Friday 10 December 2010

LOCAL BUISNESSES WILLING TO HELP DUNDEE FC.

Thursday 9th December saw the launch of the newly formed Dark Blues Buisness Trust, which is set up to help Dundee FC through the help of local buisnesses. Around 50 local buisnesses were represented at Dundee's Ice Rink as the Trust was officially launched.

For more information

http://www.thecourier.co.uk/Sport/Football/article/8501/five-figure-sum-pledged-to-dark-blue-business-trust-in-support-of-dundee-fc.html

8.30am PITCH INSPECTION

There will be an 8.30am pitch inspection on Saturday to determine whether the First Division clash between Greenock Morton v Dundee at Cappielow will go ahead.

JOHNNY STEWART AND DOMINIC CERVI ARE DEES

Hearts midfielder Johnny Stewart and Celtic goalkeeper Dominic Cervi have signed for Dundee on 3 months emergency loan deals. Scott Findlay is currently injured and so Barry has decided to bring in some cover and to take advantage of the suspension of the transfer embargo. Dark Blue Forever welcomes both players to Dens and wish to thank Hearts and Celtic for allowing them to join us.

Tuesday 7 December 2010

GREENOCK MORTON V DUNDEE GAME IN DOUBT

Greenock Morton's game with Dundee at Cappielow this Saturday is in severe doubt due to the freezing conditions that have prevailed over Scotland in the last few days.

RAITH ROVERS V DUNDEE

The re-arranged First Division fixture between Raith Rovers and Dundee on Wednesday 8th December has once again been called off due to adverse weather. An announcement will be made when a new date has been set.

Thursday 2 December 2010

NO SIGN OF MELVILLE'S CASH........

The Courier has reported today that Dundee are still awaiting the second £50k installment from Calum Melville who had promised to leave the club £200k, with it being distributed in 4 £50k installments. Apparently the first installment arrived but the second one, which was due to enter Dundee's account in the middle of November, hasn't arrived. Brian Jackson declined to comment on this situation as he said there was a confidentiality agreement in place with him and Mr Melville
"Any agreement is covered by confidentiality so I will make no comment" Brian Jackson told the Courier.

With the Cowdenbeath game off on Saturday, it looks like the finances will be severely stretched as apparently the call-off will cost Dundee in the region of £40k. Brian did admit that he was looking at other budgets but was hopeful that the game would go ahead so that the other budgets would not have to be put in place.


Source and qoutes: http://www.thecourier.co.uk/Sport/Football/article/8218/dundee-fc-await-arrival-of-calum-melville-cash-instalment.html

APPEAL DATE SET

Dundee's appeal to have the draconian punishements for going into administration reduced will be heard on Friday 17th December at Hampden Park, Glasgow. Dundee were initially docked 25 points and a transfer embargo placed upon them for entering administration for the second time in seven years. However these sanctions were suspended once Dundee appealed the decision. Lets hope they see sense and lower the punishement to a more sustainable level.

DUNDEE V COWDENBEATH OFF

Dundee's game with Cowdenbeath on Saturday has sadly off due to adverse weather conditions. It is therefore been rearranged for Tuesday 14th Dec, 19.45 kick off. It is a severe blow to the club as regards to income and the crowd expected on Saturday would be significantly higher than during the week. Although, the right decision has been made due to the fact that surrounding streets around Dens are very bad due to this intense snow.

http://www.dundeefc.co.uk/news_detail_iframe.asp?h=GAME-OFF&newsid=1350

Friday 26 November 2010

RAITH V DUNDEE POSTPONED DUE TO REF STRIKE

Dundee's game at Starks Park this Saturday has been postponed due to the impending referee strike this coming weekend which will see all SFL matches postponed as there will be no match officials available to officiate. SPL games will go ahead due to the SFA recruiting foreign referees for the top division and it would seem that lower league clubs will be angered as they feel they have lost out. In terms of revenue and costs, the SFL clubs will stand to lose money this weekend. The match will now be played on Tuesday 30th November.

DUNDEE V MOTHERWELL, SCOTTISH CUP 4TH ROUND

Dundee have been drawn against Motherwell in the 4th round of the Scottish Cup at Dens and will be played on the weekend of 8/9th January 2011.

