Keith Simpson were both placed on the transfer list – though with their contracts expiring in the summer – George didn’t expect many takes

[Brian of Nazareth]

March

League

A home fixture with Kilmarnock arrived soon after the Dundee game and George was eager to get his side up and running again to avoid and pitiful end of season crumble. With their opponents in 11th ( but easily safe nonetheless ) it seemed to be an ideal game to play – and when Mark Kerr connected with a centre from James Hughes in the 5th minute confidence returned slowly to the side – though Killy did fight back as best they could. Kerr, Gordon Bennett and Gerard all subsequently tested Petter Westerberg but failed to beat him. In the second half the visitors responded with speed – desperate to confirm safety this year as both Johan Melander and Shane Bresciano could and should have beaten James Evans with efforts from inside the area. Fortunately though they missed, and as the half progressed it was the hosts who steadily took charge. Defenders appeared self-assured on the ball and the passing was precise. The introduction of new blood shortly past the hour mark helped to sustain this momentum, and after Ronaldo wasted a golden chance, Kevin Franck made no mistake with 10 minutes left on the clock aided by Stephen Monaghan to seal the 3 points, and take Dumbarton back up to second.

Table Update, 8 games remaining

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">

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Scottish Premier Division - Wednesday 5th March 2014

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================================================================================================

2013/4 Table

================================================================================================

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

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1st Rangers 30 11 1 3 32 18 8 4 3 21 13 62

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2nd Dumbarton 30 12 2 1 26 9 3 5 7 18 25 52

3rd Inverness C. Thistle 30 10 2 3 27 11 5 3 7 11 17 50

4th Celtic 30 10 4 1 22 9 3 5 7 18 23 48

5th Dundee Utd 30 8 2 5 22 13 4 5 6 21 25 43

6th Dunfermline 30 8 4 3 20 11 4 3 8 18 23 43

7th Motherwell 30 4 6 5 11 13 6 4 5 13 12 40

8th Hibs 30 7 4 4 19 16 4 3 8 12 17 40

9th Aberdeen 30 6 8 1 25 16 3 3 9 14 25 38

10th Dundee 30 5 7 3 17 12 3 6 6 11 16 37

11th Kilmarnock 30 9 1 5 25 17 1 3 11 11 30 34

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

12th R Raith Rovers 30 0 4 11 5 26 1 1 13 3 25 8

</pre>

[Brian of Nazareth]

After another break for the Scottish cup it was back into action away to 10th placed Aberdeen and more changes were made as George once again looked as afar as he could to the players likely to be around the following season. Unfortunately the first half did not prove to be a pretty display as awful passing, allowed the hosts to dominate the possession and George was exasperated. Any time a player like Kevin MacDonald or Keith MacLeod gained the ball – it was given away within seconds and a determined Aberdeen side set out to punish such errors. They were aided by scoring an early goal too as Klaas-Jan Huntelaar waltzed through a gaping hole in the back line to make it 1-0. With confidence overbrimming it would have confused any neutral as to which side were second and which was 10th as Aberdeen were far the superior side, emphasized by Alan Davison’s easy as you like second goal before half time.

In the dressing room George went bananas on his players with teacups flying, boot studs grazing eyebrows, and ears receding quite far into their respective skulls, eyes staring at the uninviting grey floor. A TV fly on the wall would have depicted a 5 minute long beep followed by a brief pause, before another long beep – George was no happy man. It was with relief therefore that the players suddenly remembered they were playing football and not casually strolling through a park, and in the second picked up their game considerably – helped by the introduction of James Hughes and Gerard . 10 minutes in and Tony Phillips the Aberdeen goaltender was finally forced to move an inch to collect Keith MacLeod’s hilariously poor overhead attempt that saw the midfielder kick himself in the face hard enough to require a substitution. Capitalizing on an Aberdeen side trying very hard to stop laughing, further efforts came from Hughes and Gerard before the Spaniard finally found his mark, bursting through a static home defense to pull a goal back with 20 minutes left. Stunned into action both sides now eagerly contested the ball as chances now flew in at either end. It was Dumbarton who had the extra bit of momentum though and a late equalizer arrived in the 86th minute as Jamie Carragher hopped down the right wing before zipping in a fluke of a cross that missed everyone, hit Willie Stewart on the lower back region and rebounded into the net off the right knee of the confused Brian King still wondering where the ball was. It was 2-2 and George was pleased – a veritable game of two halves this though he nearly exploded in stoppage time when the linesman threatened to award a penalty to Aberdeen but the ref didn’t notice him and blew the final whistle instead.

There were two further home games to come before the league split and one of them arrived at the end of March with 8th placed Motherwell coming to visit. George, ever concerned that Gerard played too prominent a role at times, dropped the Spaniard, brining back Kevin MacDOnald and James McFadden into the midfield as he sought to consolidate his side’s place at the top. The first half proved to be a quiet affair for the most part – with Colin Yeats wasting two excellent chances to score after being set free by Kevin Franck , with Sean Allaway denying the midfielder on both occasions. Akim Shaker had 2 opportunities himself but he missed the goalmouth entirely with two skewed efforts. As the game seemed to drift towards a goalless half, the away team lucked out. Shaker had the ball at his feet in the area, shadowed by Steven Monaghan when the referee saw something no-one else did and awarded a penalty. Dennis Dindic scored and Motherwell had the advantage. George tried to shake his side up at the break but it was clear the steam was running out for this side, and the season couldn’t end soon enough from George’s point of view. James McFadden went close with a 30 yard free kick but Allaway saved comfortably as Dumbarton lacked any real invention in their attack. Time ticked away, and with the visitors defending deep another 3 points were lost and George was only thankful ICT and Celtic hadn’t capitalized.

Other Monthly News

Brian Sinclair had his loan spell extended until the end of the season, whilst Raith Rovers’ defeat to Kilmarnock relegated the outfit on the 5th of March, the team having only accumulated 9 points. Keith Simpson agreed a summer move to Colchester as George began the eradicating of non-scots from his side, whilst Gordon Grant from Darlington agreed to join Dumbarton in the summer.

Ronaldo fell off his ladder doing a spot of gardening and the seriousness of the injury effectively curtailed his career at Dumbarton as it kept him out until the middle of May, whilst James McFadden signed a 1 year extension to his contract, with eyes set on making 200 appearances for the club. A Rangers victory on the last day of March put the Gers within 1 or 2 games of clinching the title – it could unfortunately be realized in April when they visit Dumbarton.

[Brian of Nazareth]

May

League

Struggling to motivate his side George prayed Rangers would be content to win the league at their own place some other time, but in his head he knew it was a forlorn hope. With several of the players likely to depart in the summer, the team were under pressure to find some form of chemistry. George, to his dismay found himself realizing he needed to play the big players to finish strongly this year, and they did indeed return to the line up as Dumbarton looked to contain a rampant Rangers side. The early moments were a little sticky, the Gers picking up yellow cards for rough challenges but then football took over and opportunities arose. Gerard went first and grazed the wrong side of the left hand post, before Mel Cunningham forced an acrobatic reflex from James Evans . On the next Rangers attack Dumbarton suffered another stroke of ill luck as Evans slightly clipped Kevin Hardie’s heels and the frontman, dived in such stunning fashion you could easily mistake him for a trapeze artist. The striker scored, and boos resonated when Mr. Hardie touched the ball thereafter. To Dumbarton’s credit they responded well and managed to tie the game before half time as Gordon Bennett thumped a Liam Miller cross into the roof of the net. Hoping that would act as a booster for the second half, George was dismayed to see his side concede so early after the restart. Mel Cunningham lost his marker and crossed for Rui Carlos to score from. Rangers then tried to re-inforce that lead with a strong attack after that, but after 20 minutes of trying they relaxed, either confident of securing the win or knowing that the title was effectively won anyway and there was no need to risk injury at this stage. Whatever the reason it did allow Dumbarton back into the game though, and with the added legs on to help, a late equalizer did arrive. Alejandro Bueno released Liam Miller in his own half but the midfielder ran in a bee line towards his target, and just when everyone expected him to check back in to avoid a challenge he curled a magnificent right footer into the top left corner, looping the ball over Steve Crousden to earn a share of the spoils for the club.

The Split

The first game of the split was, annoyingly enough – another home game with Rangers – and George knew that his opponents would be out to secure the title this time round. A similar side was kept though to try and maintain some consistency. As the game began many of the fans were left anxiously considering whether Dumbarton could hold on for another 89,88,87,86 minutes for a draw as Rangers flew at them in the first quarter. Rui Carlos testing Evans initially before Samir Abdullah went close from the corner that followed. Abdullah then took on the defense himself, found space 15 yards out but chipped his shot high over both keeper and crossbar. With those misses letting the home team off Dumbarton plucked up the courage to try the old attacking game themselves after half an hour and Gordon Bennett played in Gerard on the angle, but his volley whistled wide. 2 minutes before the half time, the match swung in George’s favour. Firstly a defense splitting pass from James McFadden found James Hughes in plenty of space for the forward to score from, and then Rangers’ dependable defender Darren French said one too many words to the referee Harold Bigthorn after the booking of Rui Costa and he was sent back for an early shower. That subdued Rangers a little and spurred Dumbarton on in the second half as Mark Kerr came out in a psychotic mood – refusing to give up the ball and furiously slamming the ball goalwards, almost breaking Steve Crousden’s fingers in the process on two separate occasions. Gerard then almost doubled the lead 15 minutes later with a lob, but Crousden managed to retrieve it in the nick of time. Rangers did fight back and re-group eventually but it was too little to late. Kevin Hardie headed wide, and then shot over late on but a superb victory had been achieved by George as it also maintained their slender 1 point lead over Celtic in 3rd place.

A trip to 5th placed ICT followed, a side who had drifted off the pace in recent weeks, 6 points behind Dumbarton before today’s game but still in with a realistic shout of a top 4 finish s George ordered his players to not become complacent. No changes were made to the line up and the consistency proved to be successful, although it took time for Dumbarton to play well. ICT began the better team and both Neil Hughes and William Bennett were provided with ample chance to put them ahead but they didn’t take either of them. At the other end Mick Edwards was alert enough to prevent James Hughes from putting the more confident side ahead, but as the half developed the tide slowly turned – and after a skirmish between Gordon Bennett and Tommy Healy that saw both men carded, Dumbarton stepped up a gear and took the lead 5 minutes later through Gerard . The clever midfielder welcoming the intelligent pass from Mark Kerr to hand Dumbarton the advantage. Moments before the half time whistle went and the momentum tipped even further in the away side’s favour as ICT left back Chris Brown was dismissed for violent conduct on James Hughes and now there was a man advantage. Eager to jump at this chance Dumbarton raced out of the blocks in the second period, putting pressure on a shaky home defense, and as the hour mark approached a decisive second goal arrived. volleyed back a poor clearance from Edwards and the ball deflected wickedly off his namesake William Bennett into the net. George brought on players like John Wright and Keith MacLeod after that to ease the pressure on the current players, and the game died down. ICT were too weak to mount a reply immediately and Dumbarton settled for slowing the pace down, controlling the ball smoothly, passing back forth across the back of the defense for a few minutes. On one attack though a 3rd goal did arrive, to the delight of George. Tommy Healy handled 30 yards out and James Hughes fired a wondrous free kick into the right side of Mick Edwards and the game was over – even if the home side managed a consolation through Matthew Hughes in the final moments as Rangers technically had to keep their champagne on ice a little longer as there was still a 9 point gap with 3 games remaining.

6th placed Dundee United hosted Dumbarton the following week, and George decided to make further changes, despite knowing he was risking allowing Celtic to overtake him. A title challenge was merely theoretical – as it had been fro several weeks now, and he also believed the likes of Craig Gordon deserved to play a little more. Even so a fired up Dumbarton began the better side, as several chances were squandered inside the first 15 minutes. Colin Yeats blazing over from 6 yards after good work from Stephen Monaghan , before Liam Miller went on another dazzling run before firing his shot powerfully goal bound, but Neil Johnson tipped it round the post for a corner. Willie Stewart floated one in, but Craig Graham headed poorly over. Ronaldo , back from his injury, was also off the pace, and would not last long in this game, being replaced by Gordon Bennett half way through the half. The hosts did re-collect themselves sadly, and after weathering the storm, scored through Ian Hume 10 minutes before the break, certainly against the run of play in George’s eyes but he knew he could only blame himself. A short spell after half time saw Dundee in control, spurred on by their lead as Matthew Heywood and Ian Hume both tested the Gordon again with no success. Their failure to add to the lead, renewed hope in Dumbarton who attacked fervently again, though Brian King was firing spectacularly wide, and Colin Yeats was denied again by Johnson. The midfielder did breakthrough eventually however, as Craig Graham picked out Willie Stewart just outside the centre circle, and the midfielder swiftly moved the ball out to Kevin Franck . The Belgian didn’t even need to look up to find Yeats who spun on the spot to make it 1-1. 5 minutes later and James McFadden came off the bench for the final 20 minutes or so and made an immediate impression. McFadden fired a hopeful ball from 40 yards out, but it was blocked by defenders – the loose ball was picked up by Hughes who did not miss with a bullet strike to the immense pleasure of George and his staff. With Celtic defeating Rangers this yet again proved to be a key game in staying ahead of the chasing pack – especially with Dumbarton’s next home game being against Celtic. The second goal sparked intense drudgery on the pitch with no player on either side able to do anything with the ball, and it was only Liam Miller’s injury late on that kept journalists from packing up and going home early as Dumbarton held on.

