Dark Blues rode their luck but finally there are some positives

The doom and gloom has lifted a little at Dens Park.

Things are far from perfect but there is a growing optimism of better days to come.

Maybe after the Celtic game anyway.

But, after Monday’s 3-0 Scottish Cup win at Peterhead, Dundee’s form since January 18 reads three victories, two draws and one defeat in the last six.

Four clean sheets are in there too, though two of those were against League One opposition.

What can we take from their Balmoor success?

MR COOL

Niall Mcginn was awarded the Man of the Match by the BBC and had a huge impact; involved for the penalty and scoring the second goal.

The pass for Mcginn’s goal was classic Charlie Adam, a long ball pinged over the defence landing right on the former Aberdeen man’s boot.

As we’ve seen for much of the season, when Adam is playing well, so are Dundee.

LUCK

But there’s no doubt luck went the way of the Dark Blues at Balmoor.

Peterhead were the better side for much of the game but couldn’t finish any of their good work unlike their Premiership opponents.

Hamish Ritchie cracked a shot off the inside of the post with the ball then rolling across the goal-line before spinning behind for a goal kick. Then there was not much doubt over the award for Dundee’s penalty.

But, if that’s a spot-kick then surely Ian Lawlor’s panicky challenge on Ryan Duncan was too.

The stand-in goalie slipped after receiving a back pass before clearly taking out the on-loan Dons man.

Things have begun to go for the Dark Blues; sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good.

CONFIDENCE

Sometimes you make your own fortune and the squad is in better shape now than even just a fortnight ago.

Despite their difficulties dominating League One opponents, there were no poor performances.

The experience and quality of Adam and Mcginn made the difference, Ryan Sweeney was strong at the back while Zeno Ibsen Rossi showed up well on debut.

And sub Josh Mulligan showed his ability with a superbly taken goal late on, his first for Dundee.

STRIKER WORRY

Manager James Mcpake was quick to assure anyone Danny Mullen’s injury was “just a bang”.

But it highlighted how short of recognised frontmen the squad is without Zak Rudden.

The new signing was cup-tied with Mcginn taking his place up top. When Mullen went off Luke Mccowan stepped in as striker. There are options but not ideal ones.

If Dundee are to get the better of Rangers in the quarter-final, Mullen is a must.

Charlie Adam scores from the spot for Dundee.