Saturday 27th April 2013
DUMBARTON supporters, players, staff and directors were in celebratory mood in Fife this afternoon, as a 3-2 win over Cowdenbeath finally secured the team’s First Division status.
Some 200 enthusiastic Sons fans had come to Central Park for today’s crucial game. A number travelled from afar for the event, including one from St Albans.
After going behind, Dumbarton stormed back in the game to lead 3-1 at half time, easing to victory in the second half – despite some anxious moments and a late second goal from Cowden.
Following the final whistle, the players came across the pitch to applaud and thank the large band of loyal supporters on the terraces.
Manager Ian Murray, who has played a big role in securing part-time Dumbarton’s survival in the predominantly full-time second tier of Scottish football, paid tribute to the effort of all concerned in his own post-match interview.
“I’m ecstatic we’ve managed to secure our status,” he declared. “We had five points when I started. We’ve now got 42 points. It’s an incredible achievement.”
The “Sons Are Staying Up” party was already in full swing this evening, and will continue at the Rock next Saturday, when the visitors for the final game of a tumultuous season are newly crowned champions Partick Thistle.
Eight supporters from Switzerland will be flying in specially for the occasion, hoping to see Dumbarton end the 2012/13 campaign on a victorious note.
Sons are now guaranteed seventh place in the First Division. They can finish sixth if they win their one remaining game and Raith Rovers do not win theirs.
The Partick match is all-ticket. Prices are £15 for adults and £8 for concessions. Normal access arrangements will apply for season ticket holders. Both hospitality and the evening ‘Party At The Rock’ are now sold out.
Simon Barrow