Other Monthly News

Steven Monaghan boosted the club by signing a longer-term deal to the club, the young right back very much part of George’s plans for the future. Colin Yeats’ loan was extended for a further month to cover the final matches of the SPL – with a view to a permanent move in the summer – finances permitting.

Brian King captained a Scotland B match against Turkey, but neither he nor Mark Kerr could conjure up a victory, losing 1-0 instead. Coach Kenny Deuchar snitched on Keith Simpson’s hang over in training, but George didn’t care – the forward was heading out in the summer anyway and would not be taking part in any more matches this season.

[Brian of Nazareth]

May

League

The 3rd saw a crunch match with Celtic at Cliftonhill arrive. Dumbarton were 3 points ahead but Celtic’s goal difference was 1 better so a Celtic win would put them in command going into the final round of matches whilst a Dumbarton one would incredibly seal 2nd place in the league and qualification for Europe – though as Celtic had already won the League Cup this season, George thought his team may well have already done enough – he just didn’t know yet. After an excellent previous month George was praying the momentum would carry his side through. It had been an excellent season already anyway – with 3rd place already secure, but it could be even better. George still made changes – bringing back James Evans to the line up, but he also kept a Scottish midfield too – dropping Franck and Gerard to the surprise of a few reporters in light of the strength of his opponents – but the almost 8,500 strong crowd still cheered every starter announced over the Tannoy. A bright opening from both teams that saw David Collins and Gordon Bennett exchange efforts, saw an early goal – to the home side as Willie Stewart had shot palmed fortunately into the path of Mark Kerr and the fans were in full voice – delighted and already throwing up Mexican Waves and congas. Of course Celtic were not going to accept that easily and Goran Bogdanevic headed over twice in two minutes as they tried to respond immediately. Nick Allen then broke free of Steven MacDonald but found the seating behind the goal instead as Dumbarton held on. Mark Kerr did have another chance to extend the lead, but his shot was tipped away by Sean Dunn as Celtic defended strongly. This was a pattern that kept going right up until half time, with neither team looking the better side, the fans still very tense. 5 minutes into the second and the contest really held the fans attention as Celtic tied it up through John Whitehead, scoring from Antonis Stravrakakis’ cross. With the match at an end to end pace it was difficult to see who would come out on top in this one. Dumbarton enjoyed a long 15 minute spell of possession but were unable to make it count as James Hughes and Colin Yeats missed the target. As things stood, Dumbarton still held the better position in the table, 3 points ahead, so it would have been logical to assume Celtic would be the more desperate – however, it was intense pressure from Dumbarton that saw the hosts eventually retake the lead in the 79th minute – a goal that incited mass celebrations amongst the fans. Mark Kerr and Willie Stewart exchanged passes before Willie blasted a ball towards the net – Dunn parried, but another fortunate rebound enabled James Hughes to slide it in – and cue pandemonium. This was easily George’s most successful season and at 45 years, after 14 years of management George felt he’d learned a thing or two. The goal did spark the Celts into life but a man of the match display from centre back Craig Graham preserved the 3 points.

With 2nd secured, George sent out an all Scottish squad to face Dunfermline – a taster of things to come for the fans and they performed reasonably well. Craig Gordon lined up in goal, with John Wright at left back, Monaghan at right back, with MacDonald and Graham in the middle. Willie Stewart was the holding man in midfield, supporting Keith MacLeod , James McFadden, and Kevin MacDonald in midfield with Paul Miller and James Hughes as the starting strikers. Even all the subs were Scottish too ( Evans, Sinclair, Kerr, Reilly and King ) Dunfermline were still playing to secure 4th spot, and to send their fans home happy so perhaps showed more eagerness early on, scoring through Andy Mills, but after that it was very even with Hughes and Stewart both not far off from leveling. After the break it was all Dumbarton for 20 minutes as a tieing goal seemed inevitable, but Brian King , Brian Sinlair and Kevin MacDonald were all denied by an excellent goalkeeping display from James Langfield. As the game wore on, both players eased off. Dumbarton still looked to level it up, but the end of a long successful season was taking it’s toll and no player wanted to pick up any unnecessary injuries and the hosts hung on to win.

Other Monthly News

On the pitch before the Celtic game, George was awarded with the Manager of the Month Award for April in recognition of the excellent 10 points form 12 games gained, especially with 2 games against Rangers in that spell.

James Hughes signed on to an extra 4 years with the club, to the delight of George, whilst Rangers sealed the title in the penultimate fixture drawing at home with Dunfermline. George had also, the SFA confirmed, earned European football with Dumbarton next season – and all he had to do was secure his B Badge to become a UEFA licensed coach. The 2nd placed finish also earned Dumbarton 550,000 pounds.

The end of the month also signaled the end of an era for many players at the club as George began his routine sweep of all non-scots at the club. On the way out were:

Ronaldo, Gerard, Michael Blake, Jamie Carragher, Wayne Chapman, Alejandro Bueno, Stephen Clemence, Alan Wilkinson Keith Simpson, Kevin Franck, and of particular distress to George: Liam Miller – the midfielder in fact Irish – and try as he might – he could find no Scottish ancestry down that line.

[Brian of Nazareth]

Dumbarton Stats

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">

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Dumbarton - Saturday 10th May 2014

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================================================================================================

Squad

================================================================================================

No Name Position(s) Nat Born Age Caps Gls Wages Expires Value

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8 Bennett, Gordon F C SCO 19.3.89 25 6 1 £1K 26.6.15 £400K

27 Beswetherick, Jon D L ENG 15.1.78 36 - - £2K 7.8.15 £16K

2 Blake, Michael D RC ENG 31.12.86 27 - - £1.7K 10.6.14 £5K

22 Bueno, Alejandro DM C ESP 19.9.87 26 - - £1.5K 28.6.16 £160K

13 Carragher, Jamie D/DM RC ENG 28.1.78 36 1 - £1.8K 11.6.15 £16K

3 Chapman, Wayne D L ENG 25.11.83 30 - - £2.1K 28.6.16 £75K

20 Clemence, Stephen M C ENG 31.3.78 36 - - £1.7K 10.6.14 £1K

1 Evans, James GK SCO 25.11.83 30 - - £1.3K 17.6.16 £110K

28 Franck, Kevin AM C BEL 27.8.84 29 8 - £2.4K 4.6.14 £12K

24 Gerard AM C ESP 12.3.79 35 88 12 £2.3K 28.6.16 £500K

12 Gordon, Craig GK SCO 15.9.83 30 - - £1.4K 10.6.15 £55K

5 Graham, Craig D C SCO 17.1.84 30 - - £2.4K 27.6.16 £600K

9 Hughes, James S C SCO 25.12.89 24 - - £2.9K 2.6.19 £180K

6 Kerr, Mark M C SCO 2.3.82 32 - - £1.9K 24.6.16 £180K

- Kidd, Terry D/DM C SCO 1.9.83 30 - - £975 28.6.14 Free

29 King, Brian S C SCO 4.1.84 30 1 - £2.5K 19.8.15 £450K

14 MacDonald, Steven D C SCO 26.7.82 31 - - £2.1K 9.6.15 £35K

7 MacLeod, Keith M C SCO 8.7.88 25 - - £1.7K 7.6.16 £85K

15 McDonald, Kevin AM/F R SCO 21.4.83 31 - - £950 28.6.14 £4K

16 McFadden, James M C SCO 13.8.83 30 - - £2.5K 10.6.15 £40K

32 Meldrum, Colin GK SCO 26.11.75 38 6 - £1.4K 1.5.15 £12K

19 Miller, Liam M C IRL 13.2.81 33 - - £1.8K 20.6.16 £55K

11 Miller, Paul F RLC SCO 29.7.89 24 - - £2.2K 22.6.17 £160K

23 Monaghan, Steven D/DM R SCO 11.11.91 22 - - £2.6K 28.6.17 £110K

- Moore, Mark S C SCO 4.3.91 23 - - £160 6.6.14 £4K

17 Reilly, Colin M C SCO 11.2.80 34 - - £550 15.6.15 £30K

26 Ronaldo F C BRA 22.9.76 37 187 102 £2.6K 15.6.14 £1K

- Russell, David S C SCO 12.9.96 17 - - £575 19.6.16 £45K

- Scott, Kevin D/DM C SCO 1.2.85 29 - - £825 16.6.15 £22K

10 Simpson, Keith S C ENG 27.3.85 29 - - £1.7K 8.6.14 £8K

4 Sinclair, Brian D C SCO 17.7.88 25 - - £0 28.5.14 £450K

18 Stewart, Willie DM C SCO 10.11.87 26 - - £2K 17.6.16 £140K

21 Wilkinson, Alan S C ENG 29.10.83 30 24 13 £2.3K 28.5.14 £30K

25 Wright, John D L SCO 10.5.90 23 - - £1.7K 18.6.15 £30K

30 Yeats, Colin M C SCO 28.8.89 24 - - £0 19.5.14 £525K

================================================================================================

2013/4 Senior Club Stats

================================================================================================

No Name Apps Gls Con Pens Asts Yel Red MoM Av R

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

8 Bennett, Gordon 21 (9) 8 0 1 (1) 2 4 0 3 7.20

27 Beswetherick, Jon 11 (1) 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 6.83

2 Blake, Michael 3 (5) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6.50

22 Bueno, Alejandro 20 (5) 3 0 0 4 2 0 1 7.52

13 Carragher, Jamie 18 (4) 0 0 0 2 4 0 0 6.86

3 Chapman, Wayne 21 (4) 0 0 0 0 4 0 1 7.08

20 Clemence, Stephen 6 (1) 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 6.86

1 Evans, James 34 0 38 0 0 0 1 1 7.06

28 Franck, Kevin 6 (8) 2 0 0 1 0 0 1 7.36

24 Gerard 23 (3) 8 0 0 7 2 0 3 7.81

12 Gordon, Craig 7 (2) 0 13 0 0 0 0 0 7.11

5 Graham, Craig 33 (1) 2 0 0 0 8 0 4 7.15

9 Hughes, James 13 (15) 6 0 0 3 0 0 1 6.96

6 Kerr, Mark 27 (1) 7 0 0 6 0 0 3 7.57

- Kidd, Terry 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ----

29 King, Brian 17 (6) 6 0 0 3 1 0 0 7.09

14 MacDonald, Steven 20 (2) 1 0 0 0 3 1 0 6.32

7 MacLeod, Keith 14 (5) 2 0 0 0 3 0 0 6.84

15 McDonald, Kevin 6 (3) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6.78

16 McFadden, James 13 (3) 0 0 0 4 2 0 0 7.00

32 Meldrum, Colin 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ----

19 Miller, Liam 16 (8) 2 0 0 5 1 0 3 7.58

11 Miller, Paul 11 (7) 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 7.00

23 Monaghan, Steven 24 (3) 0 0 0 3 4 0 0 6.85

- Moore, Mark 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ----

17 Reilly, Colin 3 (1) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6.75

26 Ronaldo 8 (3) 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 7.00

- Russell, David - - - - - - - - ----

- Scott, Kevin 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ----

10 Simpson, Keith 1 (6) 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 6.86

4 Sinclair, Brian 4 (1) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6.20

18 Stewart, Willie 21 (2) 0 0 0 1 3 0 1 6.87

21 Wilkinson, Alan 4 (5) 2 0 0 1 1 0 1 7.11

25 Wright, John 9 (1) 0 0 0 0 6 1 0 6.40

30 Yeats, Colin 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 8.00

================================================================================================

2013/4 Transfers

================================================================================================

