Saturday 4th May 2019
“SURVIVED.”
John Steele may not have envisaged saying that word with such relief, in relation to Dumbarton’s league finish, when the season kicked off back in August.
But it is with relief that he does.
Sons will be in League One again next season, and the club’s chairman paid tribute to all those involved in ensuring as such.
At the end of a frustrating season, John admits that tomorrow’s trip to Arbroath may bring about thoughts of what might have been.
But as they say, there is always next season – and the club intends to move forward.
Speaking exclusively to www.dumbartonfootballclub.com, John said: “We are delighted we have done that, and I have to put on record my appreciation to Jim Duffy for all that he has achieved.
“When we were bottom of the league, at that stage, the reality had to be that we were aiming for a top four place, but mainly for survival in the division.
“The run of results in February and March offered some hope that we could pull off a top four finish, but if we are being pragmatic, survival was the aim.
“The target for next year is to be in the play-offs, at least.
“Undoubtedly, Saturday may be a feeling of what might have been. What if we had not been sabotaged by injuries?
“I am going over old ground but it was the injuries that held us back. There are also some other things which, with the benefit of hindsight, we would have done differently.
“Myself and the board have learned from the experience of this and we hope to use the experience to our advantage next year.”
And John had special words for one other group of people.
He added: “The fans’ input is vital. I’ve been greatly encouraged by the support that I have had, and I genuinely mean that.
“The way I have been received and supported from you all is one of the things that encourages me to carry on. And I am going to carry on. Had I not had the fans’ support, I would not be carrying on.”
Andy Galloway