Defend like that and Dundee will be OK

DUNDEE’S win on Friday over Rangers just showed how important it is to defend well — if they keep that up, they’ll be heading up the table before long.

It’s not like the Gers were missing chance after chance but they were on top in the first half.

And the second half demonstrated just how important it is staying in games when things aren’t going all your own way.

That’s one thing I’ve said about both city clubs for ages — neither are able to play well and control every game. Sometimes it’s about hanging in there and taking your chance when it comes along.

That’s what I was impressed with from the Dark Blues — their defence handled the bit of pressure that came their way pretty well.

For that I’m really pleased for Dundee and boss Neil McCann because it looks like they’ve been working a lot on the defensive side of things and it’s started to show in recent weeks.

Defend like that for the rest of the season and they’ll be alright.

They’ll have half a chance in most games if they cut out the poor goals they’ve conceded this season because, if they take a chance at the other end, they’re looking good.

The two goals against Rangers were taken well by Mark O’Hara and, for the second one, Scott Allan showed what Dundee have missed of late.

He’s not yet hit the high notes for the Dark Blues that he probably would have hoped.

His injury and operation has been a big part of that but in just that one pass he showed his quality and ability to open up defences and create chances.

I always remember from his Dundee United days and then when he was at Hibs the amazing amount of assists he would lay on.

The reverse pass, too, which he used to perfection on Friday was a favourite at Easter Road I seem to recall.

The Gers defence has taken a bit of flak for their defending of that second goal but, for me, it’s a really difficult one.

The pass comes out of nowhere and to criticise the defence probably takes a bit away from Allan’s pass and O’Hara’s superb take and finish.

The victory, thanks to some strong defending and well-taken goals, will give the Dark Blues a huge boost.

Dundee secured three points as they saw off Rangers at Dens Park to get off the bottom of the Premiership.