Date Player In From Fee

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

5.6.13 Keith MacLeod Hibs Bos

8.6.13 Steven MacDonald Inverness C. Thistle Bos

11.6.13 Craig Gordon Dundee Bos

11.6.13 James Hughes Free Transfer Free

18.6.13 James Evans Inverness C. Thistle £425K

18.6.13 Gordon Bennett Coventry Bos

25.6.13 Mark Kerr Dundee £250K p/

30.6.13 Wayne Chapman Sheff Utd £375K

16.7.13 Jamie Carragher Free Transfer Free

20.7.13 John Wright W.B.A. £24K

30.7.13 Steven Monaghan Free Transfer Free

31.7.13 Paul Miller Free Transfer Free

3.8.13 Jon Beswetherick Free Transfer Free

5.8.13 Alan Wilkinson Free Transfer Free

8.8.13 Gerard Free Transfer Free

11.8.13 Mark Moore Free Transfer Free

15.8.13 Ronaldo Free Transfer Free

9.9.13 Kevin Franck Free Transfer Free

25.9.13 Brian King Free Transfer Free

2.10.13 Kenny Deuchar Free Transfer Free

20.10.13 Ronaldo Free Transfer Free

2.11.13 Brian Sinclair Brentford Loan

21.12.13 Colin Yeats Derby Loan

1.3.14 Brian Sinclair Brentford Loan

20.4.14 Colin Yeats Derby Loan

Date Player Out To Fee

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

10.6.13 Ian Black Released Free

16.6.13 Alex Reuser Willem II £1M

18.6.13 Alan Wilkinson Released Free

19.6.13 Thomas Arnesson Molde £100K

20.6.13 Scott Shanks Millwall Bos

22.6.13 Kevin James Released Free

23.6.13 Darren Smith Released Free

25.6.13 Paul Barker Dundee Exch

26.6.13 Barry Roche York £100K

26.6.13 Seán Murray Released Free

1.7.13 Thomas Hitzlsperger Hearts £200K

5.8.13 Peter Thomson Released Free

5.8.13 Mark Moore Released Free

5.8.13 Artur Released Free

13.8.13 Terry Kidd Clyde Loan

16.9.13 Terry Kidd Alloa Loan

15.10.13 Ronaldo Released Free

6.11.13 Terry Kidd Cowdenbeath Loan

11.12.13 Terry Kidd East Stirling Loan

2.1.14 Matteo Ferrari Cremonese £100K

22.1.14 Terry Kidd Stenhousemuir Loan

================================================================================================

2013/4 Fixtures

================================================================================================

Date Opposition Ven Competition Res Attend Scorers

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

11.7.13 Ayr Utd H CM Cup 2:0 1339 Bennett, Hughes

12.7.13 Renton H CM Cup 3:0 566 Clemence, McDonald, Moore

13.7.13 Newton Stewart H CM Cup 3:0 593 G.Barr, S.McNeil, Bennett

16.7.13 Liverpool ENG H Friendly 0:2 1312

27.7.13 Dunfermline A Premier Division 0:1 8532

3.8.13 Raith Rovers H Premier Division 1:0 7004 Kerr

10.8.13 Celtic A Premier Division 2:4 36871 Ferrari pen, P.Miller

17.8.13 Dundee Utd H Premier Division 3:1 6547 P.Miller, Kerr, Gerard

20.8.13 Albion Rovers A League Cup 2nd Rnd 3:2 4757 Wilkinson, K.Simpson, MacDonald

25.8.13 Hibs A Premier Division 1:1 14074 Wilkinson

7.9.13 Inverness C. Thistle H Premier Division 3:0 6820 Kerr 2, G.Bennett

11.9.13 Dundee A League Cup 3rd Rnd 2:4 5106 P.Miller, MacLeod

14.9.13 Dundee A Premier Division 1:2 11851 Ronaldo

21.9.13 Kilmarnock H Premier Division 2:1 6564 Hughes 2

28.9.13 Aberdeen A Premier Division 2:2 12063 Gerard, Bueno

12.10.13 Celtic H Premier Division 2:1 8365 Ronaldo, Bennett pen

19.10.13 Motherwell H Premier Division 0:0 7610

26.10.13 Raith Rovers A Premier Division 2:1 7779 Gerard, Bueno

3.11.13 Dunfermline H Premier Division 2:1 8094 MacLeod, Gerard

9.11.13 Dundee Utd A Premier Division 3:3 12387 Bennett 3

16.11.13 Hibs H Premier Division 1:0 6524 M.Kerr

23.11.13 Inverness C. Thistle A Premier Division 0:2 10260

27.11.13 Dundee H Premier Division 0:0 7525

30.11.13 Kilmarnock A Premier Division 2:3 15964 B.King, Graham

7.12.13 Aberdeen H Premier Division 3:1 6508 Bennett 2, L.Miller

11.12.13 Rangers H Premier Division 2:1 8515 Kendall og, King

14.12.13 Celtic A Premier Division 1:1 36774 Franck

21.12.13 Rangers A Premier Division 0:2 36817

26.12.13 Motherwell A Premier Division 3:1 12149 Yeats pen, King, Gerard

31.12.13 Raith Rovers H Premier Division 2:0 6958 King, Graham

29.1.14 Dunfermline A Premier Division 1:0 9942 B.King

1.2.14 Rangers H Scottish Cup 3rd Rnd 0:2 3342

5.2.14 Hibs A Premier Division 0:2 14037

8.2.14 Inverness C. Thistle H Premier Division 3:0 6916 Bueno 4, Gerard, Ronaldo

12.2.14 Dundee Utd H Premier Division 0:3 6538

26.2.14 Dundee A Premier Division 0:0 11786

1.3.14 Kilmarnock H Premier Division 2:0 6532 Kerr, Franck

16.3.14 Aberdeen A Premier Division 2:2 16988 Gerard, King

29.3.14 Motherwell H Premier Division 0:1 7601

5.4.14 Rangers H Premier Division 2:2 8251 Bennett, L.Miller

12.4.14 Rangers H Premier Division Champ. Grp 1:0 8272 Hughes

19.4.14 Inverness C. Thistle A Premier Division Champ. Grp 3:1 8201 Gerard, W.Bennett og, J.Hughes

26.4.14 Dundee Utd A Premier Division Champ. Grp 2:1 12354 Yeats, J.Hughes

3.5.14 Celtic H Premier Division Champ. Grp 2:1 8418 Kerr, J.Hughes

10.5.14 Dunfermline A Premier Division Champ. Grp 0:1 10786

</pre>

Tables

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">

************************************************************************************************

Scottish Premier Division - Saturday 10th May 2014

************************************************************************************************

================================================================================================

2013/4 Table

================================================================================================

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st C Rangers 38 13 2 3 36 19 8 6 6 26 22 71

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Dumbarton 38 14 3 2 31 13 5 6 8 25 30 66

3rd Celtic 38 14 5 1 31 11 3 7 8 22 28 63

4th Dunfermline 38 11 6 3 27 13 5 5 8 23 26 59

5th Inverness C. Thistle 38 11 3 5 31 18 5 4 10 12 25 55

6th Dundee Utd 38 9 3 6 28 17 4 7 9 22 30 49

7th Hibs 38 9 6 4 27 21 6 4 9 16 18 55

8th Aberdeen 38 8 10 1 31 19 5 4 10 22 31 53

9th Motherwell 38 7 6 6 15 14 7 5 7 15 18 53

10th Dundee 38 8 8 4 27 16 4 6 8 13 21 50

11th Kilmarnock 38 9 3 6 26 19 3 3 14 14 34 42

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

12th R Raith Rovers 38 0 4 15 6 35 1 2 16 5 33 9

************************************************************************************************

Scottish First Division - Saturday 10th May 2014

************************************************************************************************

================================================================================================

2013/4 Table

================================================================================================

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st C Partick Thistle 36 12 3 3 37 23 9 3 6 32 31 69

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Queen of Sth 36 11 4 3 24 15 10 1 7 23 19 68

3rd Airdrie 36 12 3 3 27 13 8 3 7 25 25 66

4th Hearts 36 11 5 2 27 8 4 5 9 19 24 55

5th Queen's Park 36 8 2 8 23 26 8 2 8 30 27 52

6th Albion Rovers 36 8 4 6 21 22 4 4 10 15 26 44

7th Livingston 36 7 5 6 30 25 4 5 9 16 25 43

8th Morton 36 5 3 10 25 27 7 3 8 22 23 42

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

9th R Ayr Utd 36 7 3 8 24 24 4 6 8 14 23 42

10th R Peterhead 36 3 4 11 16 25 2 4 12 12 31 23

************************************************************************************************

Scottish Second Division - Saturday 10th May 2014

************************************************************************************************

================================================================================================

2013/4 Table

================================================================================================

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st C Falkirk 36 11 4 3 26 11 9 5 4 34 17 69

2nd P Clydebank 36 11 4 3 31 17 8 4 6 28 21 65

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd St. Johnstone 36 12 3 3 39 19 6 3 9 24 29 60

4th St. Mirren 36 10 7 1 38 21 5 5 8 25 30 57

5th Stranraer 36 10 3 5 42 36 6 5 7 34 35 56

6th Arbroath 36 7 4 7 23 23 7 3 8 20 25 49

7th Ross County 36 8 3 7 22 21 5 5 8 26 32 47

8th East Fife 36 11 3 4 40 25 1 6 11 18 33 45

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

9th R Cowdenbeath 36 3 8 7 20 31 2 3 13 11 35 26

10th R East Stirling 36 3 3 12 20 38 3 3 12 22 44 24

************************************************************************************************

Scottish Third Division - Saturday 10th May 2014

************************************************************************************************

================================================================================================

2013/4 Table

================================================================================================

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st C Berwick 36 11 3 4 36 30 11 2 5 33 25 71

2nd P Stenhousemuir 36 12 4 2 30 15 7 3 8 29 28 64

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Elgin City 36 11 2 5 28 15 8 4 6 23 23 63

4th Alloa 36 10 4 4 31 20 9 1 8 30 28 62

5th Brechin 36 7 5 6 27 24 11 1 6 32 25 60

6th Forfar 36 10 4 4 30 17 6 3 9 21 23 55

7th Clyde 36 10 2 6 23 20 4 3 11 15 26 47

8th Stirling 36 5 4 9 19 22 4 5 9 23 30 36

9th Montrose 36 5 0 13 17 35 2 5 11 9 24 26

10th Fort William 36 1 5 12 16 32 3 6 9 15 25 23

</pre>

[Brian of Nazareth]

Awards Round Up

Team

Livingston defeated Clydebank 1-0 after extra time in the Challenge Cup Final , with James Smith scoring, whilst Celtic needed penalties to secure the League Cup, after a 0-0 score after regular time against Dunfermline, with defender Goran Bogdanevic getting the winner spot kick. The showpiece Scottish Cup in Scotland was contested between Celtic and surprise finalists Airdrie, but it was a one sided affair as Celtic completed a cup double with an emphatic 3-1 win – including a brace from Nick Allen.

Abroad, Real Madrid overcame a plucky Coventry City side in the UEFA Cup but it was very close, the Spaniards only winning in a penalty shoot out with David Traore scoring the decisive kick. In the Champions League Final the run of 5 successive English winners came to an end as the final was contested between Juventus and Milan with Mauro Cirillo dispatching the winning kick in another penalty shoot out after a 0-0 draw.

Individual

Top Goal Scorer in the Scottish leagues went to 27-year-old Scott Sutherland of Brechin, with 27 goals in 30 games. The Player of the Year award was yet again won by Mark Koeman to some bemusement, as the player had been inconsistent, and with not that many goals or assists had barely added anything – reviving rumors the awards were fixed. The Young Player of the Year was won by 21-year-old Scott Reid of Celtic after a fine year at right back. In the SPL Team of The Year, Mark Kerr earned himself a place after his excellent year in the heart of the midfield.

[Guest]

Good job chap! Your story truly is an inspiration. Also your match report on the Dumbies cup clash against Aberdeen this season had me in fits. Keep it up...

[Tyrone the Magazine]

well done

[Brian of Nazareth]

LISBON LION CHALLENGE - OFFICIALLY STARTING NOW

after 14 years

[Brian of Nazareth]

b] Dumbarton 2014 –2015 [/b]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>

Daily Tribune

by A. Bloke

Purging The Squad

George Cameron, manager of Scottish Premier Division Side Dumbarton it seems has finally decided to chase the dream he trumpeted so loudly as a younger upstart at Fort William 14 years ago in 2000.

In an interview exclusive he gave with me yesterday he bares all about his decision to go Scottish and what he hopes to achieve by doing so:

So George, it has been a while since the first words of a revolution were trumpeted – why so long to make good on those words?

Well Andy, as you may recall I had a tough time at Fort William with 9th, 10th and 10th finishes before being sacked in my fourth season. Now I am no quitter and I would have carried on stoically even longer if it were possible but it wasn’t. I felt myself highly fortunate to get back into management with Southport, then even more so when the Dumbarton job opened up and I believed once more that I could realize my dream.

That was almost 10 years ago, but only a season after I started the truth hit me hard in the face – I simply could not do it immediately and create the all Scottish side and take them to glory so soon. Patience is not a virtue I am overly blessed with, but even so trying to attract quality players from Scotland and make them succeed was a tough prospect. Remember that our Youth Set Up was appalling and produced minimal talent – and those who did come through only arrived after a few years. We had neither the cash nor reputation to draw other young talent to the club, even those who wouldn’t take the club forward fast didn’t come so I was stuck in a quandary.â€

And that is when you decided to put your prophecy on hold?