Thursday 18 November 2010

CRAIG ROBERTSON TESTIMONIAL

Dundee FC will take part in Lochee United's Craig Robertson testimonal this coming Saturday at Thomson Park, Dundee with a 2pm kick off. Due to line up for Dundee that day are former players Javier Artero, Bobby Glennie, Tosh McKinlay, Bobby Geddes, Barry Smith and others to be announced. Tickets cost £8 for adults and £2 for OAP's and under 16's. Tickets can be purchased at Dundee Direct or at the turnstiles on the day. All proceeds from Craig's testamonial will be going towards his beloved Dundee FC through the Dundee Football Club Supporters Society.




It is truly a fantastic gesture from Craig and we all would like to wish him an enjoyable day.

Wednesday 17 November 2010

DARK BLUE FOREVER WELCOMES NEW BLOG TO LINKS.

Dark Blue Forever would like to welcome to its useful links a new Dundee FC blog and that's Dark Blues O'Dundee

Saturday 13 November 2010

DUNDEE SECURE FIRST AWAY WIN OF SEASON

Two goals from Leigh Griffiths and one from Nicky Riley made sure that Dundee left Victoria Park with their first away win under their belt. Ross County went into this game on the back of Derek Adams their manager leaving to take up the Assistant Manager's role at Hibernian. Craig Brewster took charge for this game as caretaker manager. More to follow...................

Tuesday 9 November 2010

DUNDEE WIN AGAINST THISTLE

Saturday 6th November 2010, a day all Dundee fans rallied together and showed the SFL what exactly what we thought of their decision to deduct us 25 points and a transfer embargo as punishement for entering administration. 6022 was the attendance at Dens on Saturday in which the majority of that attendance waved the red card to the SFL in an impressive and emotional display of dee-fiance by the Dundee supporters. It was an emotional day itself and a day which ended in an impressive 2-1 win for the Dark Blues.

Please see official Dundee FC website for match report.......

Monday 8 November 2010

DUNDEE'S FIGHT FOR SURVIVAL.

Dundee FC has faced many a long battle for survival in their 117 year history but none as perilious than the battle we face to stay in buisness today. After a severe case of gross mismanagement by certaun individuals that have since left the Dens Park board, we are quite literally staring oblivion in the face. It is totally unacceptable that our club should find ourselves in the position we do today.
It can be argued for and against that Dundee FC are a "sleeping giant" of Scottish Football. In the 1960's we were one of the biggest clubs in the country and we were taking on the likes of Italian giants AC Milan in the European Cup. These were the glory years of the Dark Blues and a whole host of fantastic footballing names wore the Dark Blue jersey including Bobby Cox, Ian Ure, Billy Steel and Doug Cowie. In 1962 we won the Championship in what would be the equivalent of the SPL trophy today. Thousands crammed into Dens to watch their heroes play and usually win. Fast forward 48 years and Dundee FC find themselves at the bottom of the First Division, the second tier of Scottish Football. We have been knocked out of the Alba Challenge Cup by Stenhousmuir and knocked out of the CIS League Cup by Brechin City. The board also failed to pay a staggering tax bill and certain directors had troubles outwith their commitment to DFC. This has all led to Mr Calum Melville, the club's benefactor, resigning, preceded by Bob Brannan and Ian Bodie in the Summer and the club plunging into administration for the second time in seven years. Dundee spent the second highest transfer fees in the summer of 2009 in Scotland with the purchase of Leigh Griffiths and Gary Harkins for around £250,000. Mr Melville had answered the club's call for investment and he became not only a director but also the club's benefactor. We had previously had worked to a strict buisness plan that was thought up by former chief executive Dave McKinnon, Ian Bodie and Bob Brannan. However, the club decided to veer away from this buisness model and were tempted by the cash that Melville had to offer. Dundee FC brought in a strong squad of players and the fans were hoping that it was going to be our year for promotion. Mr Melville stated that "second was nowhere" and we really needed to get back to the SPL. He also aimed for top six SPL football at Dens and also looked to aquire Dens Park from Dundee United chairman, John Bennett, who himself aquired the ground as exchange for monies loaned to DFC to buy back debt from bank. However, Dens was not sold and Melville didn't fulfil his promise on that front. Dundee started shaky but gradually began to produce a good string of results. In November 2009, Dundee won the Alba Challenge Cup beating Inverness CT in a thrilling 3-2 result. Dundee FC then extended that good run of results until Christmas and at one point were 15 points ahead at the top of the First Division. From January to March 2010 however results dipped and Jocky Scott was relieved of his managerial duties in March. Gordon Chisholm and Billy Dodds were appointed as the new management team but couldn't get Dundee FC the promotion they so desperately needed. It was disappointing but Melville had stated that there was no pressure on Chisholm getting Dundee promoted in his first couple of months as manager, it would be a two year plan. However, as Chis and Dodds was preparing to get a new look squad developed with possible names such as Bob Harris and Michael Gardyne being touted with real possible moves to Dens, trouble was brewing up behind the scenes at Dens Park. The tax bill hadn't been paid and bills were mounting. It would appear that the board had chucked all their eggs into one basket to get back to the SPL in season 2009/10 and with that they had severely overspent. Chisholm was then informed that the playing budget would be cut by 40% which then scuppered his plans to buy certain players. Bob Brannan issued an open letter in the Evening Telegraph advising fans to back the club or the club will die. Now, he knew the state of play then surely? He clearly saw the books at Dens and it now transpires that there was a huge tax bill building up. Instead of him crying out to the fans to dig deep and further support the club, beyond the call of duty in my opinion, Brannan and Melville should have agreed a plan to pay the tax bill and then set up some sort of repayment scheme to Melville at a later date. Instead, they let it get to where it has got the club and now we are really facing the oblivion because of gross incompetence by the former board of directors. October 14th will long live in the memories of Dundee supporters and players and staff for a long time. Nine players were given the sack as were Gordon Chisholm and Billy Dodds along with Neil Cosgrove, the kit man of 13 years and lifelong Dundee supporter who also worked in the ticket office within the club shop. It was a dark day indeed, while it seemed Brannan and Melville both slipped into obscurity leaving behind a huge mess for others to sort out. Whilst that all happened, we have been hammered by the SFL with a 25 points deduction and player embargo. The Dundee fans came out in force on Saturday at the Partick match at Dens and showed their grievances at the decision. Political figures have also backed our fight against the SFL and it is a fight that us Dundee fans will continue to wage. Now. we have to find £500,000 before Christmas for us to survive. The Dundee fans so far have been superb and have raised over £100,000 towards that already. It is still going to be a mammoth task for us to raise that kind of money and we really hope that an investor can step in aswell. I am 100% convinced that our terrific fans will fight right to the bitter end in order to help this great club survive and it is one campaign I will give my all.

