Sunday 20th May 2012
A FANTASTIC finale to the 2011/12 season has seen Dumbarton claim a rightful place in the Irn Bru SFL First Division with a convincing 4-1 victory over Airdrie United at New Broomfield.
Sons won the promotion play-off final 6-2 on aggregate with another commanding display backed by a large, deliriously happy travelling support, who chanted and cheered their heroes to victory.
A confident first half display saw the men from the Rock rapidly move into a 2-0 lead thanks to a well-taken brace of goals from Craig Dargo on 9 and 21 minutes.
Airdrie United hit back on 35 minutes after Derek Holmes stabbed the ball into the net after a goalmouth scramble following a corner. However, Dumbarton steadied the ship and could have added further to the scoreline.
Near half time there was a crucial moment when the Diamonds failed to take advantage of a free-kick 20 yards out in a central position.
Sons pressed their advantage in the third minute of time added on, when Tony Wallace set up Mark Gilhaney to make it 3-1 for Dumbarton at the break.
In the second half, Airdrie United needed to push forward, but risked leaving themselves even more vulnerable at the back. Sure enough, Tony Wallace exploited a gap and sealed Dumbarton’s promotion with a sweetly struck goal on 65 minutes, giving the visitors and unassailable 4-1 lead on the day.
Airdrie United’s misery was complete when substitute Jamie Bain was sent off on 80 minutes for a bad foul on Sons’ James Creaney.
There was a celebration back at Dumbarton Football Stadium this evening, and the partying went well into the night for joyous Sons fans.
Match photos now online. Full report and SonsPlayer coverage from Gary Black to follow.
Simon Barrow