“ Yes. Even after winning promotion to the Second Division and then earning the Denmark job I knew I had a challenge too far for me. Better men than myself may have struggled through, but perhaps they may have cultivated more able young talents. Money talks sadly and that is what we did not have so instead I decided to try and enhance my reputation, and I certainly had the opportunity to do so with Denmark, you know – get my name on the International stage and perhaps that would help bring in better players.

And what was the Denmark experience like? Just to go on a brief tangent from Dumbarton.

“ I did enjoy it yes, and I think I lost a little of my inclination against foreigners – perhaps a bad point when you consider my overall goal but it was hard – I worked with some great players, they were on another level to those I worked with at Dumbarton at that stage – but in the final years I grew weary of the challenge, and neglected my interests there, I longed for the Scotland job and I actually felt staying on at Denmark hindered my chances so I quit. I know it sounds a little arrogant, maybe desperate, but I refuse to hide my passion for the National Game as well as the club and the continual failure of Scotland in qualifying for tournaments eats me up inside, and I hope that I can prove myself a worthy candidate the next time the job becomes available.â€

And now you can believe you can achieve that finally?

†I am prepared to concede I have taken too long over setting this up – perhaps once we first achieved promotion to the SPL would have been the time to begin the quest but again there were obstacles. The sizeable debt over the new stands, and again the dearth of talent available. Grant Graham was the only half decent player to come through our academy and he was sold to help keep the club afloat. Cash injections were commonplace, and fortunate, but indicative of our plight and signing quality Scottish players to the side? Now I hear some may argue I should have just filled my side with young rejects and tried my best but that would have taken the club back down the leagues, so I feared and with the talents of the likes of Jose Cano [/b] it was difficult to let go – even when I tried to limit the immigrants in the side, I still found that I relied on English players like Alan Wilkinson or Keith Simpson. Now though we have a chance. I must admit that despite my longing for this time, it was sad to such talents as Bueno and Liam Miller leave – they were quality players but simply not born in the right country, and in truth I made the right decision.

For Scottish football to improve I realize I must help set an example – bringing young Scots through – we have finally invested in the youth set up now that spare money has been made available and encouraging others to do the same – and I feel that if I can take a club such as this to further glory, in Europe and domestically then I shall be a proud men. I forget sometimes I am now 45, and not the sprightly 32 year old filled with enthusiasm before, so time is against me. I should offer my apologies to all those now who hope I would start this earlier – but I simply couldn’t practically achieve it. Now though – I will persevere – we have the likes of McFadden and Graham and Evans who have been here a few years with quality forwards too – and I shall maintain the proud roots of this nation and I sincerely hope we can make a positive impression on the league once more. Maybe a repeat of last seasons second place is beyond us, but I shall give it the best we can.â€

Those were George Cameron’s views, and now we will take a brief look at the transfers over the previous summer to see where those departing players went, and who came in.

OUT :

WAYNE CHAPMAN – Airdrieonians, 110,000

KEITH SIMPSON – Colchester, Bosman

KEVIN FRANCK – Lommel – Bosman

STEPHEN CLEMENCE – Raith Rovers -Bosman

MICHAEL BLAKE – Raith Rovers – Bosman

ALAN WILKINSON – contract expired – released

JON BESWETHERICK – Southampton – 16,000

GERARD – Inverness Caledonian Thistle – 650,000

ALEJANDRO BUENO – Airdrieonians – 200,000

RONALDO – retired

COLIN MELDRUM – retired

JAMIE CARRAGHER - retired

IN

THOMAS CRAIG Bristol Rovers, 32, D/MR, Bosman

THOMAS MCMANUS Charlton 33, SC, Bosman

JIM WILSON Dundee United, 29, DMC, 200,000

<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

[Brian of Nazareth]

Season 2014-2015

Players Overview

Goalkeepers

James Evans 30 He has definitely imposed himself as an excellent goalkeeper at the club and made some fine stops the previous season to help push Dumbarton so far up the table. He’ll be tested further in the coming season though as more pressure will be applied on the defense.

13/14 Record: 34 gamers, 38 conceded, 1 MoM, 7.06

Craig Gordon 30 Craig was a valuable back up, a role he was thankfully happy to provide as he supporter James very well. When he came in, it was usually with a weakened defense but he had some fine games too, and will be important again this year.

13/14Record: 7 starts, 2 subs, 13 conceded, 7.11

Defenders

Liam Sullivan 32 DL Liam arrived on a free to provide experience and depth in this position. He was released by English second division side Torquay United but George needed someone he could afford to come in.

John Wright 24 DL It wasn’t bad year for John but neither was it spectacular. Having played second or third fiddle for large parts he appreciated what time he did have, though discipline was a problem. He has potential but he has to work hard.

13/14 Record: 9 starts, 1 sub, 6.40

Steven Monaghan 22 D/MR The right back was superb last year, a bargan from Leeds and he was a favourite with many of the fans. Hard working, pacy and also able to send in a half decent cross George will hope he can avoid an injury free year.

13/14 Record: 24 starts, 3 subs, 4 assists, 6.85

Craig Graham 29 DC An excellent campaign from Craig saw his profile raised on a national scale with some tipping him to force his way into the national set up. Confident, a good distributor and a tough tackler he’s an important part of George’s plans for the future.

13/14 Record: 33 starts, 1 sub, 2 goals, 4 MoM, 7.15

Thomas Craig 32 D/MR The defender came in for two main reasons – experienced and free. His talent is questionable but he should be ok if he works hard enough – though he barely featured at Bristol Rovers so there are question marks over him.

Steven MacDonald 31 DC He’s not an SPL defender, and despite featuring heavily last season he did struggle and had to rely on others at times. He’ll play a fair bit again this season but only because George has few other credible alternatives.

13/14 Record: 20 starts, 2 subs, 1 goal, 6.32

[Brian of Nazareth]

Midfielders

Willie Stewart 26 DMC Willie had a tougher time this time round but still played reasonably well. Without Alejandro anymore though the responsibility lay with him – and with the squad considerably reduced in size – he’d need to do well.

13/14 Record:21 starts, 2 subs, 1 assist, 1 MoM, 6.87

Mark Kerr 32 MC Mark proved to be a key player in helping Dumbarton enjoy such a successful season. He scored and provided several goals, helped breakdown opponents attacks and was usually the centre point of any Dumbarton attack – more of the same please.

13/14 Record: 27 starts, 1 sub, 7 goals, 6 assists, 3 MoM, 7.57

Keith MacLeod 26 MC The former Hibbee is no star player and was fortunate to play as often as he did last year. He played well on occasion but not enough to really establish himself as a regular. Still – he was born the right side of the border and he’ll be involved this season.

13/14 Record: 14 starts, 5 subs, 2 goals, 6.87

James McFadden 31 MC James suffered an injury plagued campaign, but when he did get out on the pitch he played very well, especially during the latter part of the season where a brief run helped maintain Dumbarton’s second place in the league. Hopefully he can overcome those knee problems and enjoy another year at the club.

13/14 Record: 13 starts, 3 subs, 4 MoM, 7.00

Colin Yeats (loan) 25 MC Colin contributed a fair degree when on loan last year, and entering his final year of his Derby contract he has returned until November to bolster the midfield. When the club’s finances pick up George hopes to make him a permanent addition to the club.

13/14 Record: 13 starts, 2 subs, 3 goals, 2 assists, 7.58

Mark Stewart ( loan ) 24 ML Mark arrived from Bristol City where he had struggled to fit in since joining them from Bolton. With a keen left foot George is hoping Mark will be able to replace some of the quality provided by Liam Miller or Gerard last season.

Jim Wilson 29 D/DMC [/b] the midfielder arrived for a cut price fee after Bueno left, primarily really as back up for Stewart, but he is moderately capable. George was also discovering now why the National game seemed to be going down the pan as fewer rising stars were appearing.

Attackers

Gordon Bennett A good year for Gordon having made his move permanent with a decent contribution of goals. Perhaps he lost a little consistency with different partners alongside him and not really having an extended spell up front, he still performed well, and his target presence should once again prove a useful asset.

13/14 Record:21 starts, 9 sub, 8 goals, 2 assists, 3 MoM, 7.20

Paul Miller 24 FRLC More often used as a sub last year, Paul will have far more opportunities this year as the squad has been cut down in size. His strength is in his pace and vision, and he find himself more often than not in a withdrawn midfielders role.

13/14 Record: 11 starts 7 subs, 3 goals, 7.00

James Hughes 24 SC The forward enjoyed a good year at the club but didn’t start as often as he might have liked due to others stealing his place, but with a slight reduction in competition it is likely he will hold a regular spot up front this season.

13/14 Record:13 starts, 15 subs, 6 goals, 3 assists, 1 MoM 6.96

Brian King 30 SC Brian performed well enough but compared to previous seasons at this level it wasn’t his best as his efficiency in front of goal was terrible – almost Andy Cole-esque in terms of how many chances were also wasted by him. Hopefully he’ll sharpen up.

13/14 Record: 17 starts, 6 subs, 6 goals, 3 assists, 7.09

Thomas McManus 33 SC The experienced former Charlton man came in to add depth, though his lack o match experience in recent years will likely mean he’ll be re-introduced relatively slowly

[Brian of Nazareth]

Preview

The First fully Scottish season since his Fort William days, also came in hand with the new facilities purchased by the club. This of course meant no fees were available to improve the squad, but the chances of finding some gems in the youth ranks and bringing in better coaches was improved considerably. The squad was notably reduced over the summer, the wages trimmed to the minimum with even players like Kevin MacDonald and Terry Kidd leaving the club. Of note though was that entry into the Champions League would at least create more financial rewards – assuming they were able to qualify which was no easy task. A pre-season tour of England was arranged to warm the side up in the middle of July and George was scared as to how his charges would fare potentially against the big European sides. The board had recognized this and eased the burden on George by again just asking for there to be no relegation scrap.

The first warm up was held at Ashford Town on the same day Brazil only just overcame surprise finalists Japan in the World Cup Final, relying on a winning goal in the 86th minute. As for Dumbarton – the paucity of George’s squad was clear to see as he couldn’t even fill all 9 substitutes with reserves included – but a 1-0 victory, courtesy of Brian King and a little exercise was assured. It also saw the first sign of James Scott a young 16 year old right sided defender who was the first player to come through the ranks since it’s long overdue overhaul.

Mark Moore was then allowed to impress on trial against Bromsgrove, scoring a goal and involved in the other for Mark Stewart as Dumbarton went down 3-2 – losing after John Wright was sent off in the second half – not that that can count as much of an excuse however, but Jim Wilson also saw his first bit of action in Dumbarton colours since arriving from Dundee United. The final match saw a draw against Kidderminster Harriers as more players ran around for a wee bit, Steven MacDonald scoring the opening goal before a second half goal from the Harriers tied it.

[Brian of Nazareth]

July/August 2014

League

Kilmarnock hosted the first game of George’s hopefully positive new era at Dumbarton, and George already had defensive issues. John Wright was suspended after his pre-season dismissal and Steven Monaghan was still injured, meaning 16-year-old James Scott earned his first start for the club at right back. The match as a whole made George realize how different this season was likely to be though. The first half was shared evenly between both sides, as Kilmarnock threatened through Mark Weir and Johan Melander, whilst James Hughes and Colin Yeats seemed the most inspiring members of the Dumbarton attack – the difference between the solidness of the previous season did not appear to be there at this time, and George could not be certain his side would hold on. When Graeme Oliver was sent off before half time the momentum should have swung in Dumbarton’s favour but they couldn’t capitalize after the break. In fairness Mark Kerr did have the ball in the back of the net, but it was ruled offside, Gordon Bennett playing the midfielder in just too soon. That did not as George hoped; act as a catalyst for an onslaught and Kilmarnock were able to regroup once more and as they beat off the away side’s attack they responded themselves. Late on Ian Kerr then played in Johan Melander to score the winning goal.

Inverness away followed in August, and changes were made, with trialist Gordon Grant starting along with returning defenders John Wright and Stephen Monaghan . The first half proved to a much better affair from George’s point of view, as Dumbarton were in control for much of the game, having scored in the 5th minute through Tommy Craig . A sour note was an injury to on loan midfielder Mark Stewart but otherwise Dumbarton were notably the better side - as Colin Yeats and Gordon Grant rained shots on the ICT goal, and it was only the heroics of Mick Edwards that kept the home side in it. Sadly for George though, his team did not maintain the high paced opening in the second half, falling to complacency as ICT then took grip of the game’s direction and former Dumbarton playmaker Gerard, weaved his magic for his new side playing in David Fox to equalize with 20 minutes remaining. That goal fired up the home side as the momentum stayed with them and an inevitable winner followed through Frenchman Reynald Hutton as more points were blown by Dumbarton – not the ideal start to the season by any means.

