Saturday 18th July 2015
DUMBARTON enjoyed a comfortable 2-1 victory over local rivals Clydebank at the Cheaper Insurance Direct Stadium this afternoon.
New look Sons seemed well in control for much of the opening period. However, a defensive lapse allowed Bankies’ new signing from Harmony Row under-21s, Mark Burbidge, to open the scoring early on. He picked up a loose ball to slot past Mark Brown.
A corner from Willie Gibson set up a well-headed equalizer from Dumbarton’s Gregor Buchanan midway through the half. Garry Fleming then scored to put the home side 2-1 up at the break.
Gaffer Stevie Aitken rang the changes at half time. Jamie Ewings replaced Brown in goal, Calum Waters came on for Mark Docherty, and Kevin Cawley substituted Darren Miller.
For Clydebank, ex-Sons 20s ‘keeper Josh Lumsden replaced Robert Hamilton on his first return to the Rock.
After a quiet re-start there were missed chances at both ends as the second half proceeded, with Sons well on top and pressing to extend their advantage.
More changes for Dumbarton came in the shape of Donald McCallum and Mikey Hopkins, in exchange for Gordon Smith and Willie Gibson.
Despite numerous opportunities, Sons could not in the end extend their advantage. But they will be pleased with a positive outing ahead of next Saturday’s Petrofac Training Cup visit to Greenock Morton.
Full match report and match photos online.
Simon Barrow