Saturday 14th July 2018
DUMBARTON claimed their first two points in the Betfred Cup after a goalless stalemate and penalty shootout win against top Lowland League side Spartans in Edinburgh.
Sons bossed the first 30 minutes, but enjoyed only half chances while protecting against counter attacks from the home side.
On 21 minutes Dumbarton had the ball in the net through Iain Russell, but the assistant referee’s flag was already up for offside.
The stalemate continued into the second half, when Spartans, on the back foot for the duration of the first period, began to press.
Sons started to thread the ball together far better as the half progressed. But there were chances at each end. Cennerazo was denied by Sons, and then Paton was off balance for one of several late opportunities for the visitors.
Both sides took a point from the 0-0 draw before the tie went to penalties for an additional point.
In the end it was two fine penalty saves by Grant Adam that gave Dumbarton two out of three points in their first Betfred Cup group game.
Full match report, photos and reaction now online.
Simon Barrow