Friday 2nd December 2022
DUMBARTON play their last away game of the first half of the league season tomorrow, making their first ever league visit to New Dundas Park to play Bonnyrigg Rose.
We have of course visited the ground before, in the 2016/17 Scottish Cup, but this will be our first visit since Bonnyrigg’s promotion into the cinch SPFL at the end of last season.
It promises to be another challenge for Sons, who are looking to retain top spot in cinch League Two come close of play, with a greater cushion if possible.
Manager Stevie Farrell, though, is only too aware of how tough the home side will make it.
He said: “Bonnyrigg gave us a tough game at home, which we narrowly won, earlier this season and we expect another test tomorrow.
“But we head into it off the back of beating higher division opposition in a cup competition for the second time this season, so we should be confident.
“If we play as well as we know we can, and put chances away when they come along, we will give ourselves every opportunity of securing top spot for another round of fixtures.
“However, everything will have to be right. We must be switched on from the start, as we know Bonnyrigg need the points themselves and will want to make use of home advantage. We must be ready, and I am confident we will be.”
A late decision will be made on whether Gregor Buchanan can play tomorrow, although he has been recovering well from the head knock he sustained against Clyde.
Every care must be taken after a head injury, and no risks will be taken if there is any doubt. Declan Byrne and John Gemmell also remain on the sidelines.
Michael Garrity (pictured) returns to the squad, having missed the Clyde game due to the terms of his loan from Morton.
Admission to the game tomorrow costs £12 for adults and £7 for concessions (ages 12-16, over-65s, disabled and carers). Under-12s are free with a paying adult, and entry is by cash at the turnstile.
The supporters’ bus will leave Church Street in Dumbarton Town Centre at noon. To register interest in any available seats, contact Gillie Brough on Facebook Messenger, or by calling 07948 532539.
Bonnyrigg are ninth in cinch League Two going into tomorrow’s game. Their last outing was a 1-1 draw away to Stenhousemuir two weeks ago – they had no fixture last weekend.
Ex-Dumbarton striker Kevin Smith is their top goalscorer this season, with five goals to his name in the league and seven all competitions.
If you cannot make the trip to New Dundas Park, then keep up to date on the game with live commentary on our Twitter feed @dumbartonfc.
Calum Scott will referee tomorrow’s game, assisted by Colin Drummond and Jamie Andrews.