Saturday 28th January 2017
DUMBARTON secured a fine victory at Starks Park this afternoon, coming back from s first half deficit to beat Raith Rovers 3-1.
Both sides were lively from the outset, with Dumbarton mounting several promising early attacks on a damp and cold day.
Sam Stanton, Christian Nade and Robert Thomson all came close for Sons in a hectic first 20 minutes, while Alan Martin made an important save at the other end.
On 26 minutes Gregor Buchanan was bundled off the ball as Raith pressed. But the referee waved play on as Mark Stewart squared his layoff for Ryan Hardie to drive home to make it 1-0 to the home side.
Four minutes into the second half, Sons were deservedly level. A fine ball in from Daniel Harvie found Nade, who headed down to bounce it into the top corner of the net.
Dumbarton were appealing for what appeared a clear penalty moments later. But the referee was unmoved and caused fury from the away side by booking Andy Stirling instead.
On 56 minutes Harvie put Sons 2-1 ahead, exploiting the space around him well to pick his spot from 20 yards.
Just after the hour Dumbarton made it 3-1, as Buchanan converted a corner at Rovers’ far post.
Callum Gallagher made his first appearance for Sons when Christian Nade came off after sustaining a knock on 64 minutes.
Raith pressed hard in the closing minutes, but Sons held on with assurance to secure a vital three points in the Ladbrokes SPFL Championship battle.
Full match report, comment and Sons TV to follow. Match photos now online.
Simon Barrow