Thursday 4 November 2010

25 POINTS DEDUCTION AND TRANSFER EMBARGO.

Dundee FC have been hit by the SFL with a 25 points deduction and a transfer embargo due to Dundee entering administration for the second time in 7 years. Bryan Jackson, administrator has expressed his outrage at the decision:
"I shall be appealing this decision by the SFL as I think that this is an outrageous punishment for the club. With almost guaranteed demotion from the first division it will be much more difficult to attract investment or retain players. This could also ultimately affect the income of other first division teams as we will be unable to attract a good away support if there is nothing to play for.”
“Given that the club is fulfilling its fixtures with a credible team this seems a punitive and punishing blow which threatens the future existence of the club. Everyone involved at DFC is working hard to ensure that the club survives this administration but this penalty makes that situation much more difficult. “
“Whilst I appreciate that the SFL had to be seen to act when the club fell into administration for the second time it is questionable whether this punishment is not ultimately self defeating by threatening the continued existence of the club.”
“Given the support which the club has had from the team, from the supporters, and from the city of Dundee, the response of the SFL has effectively been dismissive of this support. We can go on in the short term but this action has made the future much less certain than it has been at any time since the administration began"

Dundee fans have expressed their anger and displeasure at the decision and various facebook pages have been set up to show their feelings as regards to the decision.

Dundee FC have the right to appeal and will. We are Dundee FC and we will fight this all the way.
 
 
Quotes: http://www.dundeefc.co.uk/news_detail.asp?newsid=1285

Friday 29 October 2010

BRYAN JACKSON PUTS FORWARD DUNDEE'S CASE.

Dundee administrator Bryan Jackson put Dundee's final plea of leniency forward to the SFL board on Thursday as Dundee look set to be punished for going into administration for the second time in seven years. A decision will be made on Monday as to what punishement Dundee will recieve. It will probably involve a points deduction but we will find out on Monday.

Tuesday 26 October 2010

DUNDEE SHOW FIGHTING SPIRIT IN SUPERB COMEBACK AGAINST PARS.

