Saturday 6th May 2017
DESPITE a last minute goal from Falkirk consigning them to a 1-0 defeat on the day, part-time heroes Dumbarton have proudly retained their status in the Scottish Championship.
The pressure was mainly from the Bairns for the first 20 minutes, with Nathan Austin and Luke Leahy coming closest for the away side.
Shortly afterwards Sons attacked down the right and Robert Thomson got on the end of Lewis Vaughan’s cross, just clipping the bar.
The momentum stayed with Falkirk after the break, but Dumbarton remained disciplined and resolute in defence.
A great chance fell to Sons on 67 minutes, as Sam Stanton played in Vaughan. But the ball flew over the bar.
Then on 85 minutes the Bairns broke through. A miscue at the back gave a close range header to Austin, providing the visitors with a late lead.
Dumbarton pushed back, but there was to be no equaliser. However, as referee Don Robertson blew the final whistle, Sons fans flooded to the front of the stand to acclaim their team loud and long.
After a hard fought campaign, Dumbarton can now celebrate staying in the Ladbrokes SPFL Championship for another season.
The Sonstrust Man of the Match was Robert Thomson, chosen by John and Mary Gillies.
Full match report, comment, and Sons TV to follow. Match photos now online.
Simon Barrow