Friday 6th October 2017
DUMBARTON eased into the quarter-finals of the Irn Bru Cup at the YOUR Radio 103FM Stadium this evening, winning 2-1 despite a good display from League One opponents Stranraer.
After getting the better of the opening exchanges and missing a couple of chances, Sons opened their account on 13 minutes with a well taken, low, angled drive from Craig Barr.
On 32 minutes home keeper Scott Gallacher had to be replaced by Jamie Ewings, unable to shake off his injury 10 minutes beforehand.
Stranraer showed determination in the midfield battle for much of the half, but Dumbarton looked dangerous on the break.
The visitors continued their pressure after the break, keeping the ball in Sons’ half for long periods of time.
Then on 65 minutes, and against the run of play, Dumbarton stole a second goal.
A great cross from Tom Walsh picked out Mark Stewart, who headed confidently home.
It was millimetres from being three for Sons on 80 minutes, but somehow Stranraer managed to clear Dimitris Froxylias’ side-footed shot of the line.
In the third minute of time added on Stranraer pulled a headed consolation goal back from substitute Stephen Okah.
The win puts Dumbarton into the quarter-finals of the Irn Bru Cup. The draw for the final eight will take place on Tuesday 10th October.
Full match report to follow. Match photos, reaction and SonsTV coverage now online.
Simon Barrow