Friday 28th June 2013
SUMMER football in the shape of Sons first pre-season friendly arrives at the Bet Butler Stadium tomorrow when 12/13 Scottish Cup finalists Hibernian FC visit.
It’s an early start for both teams with Dumbarton providing opposition for the Edinburgh club’s preparations relating to their attempt at progressing in the Europa League which starts on July 18.
The link between the two clubs is there via Sons gaffer Ian Murray who is a former captain of Hibs and a diehard Easter Road fan, plus defender Scott Smith who was freed by the Leith team in the summer.
Hibs boss Pat Fenlon will be looking for a good workout for his squad before they head off to their European week long training camp in Gibraltar where they will play two games on 3rd July and again on 6th July.
With Ian Murray still on holiday (although he’ll be back in the dugout come game time tomorrow), assistant manager Jack Ross has been in charge and overseeing Sons first week back at training.
He said: “Myself and the coaching staff are really impressed by the condition the players have returned to training in.
“It’s testament to how they have looked after themselves during the close season, and their desire to build on last season’s achievements.
“Some players are still absent due to holidays but we are confident that they will join us in a similar condition as they are already training.
“The Hibs game provides a very early pre-season challenge but is one which undoubtedly excites the players.
“We will train in the morning prior to the match and utilise the full squad available throughout the game.”
Sons boss Ian Murray in his Hibs playing days
Team News: New signing Scott Linton will miss tomorrow’s game due to holiday commitments but as many of the squad as possible who are available will be used in the match.
Admission Prices: Season tickets for tonorrow’s game are NOT valid and entry prices are as follows : £10 for adults and £5 for concessions.
Season Tickets 13/14: If you have not yet bought or collected your season ticket for the campaign ahead, you can do so tomorrow from 11am.
Boardroom: We welcome the officials of Hibernian Football Club to Dumbarton FC and hope they have an enjoyable first visit to the Bet Butler Stadium.
Chivas Suite: With no lunch packages tomorrow, the Chivas Suite will be open to Hibs fans to enjoy a pre-match drink, with gates opening at 1.15pm. All welcome.
Supporters Bar: The usual facilities for Sons fans will be available tomorrow including big screen TV and pool table. Sonstrust members can also renew their shareholding for the season ahead.
Match Hospitality 13/14: Packages are available for the season ahead, with prices starting at £40 per person. Contact Alan Findlay for further details.
Sons View: Copies of our matchday magazine the ‘Sons View’ (produced by the Sons Supporters Trust) will be on sale priced £2.
Half-Time Draw: 50/50 half-time draw tickets are available from sellers throughout the stadium, priced £1 each.
Keep YOUR Stadium Tidy: Please use waste bins to deposit ALL rubbish.
Alan Findlay