Sunday 8th August 2021
FOR the last month, it’s been one big game of patience for Callum Erskine.
Ever since Dumbarton’s competitive season started, he’s had to wait his turn for a place in the starting XI.
But Sam Ramsbottom’s unfortunate need to isolate was to his team-mate’s gain, as he got a chance to impress in yesterday’s game against Airdrieonians.
He was beaten twice by Diamonds players, one of those being from the penalty spot, before Sons rallied to take a point.
It was a dramatic first day with the starting gloves for Callum, who joined during the close season after leaving Stenhousemuir.
Speaking to www.dumbartonfootballclub.com, Callum said: “I’m delighted to have made my first start. It was a tricky game to get into but as it went on I felt more and more comfortable.
“We showed what we can do after going 2-0 down and rallying to get a draw. Airdrie went down to 10 men but that can be hard as well. We could have nicked the win at the end.
“Sam is a great keeper, and he and Eric (Phillips, goalkeeping coach) have been brilliant with me in training since I came here.
“They talk to me a lot about different aspects of the game and I’ve learned a lot from them during my time with the club.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time here so far and everybody has been brilliant. I couldn’t have asked for any more and I’m really enjoying my football.”
Callum is set to retain his place in the starting line-up for Wednesday’s SPFL Trust Trophy first round tie against Rangers B.
Sam’s isolation is then due to end ahead of the next league outing, away to Queen’s Park, but Callum hopes to make it an interesting battle for the place between the Firhill posts.
He added: “I’m looking forward to Wednesday. It will be another tricky game and we know what we’re going to get. We’ll just prepare for that and hopefully go through to the next round.
“Although Sam could be back after that I definitely hope I can stay in the team. I want to be playing every game.
“That’s how footballers need to be – if you don’t want to be playing, you shouldn’t be in the game.”
Andy Galloway