Aitken hits out at lack of praise as Sons shine

DUMBARTON manager Stevie Aitken believes his part-time squad are not getting the credit they deserve.

Ryan Stevenson’s strike and a Garry Fleming penalty clinched victory for Sons with Derek Lyle grabbing a consolation for Queens.

Dumbarton are up to eighth in the table and Aitken said: ‘I’m exceptionally proud of the players and the performance as it was always going to be difficult coming here.

‘We’ve lost just one of our last six games, good going in any division, but it seems to be covered up and that we’re not doing well.’

Queens made a bright start but Stephen Dobbie was off target with two free-kicks either side of unleashing a shot which was saved by keeper Alan Martin.

The Doonhamers were denied again when Grant Anderson’s effort was blocked by Martin before Sons scored twice before the interval.

First, Stevenson found the top corner of the net after taking aim from 30 yards before Fleming doubled the lead with a thumping finish from the spot after referee Gavin Duncan awarded Dumbarton a penalty for Jamie Hamill’s challenge on Robert Thomson.

Queens pulled a goal back late-on when Lyle turned home Dobbie’s cross, a moment which may have offered some hope for new manager Gary Naysmith, who takes over this week.

Caretaker boss Jim Thomson said: ‘I couldn’t have asked for any more from the boys.’