A first home match against Dundee saw more changes as James Scott came back in for Steven Monaghan who had a neck problem, whilst Mark Dempsie was awarded a debut start, and Jim Wilson also made his first start, ahead of Willie Stewart . The match started terribly though from George’s point of view though as Dundee were 1-0 up inside 5 minutes. James Evans escaped a red card after tripping Marcus Charles but he could not stop the penalty kick and already a concerned feeling was spreading around the stands. Erik Espedal and Graeme O’Neill then tested Evans again with a free kick and snap volley respectively. The momentum was ffecting the players who were finding it difficult to combat. Mark Dempsie and James Scott were being tested severely especially down the right flank. Though – like when Dumbarton went up against ICT before failing to double the lead, the game can change and it did so in this one as 5 minutes before the break, as Paul Miller racing into the Dundee penalty area was clipped by goalkeeper Glynn Thompson – who was then dismissed for his challenge. Colin Yeats dispatched the penalty and Dumbarton now had the confidence going into half time. Moments after the restart and another goal almost arrived as James McFadden picked out Paul Miller but the forward’s header was narrowly the wrong side of the right hand upright and Dundee survived. George then introduced his triple signing, including now permanent signing Gordon Grant . The players did help speed up the game again as the hosts put the pressure on 10 man Dundee. Gordon Bennett and Keith MacLeod were two subs who went close to finding the elusive winning goal before Grant did so, and pleasingly it arrived from a fine team move. Mark Dempsi collected a ball from Evans before pushing it out to the right and James Scott . The defender took the ball forward a step before sending a dazzling 45 yard crossfield pass to Keith MacLeod on the left. The midfielder then provided a perfect ball in for Gordon Grant to power home with is forehead as a victory was finally assured for Dumbarton.

Away to Rangers was the next ominous tie to befall Dumbarton, and it was a big game to showcase a new signing – Kiegan Parker . Steven Monaghan was among many of those restored to the line up, amid a little shake up but after 6 minutes the Gers were ahead as David McCracken lept high over Jim Wilson’s head to beat James Evans . Rangers then dominated the remainder of the half thereafter as Christer Emanuelsson and Mel Cunningham attempted to extend the lead, but Mark Dempsie and Craig Graham did a fine job marshalling the back line. At the interval George tried to emphasize the need to be patient and attack when an opportunity presents itself, and the approach almost paid dividends. James Hughes and Brian King found themselves in promising positions before wasting it, and then subbed off the pitch, as Dumbarton tried to fight back. Then, with 12 minutes remaining John Wright sent in a free kick, that was met with confusion, and Mark Dempsie reacted quickest to put his side back on level terms and George thought his side had earned a point. Cruelly though, there were to be denied as stoppage time neared, with Mel Cunningham firing a 25 yard shot past the stranded Evans to win it for the home side and it was really a galling moment for Dumbarton.

A few days later there was a return to Cliftonhill to try and respond to that disappointment with Motherwell the visitors. George changed his attacking line up, but left the rest of the side alone. After a very slow start to the game, it was the visitors who first threatened – with Martin Snodin forcing Evans to tip behind for a corner – the resulting effort from Gary Davison forcing a goal line clearance from Steven Monaghan . That fortunately spurred Dumbarton into life as they stepped up a notch, James McFadden forcing a firm stop from Sean Allaway, and then just after half an hour had been played they took the lead. Willie Stewart sent in a free kick, McFadden headed on and Gordon Bennett was there to finish the move off and hand Dumbarton the lead at half time. In the second a similar tale emerged – both sides working hard, as the ball rarely left the middle third of the pitch, before Motherwell and Gary Henderson tested Evans again. The similarity to the first half was such that Dumbarton then extended their lead midway through the half, as Gordon Bennett enjoyed a long unchallenged run into the area before chipping succinctly over Allaway’s head to make it 2-0. Any hope Motherwell then had of getting back into the game was extinguished 5 minutes later as Allaway was sent off for a professional foul and Bennett completed a well deserved hat trick from the spot. The 3 points were all but sealed and confidence had returned to the side. A glossy finish to the game was provided by Mark Kerr who finished off good work from Paul Miller as August ended on a high note.

[Brian of Nazareth]

b] Cups [/b]

Other Monthly News

Mark Dempsie, former Kilmarnock and Scotland defender arrived on a years deal moments before Dumbarton kicked off their competitive season against Kilmarnock. George’s struggle to attract new coaches became evident when second division St. Mirren player coach Ian Killen rejected them out right.

Young striker David Russell was farmed out on loan to East Stirling on a season long loan. After impressing on trial, Gordon Grant signed a permanent contract, the 23 year can play at either centre back or centre forward.

Midway through the month, the group stages for the Champions League were announced and George knew grimly it would be an experience to savour whilst it was there with Group H also consisting of NK Dinamo, Fiorentina and Real Madrid – that’s an unknown quantity in Eastern Europe and two of the top sides in Italy and Spain – a supremely tough challenge. Still – the 1.8million pounds earned from simply appearing in it would do wonders for the clubs coffers and even might raise enough for a decent signing. That money did in fact spark a great deal of rumours amongst the press as George and his scouts were spotted in various stadia around the country, and even in the nether regions of Britain too.

The first of those to come in was Kiegan Parker a 32 year old forward from Leicester City. Valued at 1.5 million George used tough bargaining tools to reduce the initial fee to 200,000 pounds with more notes due after a set amount of appearances both at club and international level. George was delighted to bring in the 17 times capped player.

As Jim Hunter also arrived for 400,000 pounds from Reading, the 27 year old defender already well known to George, it was also evident the New Youth set up was paying dividends with Brian McGregor a 1 7 year old left back, Mark Currie a 16 year old with a defensive mind set and Scott McPherson another holding player all being recommended within a week George was more relaxed about Dumbarton’s future. McPherson looked to be the most promising but all were offered contracts nevertheless.

An old acquaintance was also renewed for George after his Denmark days, as Thomas Gravesen arrived to learn a bit about the coaching trade. There were some questions about whether a Dane could be involved in a Scottish set up but George dismissed them, proclaiming would never be a player at the club since his retirement in any shape or form and George felt he owed the midfielder a favour or two. Despite that, many remained critical.

The squad for the Champions League Phase 1 matches was also decided by the end of the month, with the as yet undeparted Liam Miller the only one not to be involved in the 25 man squad, as on the final day yet another young graduate came through the highly rated academy – 17 year old Kevin Irvine a left sided defender with a promising future if he continued to work hard – and it was because of that George decided to abandon his 500,000 pound bid for Derby’s Steve Taylor as it would be precious money wasted.

[Terk]

good to see this still going strong. still a good read

[Brian of Nazareth]

cheers Terk, I'll get there in the end hopefully

September

League

After the internationals Dumbarton were at Cliftonhill once more, this time welcoming Patrick Thistle back into the top flight after a long absence and 7,776 fans were in the ground to witness it. After the booster over Motherwell Dumbarton were the superior side over Partick, who barely crossed the half way line as they sought to repel their hosts. Kiegan Parker missed two easy chances from close range to open the scoring, before James McFadden had a pretty legitimate claim for a penalty appeal turned down after Fergus Tiernan brought him down. As another goalless half appeared imminent Dumbarton finally found their mark. Mark Kerr wiggled his way infield from the left flank before reversing play back out to Gordon Bennett on the edge of the area, the forward then sent a diagonal ball forward where Kiegan Parker finally found his mark, his arms raised aloft celebrating with the fans. After the interval, though Dumbarton tried to press home for a second, with McFadden hitting the upright soon after, Partick came back a stronger side and threatened to tie the match up on a couple of occasions. Firstly Paul McLeod hit directly at Evans and then substitute Stewart Manson fired wide from a tight angle. George then brought on new legs to freshen the side up and it helped steady the home team. Steven Monaghan and John Wright were more threatening down the flanks. Bennett and Monaghan then both had chances to score but were denied by Neil Thompson before Mark Kerr finally secured the points with 5 minutes to go.

Early pace setters Dundee United, who had won all 6 of their opening games hosted Dumbarton in the next league match, one George knew would be tough on his players after a recent congestion in the fixture list. A bright opening was however made to the game as Paul Miller and Gordon Bennett both tested Neil Johnson inside the first 10 minutes, but after that it became a very open game with chances at both ends, Dundee threatening most through Ian Hume and Paul Di Giacomo, whilst Bennett and Dempsie were equally close to scoring the first. The game went to half time all square, though only becase 2 goals were scored within a minute of each other. First Ian Hume scored for Dundee – and then from the kick off Dumbarton passed the ball gently around before Paul Miller pulled a ball back from the goal line for Willie Stewart to hammer home from.The second half continued in a similar manner to the first, until a crucial spell won it for the hosts. James Evans only pushed a corner into the path of Malcolm Christie who scored and then the same striker scored form the penalty spot 2 minutes later after Liam O’Sullivan tripped Ian Hume. At 3-1 with 15 minutes left Dumbarton could not regroup and instead fell away to George’s dismay as Christie had time to collected a hat-trick in the dying moments, as it became 4 consecutive away losses in the league, only partly aided by 3 home wins.

The final game of the month finally arrived against Celtic on the 27th – it was at Cliftonhill so George hoped the season could end on a high – but he needed to try and work out where Dumbarton’s goals might come from as it had been an area they had struggled with for a long time. After 8 minutes it seemed perfectly possible that the month could end on a high note, as Celtic were reduced to 10 men after Majic Nader was sent off for violent conduct. However it was Celtic who took the initiative surging forward, and after barracking the Dumbarton defense with a man less, scored twice , with Babangida and a penalty from Nick Allen after Craig Graham’s discipline yet again got the better of him – it was a problem that was becoming far too prevalent in George’s eyes, and after that it was Celtic who ran away with the rest of the half as the fans forlornly looked on at their struggling side, hoping for a flash of inspiration to come from somewhere. In the second an improved Dumbarton did fight back as hard as they could, the full backs pounding down the wings, even shooting themselves where necessary ( and I know that can read a little oddly ) before actually pulling one back through Paul Miller who scored his first of the season, after being played in by Colin Yeats . That goal almost saw an equalizer arrive with 10 minutes left as substitute Thomas McManus fired in a shot low from a Willie Stewart corner but the ball was pushed out by Scott Lawrie. Celtic then countered, sent a ball into the box and Jim Hunter put the ball past his own keeper to had victory to Celtic, and keep Dumbarton down in the lower half of the table.

Cups

Scottish League Cup

Airdrie hosted Dumbarton in the 3rd round as George looked for revenge for their defeat last time round in this competition – but even so he still filled the squad with new youngsters who had developed recently and the odd fringe player to rest legs and allow some points to be proved. A dour first half was miserable for George on two counts – the injuries to both James McFadden and Gordon Grant would keep them out of action for 3 weeks and 2 months respectively, whilst Alejandro Bueno was causing his former employers plenty of problems as Dumbarton didn’t even register a shot until early in the second half and it was only the inadequacy of Gary Allen and Mark Nelson that stopped Airdrie going ahead. However, a stroke of luck proved to be the difference as Dumbarton managed to win the tie – as a penalty was awarded in the 70th minute – and debutant Thomas McManus tucked it away into the back of the net and Dumbarton were through to the quarter final where they would travel to Rangers.

[Brian of Nazareth]

Champions League Phase 1

Wednesday 10th September was a landmark occasion for George and Dumbarton. The fans were in full forced and the local community was bubbling with excitement as Dumbarton left to travel to Italy to face the mighty Fiorentina in their first European match. The fans watching at home were in fact treated to a goal glut, with 8 goals on the night, though it was a pity Fiorentina scored the clear majority of them. The opening 20 minutes had in fact started amazingly well for the club, as they shocked the home fans by taking the lead – Kiegan Parker heading home a Willie Stewart corner to the delight of the traveling hordes. It only lasted 7 minutes though as Vincenzo Berti leveled but again George was as stunned as the next man as Mark Kerr restored the lead as fine work from Gordon Grant and Kiegan Parker helped manufacture the opening. That lead lasted less than 2 minutes though as Berti again leveled. George was pretty pleased with his plucky sides efforts that half, even though they didn’t last long enough to go in square at half time as Matteo Brighi put the home side ahead on 42 minutes but they could still hold their heads high – they had shocked their hosts. George now asked for 110% effort in the second half, to play the best they could to stay in the game. For 25 minutes it worked, as McFadden, Stewart, Miller and Monaghan in particular were working on overdrive to keep Fiorentina at bay. Fresh legs were brought on to help ease their burden, but in the end it was too much and Dumbarton crumbled. Vicente scored twiced within a minute, and with 5 minutes to go James Evans was sent off and Berti completed his hat-trick to make it 6-2. It had been a tough night out there, but despite the scoreline there were still plenty of positives to cling on to for the rest of the competition.

