United’s late, late show denies Sons
DUNDEE UNITED 1 Keatings (87) DUMBARTON 1 Smith (5)
Just as Dumbarton looked like safely running down the clock for their first league win at tannadice for 59 years, united salvaged a point three minutes from the end.
The home side huffed and puffed all game and never look like scoring.
However, when Davie Wilson tripped Billy King on the edge of the box, United sub James Keatings curled home a superb left-foot free-kick to stun the Sons.
Ray McKinnon admitted afterwards: “I’m very frustrated – we’re just not at it at this moment.
“There is a huge improvement needed but I’m sure we’ll come good.
“We have 14 new faces from last season. That’s a big turnaround and will take time.
“However some will find themselves out if they don’t do what’s asked. They need to believe what we’re trying to do.
“We lost a dreadful early goal and looked nervous although we did improve in the second-half.”
United just deserved their point for not giving up but certainly nothing else. This was an extremely disappointing performance by United.
The introduction of three secondhalf substitutes helped the home team up the pace. After such a lethargic first- half it couldn’t have got any worse.
The visitors were the better team for long spells though.
They grabbed the lead when Davie Smith was unmarked at the far post to nudge a left-wing cross from Tom Walsh over the line with his thigh.
Walsh continued to give United rightback Stewart Murdoch a roasting while Smith was continually creating havoc down the other flank.
Dumbarton had obviously done their homework and targeted United’s full-backs Murdoch and Jamie Robson.
Dumbarton manager Steve Aitken said afterwards: “We’re disappointed to come here and not take all three points. That’s a bit of a statement.