Tuesday 23rd July 2019
DUMBARTON’S Betfred Cup Group E campaign concludes tonight with a challenging match against Premiership side Motherwell at the C&G Systems Stadium.
After two punishing results against Morton and Queen of the South in the last week, Sons are hopeful of restoring some pride against the Steelmen.
And with the next competitive fixture, at home to Raith Rovers, another 11 days away, manager Jim Duffy is looking for an all-out effort tonight.
He said: “The last week has been very tough for us and it is not going to get any easier tonight with the visit of a top flight team.
“However, I do not want us throwing in the towel, which we did not do against Queen of the South on Saturday despite the early concessions.
“I want us to be competing from first whistle to last and whatever the result, we must leave the field knowing that we have given everything we can.
“Posting a result will be very tough, but would be a great way to respond to the setbacks we have had in the last couple of games.”
The manager had to substitute Ryan Tierney and Stuart Carswell due to minor injuries on Saturday while Jordan McMillan also had a knock.
All three are hopeful of making the squad tonight, as is Conor Scullion, but Isaac Layne and Rory Loy remain on the sidelines.
Colin Steven will referee tonight’s game, with Stuart Stevenson and Kevin McElhinney in assistance.
Admission to tonight’s game is pay at the gate – not all-ticket – with prices £12 for adults and £6 for concessions.
Fans are asked to refer to our previous story on arrangements for access.
Tonight’s game is the first competitive meeting of the sides in 21 years, when Motherwell won 1-0 in a Scottish Cup replay at Fir Park. The teams had drawn 1-1 at Boghead Park three days earlier.
If they finish level again tonight, the game will go to penalties for a bonus point.
Andy Galloway