Dinamo came to Scotland as Dumbarton hosted their first European fixture of the campaign as George was forced to change personnel due to injuries and a suspension which also meant there were just enough players to fill up the 7 substitutes on the bench too. Not knowing what to expect, George kept his approach the same for the first half as a packed 10,000 turned out to support the side. As it turned out, the Croats were a lot better than many press had given them credit for, nearly breaching Craig Gordon’s net on 4 occasions, but Goran Besic and Mario Rajic missed. For Dumbarton their solitary shot from 40 yards came from Willie Stewart as the hosts struggled to adapt. In the second half, Dumbarton improved a little but it still wasn’t enough to break down the tough resistance that faced them. Danijel Milnaric saved Dumbarton’s only goalbound effort – and that was a deflected free kick from Thomas Craig the substitute. For the most part it was a game of tough tackling and labored passing. Igor Maric could have scored late on but fortunately he blazed over as the final whistle went. Still – in all George counted in successful at least. His players learned more about what was expected of them, the fans had seen what they were competing with and a first point in European competition had been earned.

The next test was against the famed Real Madrid, in Spain and George knew his players would be overawed by the experience – and he only hoped there was enough desire to play for pride amongst them to avoid a cricket score result. The tiredness affecting many players after a compact September, saw many changes enforced – even bringing in Kevin Irvine and Leigh Burton into the squad. As the game progressed it was only inevitable Dumbarton would make a mistake soon enough to let Rodriguez or Tevenet finally score. They actually lasted a creditable 40 minutes – but then the turning point came as Craig Graham in desperation went in 2 footed, got sent off and from there George resorted to praying. 2 goals before half time gave the ominous impression of a painful second half, both goals coming from Rodriguez and Tevenet unsurprisingly. James Hughes was replaced by Jim Hunter as Dumbarton adopted a safety first policy in the second half. Rodriguez then scored 3 minutes after the restart to the groans of many away fans. Fortunately though the Spaniards let up after that, knowing full well the tie had long since been secured and Dumbarton were actually allowed to play some football in this game for once. Gordon Bennett even managing to let off a shot. However, Real Madrid got bored after a while and decided to excite their fans as Rodriguez completed a hat-trick with 10 minutes to go. Thankfully that was the final goal of the game though and a big learning experience had been gained from this trip, however miserable it may have appeared on paper.

Other Monthly News

Scotland sneaked a last minute goal at home to Estonia in another wise shoddy display to earn a victory, that coupled with a dour away 0-0 draw against the Czech Republic, put the team on top.

Liam Miller ended his Dumbarton spell with many well wishers seeing him off as he completed a 28,000 pound move to Wimbledon, whilst Kevin Irvine signed his first professional contract. James McFadden signed a 4 year contract, whilst John Wright and Gordon Bennett both rejected theirs. Steve Taylor the Derby left back, arrived on a long loan, after George decided not to pursue a permanent deal a few weeks ago.

John Jack was signed right at the end of the month from Celtic, the 32 year old attacker will hopefully play a big role in boosting Dumbarton’s goals. Colin Yeats then made his move permanent for 160,000 pounds after that to give George a welcome boost.

[Tyrone the Magazine]

still a great story

[Brian of Nazareth]

thanks

October

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">

************************************************************************************************

Scottish Premier Division - Saturday 4th October 2014

************************************************************************************************

================================================================================================

2014/5 Table

================================================================================================

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

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1st Dundee Utd 8 4 0 0 9 2 3 1 0 12 7 22

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2nd Celtic 9 2 1 1 9 5 4 0 1 10 2 19

3rd Hibs 9 4 0 0 5 0 1 1 3 7 10 16

4th Dunfermline 8 2 2 0 8 4 2 1 1 3 3 15

5th Rangers 8 3 0 1 4 2 1 2 1 4 5 14

6th Aberdeen 9 2 1 1 3 1 2 0 3 3 5 13

7th Kilmarnock 9 3 0 1 7 6 1 0 4 2 8 12

8th Motherwell 9 3 0 2 7 4 0 1 3 1 7 10

9th Dumbarton 8 3 0 1 9 4 0 0 4 3 9 9

10th Inverness C. Thistle 9 2 1 2 7 7 0 1 3 2 7 8

11th Dundee 9 2 1 2 3 4 0 0 4 2 6 7

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

12th Partick Thistle 9 1 1 3 6 11 0 0 4 1 8 4

</pre>

League

Hibs away brought the next test for George, and he was hoping the recent signings might inspire a little enthusiasm in his side, as John Jack was awarded his debut against his old side. A crap start to the game saw Antonio scored within 10 minutes as Hibs took an immediate stranglehold on the game, punishing the frequent errors made by inept players in the park, and not too long after that another complete idiot helped Hibs consolidate their lead – Steven Monaghan randomly passing the ball into his own net and not to James Evans . George subbed him immediately and kicked him up the arse as he made his way back towards the tunnel. Another sloppy pass from on loan defender Steve Taylor saw the left back suffer a similar fate. John Jack and Mark Stewart then picked up yellow cards for silly errors, and at half time George’s face turned an interesting shade of purple red and black. The words emanating from his mouth were extraordinarily even more colorful. In the second it was no surprise to see the players buck up their ideas a bit as they started to play Association Football once again, and ten minutes in, Willie Stewart found John Jack in space and the attacker punished the ball in. That brought hope of getting something from this game, but those hopes were dashed as any other Dumbarton chances fell to the feet of Kiegan Parker who seemed more interesting in seeing how high he could kick the ball in the air. 60 feet up was one of his more impressive efforts as another defeat on the road beckoned and Dumbarton slipped ever closer to the bottom spot – to the consternation of the board.

Kilmarnock visited on the 18th as George looked to bring back some confidence into his side, but with a misfiring strike force George wasn’t hopeful, and Bennett’s injury had certainly not helped that. The first half proved to be one of the dullest George had ever witnessed in his career, with more errors committed in 45 minutes than Dumbarton had managed all the previous season. John Jack had a 60 yard free kick bounce 15 yards shy of the goal, whilst Kilmarnock were vaguely more threatening as they at least shot inside the Dumbarton half, but James Evans was comfortably able to watch both balls sail a long way wide of the net. In the second, George encouraged a more attacking play as more subs were made, and eventually the game became more exciting as Dumbarton controlled the play. It was a pity then that all the players seemed not to know where the goal actually was. Mark Stewart had 5 efforts headed back into play by supporters, another knocking a poor old man over, whilst James Hughes and Kiegan Parker forced the ball boys on a couple of long runs out of the stadium to retrieve the balls. Parker at least though managed one tame header on goal which Petter Westerberg collected comfortably as another dour 0-0 match was played out.

A trip to Motherwell followed as a win was now desperately sought by George and the staff to pull them away from the bottom of the table, with the hosts in mid table. A revert to 4-4-2 plain and simple actually did help Dumbarton play more solidly in the opening exchanges, as cohesion certainly improved and it was clear this formation suited most of the players, even if John Jack felt a little out of place on the right wing. Dumbarton’s cause was aided by a 10th minute penalty as well. Kiegan Parker was fouled by Stephen Clarke and Thomas McManus slotted the ball into the net and that aided the side’s confidence greatly. As the game began to drift into obscurity, a second goal moments before half time handed George a massive boost. Mark Kerr won another midfield tussle before sending the ball out wide to Kiegan Parker on the right, the forward burst into the area before siding the ball to McManus to finish. The frailties affecting the side were still not completely absent this afternoon though, as a highly charged Motherwell responded well in the second half, as Evans was the busier net minder, before Martin Gallagher found Paul Hendry in enough room to beat Evans on 55 minutes and the game was now very much alive again and George’s nails receded rather rapidly. His nails needn’t have worried in the end though, as with 20 minutes to go, Dumbarton made a break away chance count to restore a 2 goal advantage that would not be lost. This time it was McManus the provider, picking out Mark Kerr just next to the ‘D’ and the midfielder smashed home to make it 3-1 and Dumbarton leapfrogged their opponents into 8th place in the table.

[Brian of Nazareth]

Champions League Phase 1

The return fixture with Real Madrid in Dumbarton really brought the fans out in force for this special occasion against the renowned Spanish side despite the result of the contest pretty much a foregone conclusion. George went with a fairly regular side but even so, an attempt to resist the onslaught early on and attack later was destined to fail as the superiority of the Saniards was highly noticeable, and the only thing Gordon Bennett was able to do up front was slide into an advertising board and be replaced by James Hughes . 3 minutes later and Garcia Tevenet scored for Madrid as Dumbarton desperately tried to hang on. James Evans was kept exceptionally busy at the back but he did keep further attempts out as it remained 1-0 at half time. In the second more Spanish dominance finally found a second goal for the away side as Samuel Eto’o beat Evans. That goal did spark a 4 minute period of play were the hosts were in Madrid’s half for a bit, and to the delight of the home crowd scored with a first shot as sub Thomas McManus collected a pass from Mark Kerr to reduce the lead. Unfortunately though the Spaniards then took control once more, passing with their usual fine precision and with 5 minutes left killed the game off as Eto’o scored another, leaving Dumbarton bottom of the group table – though the capacity crowd still applauded their side off the pitch for trying as hard as they could.

The final home game in Dumbarton’s Champions League run saw Fiorentina visit Cliftonhill another packed crowd awaiting. Whilst Real Madrid had already qualified unfortunately the Italians hadn’t 5 points ahead of Dinamo going into this game and George was aware they’d want to seal it before easing up in their last fixture – which would be against Real Madrid. However George wanted to see his fans enjoy the game more so he promoted an offensive style and encouraged his players to at least give it ago – even if it actually went all tits up in the end. Johnnier Montano scored within 9 minutes as the tone for the game was set and sadly it appeared there would be no let up as Dinamo had taken the lead against a weak Madrid side so Fiorentina refused to let up and Graham Hunter and Monaghan were kept very busy for the rest of the half. In the second, George did encourage the side to play and after the Italians eased up midway through the second, a long ball approach brought some brief exuberance to the home fans as James Hughes equalized, picked out wonderfully by young sub right back James Scott , a player maturing by the minute. Of course that really woke Fiorentina up as news that Madrid were 2-0 down and 2 men down filtered through to them and Berti ruined the moment inside 5 minutes, but still Dumbarton caused problems as Mark Kerr and Hughes again both came close to bringing it back to 2-2 as the fans warmed to this determined effort. It was sad then, to see the visitors wrap up the win with 10 minutes to go through Vicente, as Dumbarton were technically relegated to bottom place in the group – but it had been quite an experience for many of the players nevertheless.

Other Monthly News

As Partick Thistle placed a bid for on loan midfielder Mark Stewart , George thought he should follow suit to nab the left midfielder first and when it came to discussing terms there was no problem and 425,000 pounds later George had a new midfielder. Partick did though manage to prise coach Kenny Deuchar away from his role at Dumbarton – an unfortunate loss from George’s point of view.

In International’s Scotland continued their improved form with a narrow 3-2 victory in Bosnia as Neil Sullivan’s reputation began to increase ever so slightly. Gordon Bennett’s injury against Real Madrid would keep the forward out of action for 2 months now.

[Brian of Nazareth]

November

League

The month began with a tricky test at home to Rangers – and though Dumbarton had picked up confidence after the Motherwell match, the Gers were still a much better side. The 4-4-2 formation remained the same as did the personnel pretty much, but it was a much tougher opening to the game as James Evans was called into action 3 times in the space of as many minutes by Mel Cunningham, the October Player of the Month on fire. Mark Kerr had a brief chance to threaten but his shot sailed high over the bar – and then Rangers scored through Kevin Hardie 5 minutes later. That came 10 minutes before the break and was a blow – even though Tom McManus had a smart shot saved by Steve Crousden. In the second half, the injury to Steve Taylor on the hour mark that saw a triple substitution failed to impact positively on Dumbarton’s chances, though John Jack did see a long range sail past as another defeat beckoned and the brow on George’s forehead contorted itself into a series of divots.

After the midweek game to finish off Dumbarton’s European quest, George decided to bring a couple of fringe players into action for the trip to bottom placed Partick – still very much a must win game to give George some breathing space. Kevin Irvine started, whilst Leigh Burton had a place on the bench. Loan signing Steve Reid also started. A big boost did emerge after 2 minutes when Mark Kerr scored the opening goal of the game – but that did not inspire the away side as George had hoped with the hosts coming back strongly. James Evans quickly beat off chances from Jim Rundqvist and Vidar Hoseth as the hosts began to dominate the play. The concern on George’s face was not without cause as Martin McCabe leveled after 30 minutes. That goal did inspire Partick to continue in that vein and to George’s despair an attack in the 45th minute brought a penalty for Partick and a red card for James Evans . Rundqvist scored and another poor afternoon beckoned for the morose traveling fans. George changed things by reverting to 4-1-3-1 as he attempted to go for broke, whilst bringing on Craig Graham in place of John Jack a decision that would bear fruit later on. In the second, the hosts inevitably started the brighter as they looked to kill off the game, but the sub keeper was more than equal to the task and it gave confidence to Dumbarton once more, Steve Reid going close twice in a short space of time. The longer the game went on, the more George felt his side could actually take something from the game, and to his joy the equalizer finally arrived with only a few minutes left. Kiegan Parker scoring after a fine run from midfield. That was how the game stayed as at least a losing run did not continue but the edginess of the first half showing was clearly affecting a couple of the board of directors who privately began to admit to not feeling as confident in George as they once had, now that he had imposed a Scots only rule on himself – a decision they felt had cost the club dear in the early part of the season.

