Saturday 7th January 2017
DUMBARTON played resolutely in a spirited battle with Greenock Morton this afternoon, but were eventually undone by a hotly disputed spot-kick, going down 2-1.
The game started with pace, energy, aggression and plenty of pressure from a resilient looking home side.
Sons began to press back and came close when Josh Todd just failed to connect with a fierce Andy Stirling cross.
Then on 19 mins Morton went 1-0 in front. Nesbitt cracked the ball across goal, it took a touch off Gregor Buchanan and went in.
Minutes later Dumbarton ‘keeper Alan Martin, having blocked Ross Forbes’ low drive, had to be replaced by Mark Brown after experiencing trouble with his back.
With numerous close calls at the home end, Sons were a little unfortunate not to draw level by half time.
After the break Mark Brown was quickly in action with a fine, diving stop to prevent ‘Ton from going further ahead.
The pressure from the Greenock side was relentless in the second half.
On 63 minutes Nesbitt looked to trip over his own feet when running off Darren Barr but the referee pointed to the spot amidst loud protests and Tidser converted the penalty to make it 2-0 to Morton.
Shortly afterwards, with Christian Nade making his second Dumbarton debut by replacing Mark Docherty, the visitors pulled a goal back.
Andy Stirling did the damage, when his effort was deflected in on 66 minutes for 2-1.
Dumbarton pushed hard for an equaliser in the dying embers of the game, but regrettably it was not to be.
Full match report, comment, and Sons TV to follow. Match photos now online.
Simon Barrow