Mcpake owns up to mistakes as he looks forward to play-offs

Dundee boss James Mcpake admitted he’s made mistakes this season but is delighted to have led his side to within four matches of promotion.

The Dark Blues booked their spot in the Premiership play-off semi-final after overtaking Raith Rovers on the final day.

A professional 2-0 victory at Queen of the South saw the Dens men take advantage of Raith’s home horror show against champions Hearts.

That gives Dundee the week off while Rovers and Dunfermline battle it out for the chance to face them in the semi.

Mcpake said: “First we had to beat Raith last weekend and then we knew we needed to do a job at Queen of the South.

“It was irrelevant what happened at Raith v Hearts really.

“It would have been six games as opposed to four for us had Raith won.

“We now have a chance to rest a few, get a few niggles sorted.”

Hearts finished the season 12 points ahead of the rest and Mcpake admits the best side won the title.

However, he’s determined to be playing league football at Tynecastle again next season by getting Dundee up through the play-offs.

The Dundee boss added: “I would say the best team over the course of the season won the league.

“And I think the second best team finished second, the league table never lies.

“It should have been done earlier, I’ll admit that and I’ll take that. I’m happy to admit we’ve got a fair bit wrong this season.

“On the whole, I’m pleased. It’s been a tough season, difficult circumstances that are difficult to manage when you’ve never been a manager before.

“But we didn’t compete enough to my liking.

“However, on the flipside, we are now four games away from joining them (Hearts) and I hope to be playing them next season in the Premiership.

“That’s the aim.”