ICT were the visitors next as the fans sought an improved performance against the team only just above them in the league. A side only changed by the return of left back John Wright to the bench, took to the field in a 4-1-3-2 style once more, as George saw a more positive side take charge of the first half. Colin Yeats was as enterprising as he was infuriating. So many times he won challenges, started fine moves, but at the same he wasted 2 golden chances and Mick Edwards denied Tom McManus and Kiegan Parker near the end of the first half as Dumbarton frustratingly failed to convert their possession into goals. The fans did appreciate the improved tempo though, and as the team came out in the second half, roared on their side. Yet still chances, were going missing as Craig Gordon continued in his role as virtual spectator. On 66 minutes George changed the attack and on 68 minutes Dumbarton had finally broken through – albeit from the spot. Tom McManus was tripped by Edwards, who also received a red card, and the striker scored as a huge sigh of relief followed. That was followed up by more pressure from the strikers as young Leigh Burton almost made an excellent sub impact, whilst Paul Miller continued to his fire his way towards the exit door with more woeful finishing. The win did arrive though as ICT offered nothing in response as Dumbarton moved 11 points clear of Partick – and with 2 games in hand, George hoped he could begin to move towards mid table security.

On the 22nd a trip to Dundee followed as George kept essentially the same side together. Dundee were below Dumbarton so this was definitely a game from which points could be taken, and after the first 45 minutes it seemed even more possible. Little had happened, but Dundee hadn’t troubled Craig Graham , Jim Hunter or even Craig Gordon who was keeping his place in goal despite Evans returning to the frame. The second did see more action as Willie Stewart and Colin Yeats threatened Dundee but there seemed little sign of serious goalmouth action – though referee Bordon Gray turned down a penalty appeal from Colin Yeats with 20 minutes to go, the midfielder claiming a hand ball, but a draw resulted – which still kept George happyish.

[Brian of Nazareth]

On the 26th in midweek a tough trip to 3rd placed Dunfermline arrived, as George looked to keep the unbeaten mini-run continued. With few changes to the line up, Dumbarton began the half in good spirits and actually had the better of the play early on. Steve Reid forced a reflex save from James Langfield before centre half Craig Graham headed over. It was an impressive spell for Dumbarton against a stronger side who were fancied to challenge for the title, but as the alf grew on Dumbarton faded slightly, and with one eye on the dressing room conceded in the 45th minute, as Paul James seemed to have changed the direction of the game. Certainly it appeared as if the hosts would go on and win comfortably as in the second half, Craig Gordon was kept busy with Simon Davies and Andy Mills raining shots on his goal, but Craig was equal to the task and George still believed in his team to get something out of the game if they kept on fighting. Subs were brought on for weary legs with 15 minutes to go and delightedly they had a positive impact, scoring an equalizer within minutes – albeit through very fortuitous circumstances. A loose ball was collcted by Mark Stewart 40 yards out, and the fresh legged midfield saw Willie Stewart in space in the area. Looking to pick him out he chipped the ball forward into the crowd of players. However, the ball went over those players heads, and then that of the surprised James Langfield and into the back of the net for one of the most bizarre goals ever. That stunned the hosts who lost their composure as Dumbarton were suddenly the side more likely to win it, sub Gordon Grant firing a drive into the crossbar late on. A point was the final outcome though and George was very pleased.

At the weekend, to end the month, Dundee United, in 2nd place in the table but very much in indifferent form were the visitors to Cliftonhill. George’s side were in confident mood though as they took to the field. Colin Yeats , Liam Sullivan and youngster Leigh Burton were handed starting roles as George rewarded those who’d worked hard in training. Inside 10 minutes and his decision was justified. A bright opening from Dumbarton saw an early chance fall to Steve Reid . His shot was blocked but the rebound fell to the feet of 17 year old Leigh Burton who smashed it into the net, delightedly celebrating with the fans. After that the half was all one way traffic as Dumbarton were in complete control. Burton and Reid had further chances, whilst Colin Yeats will have rued two great chances to double the lead, as the ultimate weakness in George’s side came to the fore, and it remained 1-0 at the break, with the visitors still very much in it. The second half continued in the same fashion though, chances wasted but possession dominant. After about 20 or so minutes worries began to return as Dundee United picked up their game and looked to punish the hosts, as Craig Gordon was required to keep out successive efforts from Ian Hume and Dennis Overgaard. At this point George made subs and they proved to be timely, helping Dumbarton to re-affirm their footing in this game, as Kiegan Parker and Leigh Burton again were close to putting the game out of sight. They didn’t manage to do so, but in the end just the one proved to be enough as the ref blew up and a happy month for George saw his side pull a little further away from the bottom clubs.

Champions League

The farewell to Europe match was played out in Croatia against NK Dinamo and George decided to hand rare chances to the fringe players. They deserved a taster of the occasion after all. The inexperienced eleven lasted 12 minutes before Damir Pincic scored for the hosts, and the Croatians dominated the remainder of the half. In the second a fantastic moment arrived for young 17 year old Leigh Burton as the half time sub, eagerly collected a ball from Gordon Grant to level with Dumbarton’s first shot of the game, and there was no suppressing the joy felt by the striker who grabbed his first goal for the club, but the hosts were swiftly back in front and from then on, there was a familiar ring of the first half about. Another goal late on killing off the match.

Other Monthly News

At the beginning George was thrilled to tie James Scott on a new contract that relinquished his minimum fee release clause making the 17 year old a more permanent member of the side. Steve Taylor was sidelined for 3 months after a coming off the worse for wear in a clash against Rangers at the beginning of the month.

Blackburn midfielder Steve Reid arrived on a 2-month loan to add a little grit to the midfield. Brian King , scoreless this campaign was placed on the transfer list and told to train with the youths as a punishment for turning out to be truly rubbish. A few Spanish sides, which clearly had morons for scouts actually expressed tentative interest – and being a rather cunning sort, George informed them Brian was on the list as he wanted a new challenge – preferably in sunnier climes.

Towards the end Leeds did most Scottish clubs a favour and signed Mel Cunningham from Rangers. George just hoped there would be no replacement.

[Brian of Nazareth]

December

League

Celtic hosted a resurgent Dumbarton side on the 7th and with quite a few games in hand, George believed his side could pick up a result against an ordinary Celtic side in 5th spot in the table. However after 10 minutes, it was clearly not going to be the case. Mark Koeman had handed the hosts the lead and they were all over Dumbarton, dominating every area of the park, and when a second arrived before half time, George actually felt the need to make a triple substitution then to halt the slaughter. The second half proved marginally more successful in that Celtic didn’t score, but even so they had still been completely outplayed in the game with only the 3 James’ to come out with any credit ( Evans, Scott, McFadden )

On Saturday 13th it was 4th placed Hibs who came to visit as George looked to get some revenge after the last meeting. John Jack lined up against his old side alongside Kiegan Parker whilst Keith MacLeod came back into the side – the midfielder currently being wooed by Dundee. A strong start saw an early chance propel Dumbarton on their way happily enough as John Jack scored, heading home a Keith MacLeod corner. MacLeod really began to show signs of how he had developed since he too departed Hibs, with a highly energetic display in midfield, causing Steven Robinson the Hibs right back a great deal of problems. He also played the ball through 15 minutes later to Kiegan Parker who was then taken roughly from behind by Trinidad and Tobagan goalkeeper C.T. Bowsley, and Liam Sullivan put the ball away, as Dumbarton also had a man advantage now with 65 minutes to go. Mark Kerr and Steve Reid then could have killed the game off before half time, but didn’t and Hibs were still in it at half time. After the break, they came out focused and determined to attack a complacent Dumbarton side, and they should have scored long before they did, not reducing the arrears until the 68th minute through Jason Collins. That woke Dumbarton up thankfully and by upping the tempo, the 10 men of Hibs were unable to keep up with the pace and the hosts comfortably played out the last few minutes to secure the win.

After a midweek home game against Dunfermline was postponed for bad weather it was onto the road again and a trip north to face Aberdeen on the 20th. Aberdeen had started reasonably well, but after 4 defeats and 1 draw in their last 5 games, they had slid down the table, just below Dumbarton before the weekend action. James Hughes replaced Kiegan Parker up front whilst John Wright came in at left back. An even first few minutes changed when a former Dumbarton youth player John Scott scored for Aberdeen in the 24th minute, leaving James Evans no chance, and then the hosts took charge until half time, as Adrian Foster should have done better when put clear. In the dressing room, George simply told his players to take the game to the hosts, as their confidence was quite low and make a few risks here and there. It worked as the in form Keith MacLeod played a starring role in changing the game round once more. Firstly, by scoring 4 minutes after the restart, from a scramble and then taking Tom McManus’ ball in his stride to put Dumbarton ahead, and the hosts spirit was weakening. From George’s point of view he was glad his side showed some ruthlessness in front of goal for a change as they did not succumb to complacency, and as the half neared it’s end John Jack turned up the heat with his best display since arriving from Celtic. He made it 3-1 on 70 minutes firing home a free kick he himself had won, and then 4 minutes later he beat Lee Crew all ends up with a long range stunner that had the away section in a party mood, as a very emphatic win was sealed. Dumbarton were now 8th and 17 points above Partick.

Because of fixture congestion the next match, to be played on Christmas Eve was actually a home match with none other than Aberdeen and obviously Dumbarton were far the more confident side. George was about to bring in new legs for the game when a sudden snowstorm meant yet another postponed fixture, and Dumbarton still held two games in hand, and Dumbarton were instead preparing for a boxing day game at table toppers Rangers – with the bookies refusing to take any more bets on the home side winning. They unsurprisingly controlled much of the first half but couldn’t break through a tough defense for a long time. On 40 minutes John Jack actually thought he had scored a shock opener, only to be left frustrated by the linesman’s raised flag. 4 minutes later and Helio did score to George’s annoyance. In the second half, George made 2 changes and his side did play some good football, creating a few chances for Mark Stewart and James Hughes . More pressure was applied but to no avail and a yellow card for Craig Graham would see the centre half miss another game through penalty points, before the full time whistle sounded. A defeat was no shock, but at least the performance was substantially better this time.

At home to Motherwell was the final match of the calendar year and it was one for which George finally remembered Gordon Bennett, a player he’d accidently moved down to the reserves some time ago and forgotten all about for several weeks. The game was all set for kick off when the bright sunshine was replaced within seconds by a rather unfortunate spell fo acid rain and yet another game was cancelled, to George’s intense frustration – this backlog would cause a tiring end of season run for Dumbarton.

[Brian of Nazareth]

Cups

League Cup

the month kicked off at Ibrox where Rangers hosted Dumbarton in the quarter finals stage of the cup – and George wasn’t sure how to approach. Good league form would be the priority but it was whether he could rest a few players that bugged him. As usual another bout of who was the fittest for the match in question was in order. After 7 minutes Carlos scored for Rangers as the hosts seemed to take the immediate initiative, but only 10 minutes later, it swung again as Steve Crousden was dismissed and James McFadden dispatched the resulting penalty to tie it up. From this point on George felt his side had a strong chance of causing an upset. It was still an even game but Dumbarton were not being outplayed. In the second, Colin Yeats and James Hughes both went close but failed to extend the lead, and those misses haunted George as Rangers won the contest late on, with an 88th minute penalty, John Wright the culprit handballing it.

Other Monthly News

Killing some spare time, George carefully pled through his long list of players to keep abreast of, and 1 by 1 removed all the non Scots from the list, reducing the overall total quite substantially, enough even to start a little fire in the corner of his office.

Leigh Burton signed a new contract that also removed his minimum fee release clause – replaced instead by a relegation one and George was confident enough in his side to feel that was merely an irrelevance. Craig Gordon signed a 1 year extension to his contract, awarded after impressive displays recently, whilst coach Dougie Todd signed a new deal to keep him at the club until 2024.

Brian King was moved out this month, moving to the complete unknown in the far east and Verdy Kawasaki in Japan for 160,000 pounds. Mark Dempsie extended his stay beyond the summer for one more year. James Hughes was finally transfer listed after a large number of fans on radio phones admitted he was completely useless too and should follow Brian King out of the door to raise funds for a competent replacement.

