Lichties are ‘underdogs’ despite their flying start

Arbroath may have made a blistering start to the League 1 campaign, but Gayfield gaffer Dick Campbell is adamant his side will be big underdogs at Dumbarton this afternoon, writes Neil Robertson.

The Gable Endies backed up their opening-day derby demolition of Montrose with a 3-1 win over Stranraer at home last week and are sitting proudly at the top of the table.

They also continued the fine form they had displayed in the Betfred Cup in the Irn-Bru Cup on Wednesday night, beating Elgin on penalties.

Despite all that, Campbell is taking absolutely nothing for granted against Stevie Aitken’s side who are looking to bounce straight back to the Championship at the first time of asking following their relegation last season.

Campbell said: “I have a big decision to make about whether to bring Jason Thomson back in.

“It is always difficult to change a winning side, but Jason’s experience could be important at a tough place like Dumbarton. So we will have to see.

“One thing is certain though – Dumbarton are heavy favourites.

“They have just come down from the Championship and have recruited well during the summer.

“However, while I would never, ever get carried away at this stage of the season, there is no denying we have made a fantastic start.

“We have beaten Dundee United and Ross County in the Betfred Cup, won away at Montrose in the league and Elgin on Wednesday night in the Irn-Bru Cup as well as beating Stranraer last week at Gayfield.

“So while no one at the club will be getting carried away or ahead of themselves, we have begun the season well and we will now look to keep that momentum going against Dumbarton.”

Arbroath have a full squad to choose from with the exception of long-term injury victim Steven Doris.

Dick Campbell has a decision to make over Jason Thomson.