neil robertson

Dundee finally got a King Kong-sized primate off their backs with the victory over Motherwell.

Before Saturday’s result, the home fans had not seen their side triumph in the league at Dens this season.

However, the players finally delivered at the seventh time of asking thanks to a performance full of passion and a terrier-like will to win.

Dundee undoubtedly enjoyed a rub of the green when keeper David Mitchell carried the ball over his own line in the first half but overall Paul Hartley’s men thoroughly deserved the three points.

It was a good all-round team performance but special mention must go to man-of-the-match Craig Wighton.

The 19-year-old was simply outstanding throughout showing great skill, strength and vision – an audacious back-heel in the second half was worth the admission money alone.

In the build-up to the game, Hartley had said about Wighton: “We all know he has ability and talent and he now has to step up to the plate.”

Well, he did that and more against the Steelmen.

The win, of course, was Dundee’s second in succession following the victory at Hamilton and while there is an international break this week, I am certain Hartley will have his players working as hard as ever in training.

The manager will be determined there is no loss of momentum despite the fact his side have a free Saturday.

Dundee have given themselves a Premiership lifeline with these two wins – they now have to make sure this is the beginning of a sustained revival in their fortunes.

… they now have to make sure this is the beginning of a sustained revival in their fortunes