[Brian of Nazareth]

January 2015

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">

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Scottish Premier Division - Wednesday 7th January 2015

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================================================================================================

2014/5 Table

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Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

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1st Rangers 24 8 3 1 22 9 7 4 1 12 7 52

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2nd Dunfermline 23 7 5 0 20 8 4 5 2 14 13 43

3rd Dundee Utd 24 5 3 3 16 11 5 5 3 22 19 38

4th Celtic 24 6 3 3 21 9 5 1 6 15 16 37

5th Hibs 24 8 0 4 14 8 4 1 7 14 23 37

6th Motherwell 23 7 2 3 21 12 2 3 6 8 16 32

7th Aberdeen 23 5 2 5 12 10 4 1 6 11 12 30

8th Kilmarnock 24 6 1 5 15 20 3 2 7 7 15 30

9th Dumbarton 21 6 1 2 13 6 2 3 7 14 19 28

10th Dundee 23 4 4 4 6 6 2 2 7 7 13 24

11th Inverness C. Thistle 24 5 3 4 13 10 1 3 8 4 14 24

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12th Partick Thistle 23 3 4 5 17 23 0 1 10 4 23 14

</pre>

[Brian of Nazareth]

League

This month there would be no real winter break for George as his side would catch up on the games missed. The first, on the 7th saw them host Dunfermline. The only other encounter this season had seen a decent away draw, and though the visitors were on a decent unbeaten run George fancied his side to give them a good game. Craig Gordon and Gordon Bennett were back in the starting line up. After a close opening few moments that saw Bennett go close for the hosts, it was the Pars who took the initiative and a stranglehold on the game as Andy Mills scored on 24 minutes. That goal was then soon followed up by Aaron Cable and the visitors were firmly in control. At the break George tried to change things up, but it seemed hopeless as they just weren’t good enough. Willie Stewart did manage to score one midway through the half, connecting with a Keith MacLeod cross but that was as good as it got for the hosts as a disappointing defeat cancelled out one of Dumbarton’s games.

The next in a triple run of home games saw the visit of Aberdeen and George hoped his side would return to the form that defeated them 4-1 the previous month. After only 2 minutes and Mark Kerr replaced an injured Mark Stewart before a customary session of who can miss the goal by the greatest distance began amongst the Dumbarton lads. Bennett made a decent stab at 30 yards before Colin Yeats set a club record, ballooning the ball out of the stadium to the ironic applause of the fans. Thankfully as Aberdeen began to test Evans with a few long range efforts, Colin did find the net on 30 minutes, intercepting a weak pass to drive it home and hand Dumbarton the lead. The visitors though were a stronger side to the one that caved last time round and fought back strongly – as Evans earned his keep with several sharp shots. 1-0 at half time and George was aware the game could go either way so he instructed his men to start positively in the second so as not to let Aberdeen pick up a rhythm. Initial signs weren’t great as Bjornar Amundsen and Jesus Ruyman Ceballos Silva both went close again. The hosts did gather themselves though, and aided by the welcome introduction of sub John Jack pressed forward, eventually making their chances count this time, as Jack made it 2 with 10 minutes to go, after Kiegan Parker picked him out perfectly. That killed off the away side’s spirit and the win lifted Dumbarton into 7th, right behind Motherwell in 6th who also happened to be the next opponents in the league.

No weather was going to postpone the Motherwell game the following week, with the sky blue and the air cool, as George restored John Jack and Steven Monaghan to the starting line up. The match began superbly for the hosts as John Jack finished off an excellent run from Willie Stewart in the eleventh minute, and then after a period of Motherwell pressure that saw Martin Gallagher and Dennis Dindic go very close to leveling, John Wright sent in a beautiful free kick that Jack stole in to score from and it was 2-0 to Dumbarton at half time, the side in a strong position to go on and win the game. Of course it wasn’t quite that simple – Motherwell had in fact played very good football in that half and had threatened to score on a few occasions. George made a change to the side’s style in the second half but it proved to be a failure as the visitors came back to score twice. The first came after 58 minutes when Dave Skinner reduced the lead, and then on 75 minutes Martin Gallagher looked to have earned his side a point with a 20 yard free kick. It was then that George made his final substitution and to the delight of the crowd it proved to be an excellent one. Stephen Monaghan took the ball down the right flank in the 89th minute as the hosts sought a winner, before floating a ball into the danger zone. Many players on both sides missed it altogether. One didn’t – and fortunately it was young Leigh Burton the sub winning another game for Dumbarton and really beginning to make a name for himself as his side moved into 6th spot in the league.

In midweek all the clubs were back in action again, and George was traveling to Kilmarnock, a side in 9th place, believing that their extra games over the break would prove to be an advantage. An unchanged side started the better side as Kilmarnock struggled to keep up with the early pace, the break making a few players a little slower now. Kiegan Parker volleyed over the bar and James McFadden shot straight at Petter Westerberg. But those let offs allowed Kilmarnock to steadily improve and Hector Cures will have rued his 3 wild efforts, as the score remained goalless at half time. In the second the hosts began brighter and took the lead on 62 minutes through Simon Smart, their forward on loan from Watford. George then brought on Gordon Bennett for Mark Kerr and the striker made a point to his manager with 2 goals in 2 minutes that swiftly changed the game in George’s favour. The first came from a Willie Stewart corner. Bennett’s initial header was parried but the forward was on hand to tuck home the rebound. 2 minutes later Mark Stewart sent a fine 30 yard cross field pass into Bennett’s run and it was 2-1, and the home side were flagging. George felt confident enough to bring on youngsters Burton and Irvine as a confident side saw out an excellent victory that pushed Dumbarton into 5th on goal difference, and suddenly the media were coming out with a few compliments after initially scoffing at George’s idealistic plans at the beginning of the season.

[Brian of Nazareth]

Cup

Scottish Cup

The 3rd round saw George face a tricky trip to Dunfermline, a side who had outplayed them already this month at Cliftonhill. George wanted to focus on the league so anyone who needed more time to recover was given it and starts were awarded to: Mark Dempsie, Colin Yeats, Jim Wilson and Leigh Burton . A feisty opening say Burton booked, and then he almost scored with his first shot of the game, a volley from 12 yards as James Langfield dove to his right. After telling his players to calm down, George was pleased to see his side playing well. On half an hour his players deservedly took the lead as Leigh Burton saw his shot deflect in off of Bob O’Connell, who had only just replaced injured defender Mark Burke. Dunfermline really seemed out of sorts and at half time, George reminded his players they had an excellent chance of progressing to the next round as long as they kept their focus. 6 minutes into the second half and the hosts could have scored 3 times thanks to slack marking as George tore his hair out. He then replaced Burton with John Jack to add some experience and quality up front. He only saw a little of the ball though as the hosts really began to up the tempo in search of an equalizer. With 20 minutes to go, then got, thanks to a penalty conceded by Steven Monaghan . David Rainford leveled and the game became a 50-50 affair as Dumbarton also upped their game to try and seek a late winner. Subs Gordon Grant and Kiegan Parker both had chances but a replay was the end result.

Other Monthly News

James Hughes left to join Plymouth in England after the clubs agreed a 275,000 pound fee, money that would most certainly be useful in bringing through better replacements. At the end of the month James Scott was loaned out to St. Mirren for the final months of the season to give the kid regular action at a slightly lower level, whilst Gordon Strachan finally left Coventry City, becoming the new Rangers manager.

[Brian of Nazareth]

February

League

After the 3rd round replay Dumbarton faced a home clash with Partick Thistle a side still desperate for points, 8 points shy of 11th placed ICT. George had to make numerous changes to his side and included some more youngsters on the bench as several key players were rested. That decision proved to be a terrible one as a disastrous spell in the first half saw Partick take a 3 goal lead in 4 minutes. Jim Rundqvist, Leon Burton and Eric Cloarec all beating Craig Gordon with ease as the defense went on holiday. The fans booed or left and George was shocked. Knowing the game was lost anyway he brought on the youngsters to at least give them a game – their determination levels were a lot higher than those who walked off at half time. Scott McPherson replaced John Jack and Mark Currie the young right back replaced Thomas Craig . They did marginally better but everyone knew the game was over and the second half was crap. Dumbarton dropped back into 6th again.

On the 11th Dundee, lying 9th came to visit as George hoped to improve on a shocking performance against Partick. Changes were made were possible, though Mark Currie kept his right back slot as Monaghan was injured. After 6 minutes it seemed as though a better game would follow as Currie scored his first senior goal from a goalmouth scramble. However after that it all went pear shaped. Bookings were picked up all over the place and the passing was abysmal. Dundee deservedly equalized and then went in front before half time – with Marcus Charles and Scott Davison scoring. George went crazy at half time asking for his players to remember what their job was, before replacing more lethargic players with other subs but they made little impression. Kiegan Parker, Mark Stewart and Mark Kerr all wasted fine chances. Craig Graham then damaged the hosts chances further by receiving a second yellow card and picking up his second red card of the season. Dundee then took control and saw out the game as 2 very, very poor home games had seen 2 defeats with Dumbarton slipping back to 7th. Given the opposition were two strugglers George was furious with his side, injuries or not, the performances had been atrocious.

The final day of the month saw a trip to Hibs as a miserable month neared it’s conclusion. George had no optimism about getting anything from the game and a crap first half confirmed that. In a 3 minute spell Hibs went 3-0 up, with Derek Anderson and Tony Bradley the scorers. Colin Yeats grabbed a fluke response before half time, but George was so fed up he refused to speak to his players at half time, instead making a random triple substitution before buggering off into Edinburgh to do some shopping. He found out later the result ended 5-1 – with an own goal from Willie Stewart and Danny Booth completing a perfect month. Steven Monaghan back from injury got sent off as Dumbarton’s woes continued. The side remained firmly in 7th as the top 5 opened up a 7 point gap.

[Brian of Nazareth]

Scottish Cup

The 3rd round replay against Dunfermline kicked off the month as George hoped for better success. Changes were made to ensure a maximum strength side in terms of energy, with John Jack replacing Burton up front. Willie Stewart came in for Jim Wilson . The game saw a both sides have plenty of chances in an end-to-end start but midway through the goals and incidents arrived. Firstly Simon Davies put Dunfermline ahead before the momentum turned 5 minutes later when James Langfield was dismissed for a professional foul and Gordon Bennett converted. The rest of the half saw Dunfermline playing to survive until half time- which they did. In the second George made 3 changes to try and force a winner, but neither Parker or McManus were able to make an impact and when Kevin Irvine departed injured it was 10 v 10 for the final minutes and extra time beckoned. It arrived and Dunfermline performed the better, lifted by the fact they had survived 60 minutes more or less a man short. For Dumbarton Steven Monaghan was injured as George lost both his wingbacks, but no goals arrived, and the tie would be decided on penalty kicks.

Round 1: Gordon Bennett goes first for Dumbarton and scores. Andy Mills confidently does the same. 1-1

Round 2: Willie Stewart makes it 2-1 with a powerful effort bu David Munro brings it back all square, sending Evans the wrong way. 2-2

Round 3: James Evans takes the crucial third, and after pausing to stare at the Dunfermline fans jeering him, placed the ball the right side of the left post to make it 3-2. Mick Daly for Dunfermline ran quickly but pushed it past the post and it was advantage Dumbarton. 3-2

Round 4: Thomas McManus remained calm to ensure Jamie Newman had to score to keep the tie alive. The midfielder who had never taken a spot kick in his professional career, appeared nervous as he placed the ball on the spot. Electing to take a long run up, the midfielder was going for power – and it was a hard hit – that sailed wide! Dumbarton were through to the 4th round.

A tie at mid table Division 1 side Livingston was next and George badly wanted a win to lift spirits after poor league form. An attempt to score in both halves failed, as Livingston contained them very well and even had a few chances of their own. Evans and MacLeod starred in an otherwise dull affair.

The replay on the final Wednesday of the month proved to be a far more exciting affair after only 10 minutes. Steve Taylor crossed for James McFadden to head in after 3 minutes – but the lead lasted barely a minute as shoddy defending allowed Paul Kerr to score. 5 minutes later though and the lead was restored as Colin Yeats fired in a ferocious effort from a Mark Stewart nod down as an electric atmosphere developed within the stadium. The hardy fans who had braved the cold weather at least plenty to keep them entertained. There followed a period of more end to end play which both pleased George for all the chances created but worried him that a division 1 side were being allowed so much space and time with the ball. That concern was realized as Steve Wood scored in the 60th minute to square it up and more turgid play allowed the visitors to score a winner with 10 minutes remaining through Wood as George threw a tantrum, screaming blue words at his players, throwing water bottles at their faces and kicking the sideboards with intense anger. Those sods were going on a 10 mile run that night, and the following morning.

Other Monthly News

George won the January Manager of the Month award, thanks in part to the fact his side had played far more games than the others but also because they had performed well, climbing into the top half. Also credited with helping this rise was James Evans who was awarded the Player of the Month Award.

Midway through the month a few players made comments to the press about training routines, whilst the SFA threatened George with a misconduct charge if he didn’t keep piping on about the quality of the referees in his recent games, something that saw his reputation slide a little.