Saturday 16th February 2013
IT was a case of ‘so near, but so far’ for Dumbarton away in Kirkcaldy this afternoon, as Raith Rovers stole the game 3-2 in time added on to claim all three points.
A Sons team featuring five changes as a result of injuries, suspensions and squad additions came from behind twice to level the game. But in the end it was not quite enough to secure what would have been a creditable draw.
Allan Walker gave the home side the lead on 39 minutes, after Dumbarton had enjoyed more possession and chances in the opening spell.
But goal hero Bryan Prunty lifted the spirits of the vocal travelling support with an equaliser just before the break.
In the second half Raith Rovers grabbed the lead back at 2-1 on 52 minutes through Pat Clarke, only for Prunty to step up again six minutes later to make it 2-2.
It looked as if that would be the final result until Brian Graham took advantage of a defensive slip in the third minute of added time to secure Raith Rovers the 3-2 win.
Despite the disappointment, it was another courageous display from Sons, with debutants Stuart Urquhart and Nick Phinn putting in good shifts. “We gave everything in the game,” said gaffer Ian Murray afterwards.
Dumbarton now face Falkirk on Saturday 23 February in the first of three consecutive fixtures at the Bet Butler Stadium.
Full match report and photos now online.
Simon Barrow