Dundee managed to rescue a well deserved share of the spoils on Saturday after being two goals down at half time. Dundee started the game briskly and confidently and their passing was slick and direct. The Dark Blues had a few early forays at goal but unfortunately not anything that really tested the Pars keeper. The same could be said down the other end where there was little goal mouth action and none that really tested out Rab Douglas. Things however came to life just before the half hour mark when a hard hit cross/shot skidded off the hand of the unfortunate Matt Lockwood and ref Dougie McDonald pointed to the spot. It was a terrible decision as there was no way that Lockwood could have got out the way. Nonetheless up stepped Willie Gibson and he placed his perfect penalty into the back of the net. Dunfermline took a very undeserved lead. Dundee struggled to come to terms of which had just happened and three minutes later they again conceded a penalty and it was Lockwood that was the percieved perpatrator by Dougie McDonald. Willie Gibson then stepped up and narrowly hit the ball into the net via the underside of the crossbar. The Dundee fans were absolutely furious and they had every right to be. Dunfermline comfortably hung onto the lead into half time and the referee was soundly booed off the park by the 5000 odd Dundee supporters.
Second half and Dundee found themselves back in the game after two minutes. A swift counter attack found Leigh Griffiths with a ball through and at the vital time, the Dunfermline defender slipped and this allowed Griffiths to run in behind and he lifted the ball expertly over Chris Smith and into the back of the net. Dundee deserved that goal. Dunfermline responded and had a 10 minute spell of good posession play without really hurting Dundee too much. However Dundee found themselves on the attack soon enough and efforts from Gary Harkins and Sean Higgins narrowly went over the bar. Dundee were sniffing blood and Dunfermline were beginning to sit very deep in defence. Nicky Riley was susbstituted for Craig Forsyth midway through the second half and he provided fresh legs as Riley had worked his socks off. Still Dundee were pressing and with 9 minutes to go, the equaliser came. Great determination from Leigh Griffiths saw him win the ball from the Dunfermline defender at the byline and he expertly crossed the ball which found Sean Higgins and he deftly headered the ball over Smith and into the back of the net. Cue absolute pandimonium amongst the Dens faithful and in particular the South Enclosure. Dundee had fought superbly back and the last 10 minutes of the game was fast and frantic as both sides looked to find a winner but in the end Dundee had to settle for a share of the spoils. The Dens faithful rose to their feet in a standing ovation to the players who had worked so so hard and the fans were clearly delighted with the perfomance the lads had laid on. What a proud moment to be a Dee.

Monday 18 October 2010

DARK DAY AT DENS AS CUTS COMMENCE

Administration fully gripped Dens Park on Friday as 9 players were sacked.

Those that were sacked were: Paul McHale, Eric Paton, Brian Kerr, Colin McMenamin, Njazi Kuqi, Mickael Antoine Curier, Scott Fox, Charlie Grant and Dominic Shimmin.

Manager Gordon Chisholm, assitant Billy Dodds, John Holt and kitman Neil Cosgrove were also made redundant.

Players and staff kept were:

Rab Douglas, Matt Lockwood, Gary Irvine, Craig Forsyth, Sean Higgins, Stephen O'Donnell, Rhys Weston, Gary Harkins, Leigh Griffiths, Nicky Riley, Craig McKeown, Kyle Benedictus.

On Loan:

David Wittenween
Jamie Adams.





Sunday 10 October 2010

DUNDEE TO ENTER ADMINISTRATION

After exploring various options open to them, the directors of Dundee FC have confirmed the best form of action to take would be to place Dundee FC into administration. A club statement read:

The directors of Dundee Football Club have today decided that their only option is to place the Club into administration.
The administration appointment is expected to take effect from the middle of next week and the directors have approached Bryan Jackson of accountants PKF to consider being appointed as administrator.
The directors have taken this decision with considerable regret, but they believe they have no other choice in the current circumstances.
Until the administration is effective all staff will remain in post and the Club will continue to operate normally

 
http://www.thedees.co.uk/

Saturday 2 October 2010

SMILES BACK ON DEE FANS FACES AS DUNDEE GRAB THREE POINTS.

Dundee 2-1 Greenock Morton

After a week of turmoil, in which players and staff weren't paid, Dundee players stepped upto the mantel and claimed the win that all Dundee fans, staff, players and management all craved for and has put smiles on the faces of the Dundee persuasion for at least a day or two until the financial saga rears its ugly head again. More to follow.........

Friday 1 October 2010

DUNDEE V MORTON, PREVIEW

Dundee face Greenock Morton tommorow in a vital clash. Dundee FC and the supporters have endured a horrendous week of media intensity where it transpired that Dundee owe over £365k to the HMRC and the week culminating in the players not being paid. However, it's back to on the field buisness tommorow at Dens where Greenock Morton are the visitors. Hopefully a good crowd will turn out to support the Dees.

David Witteveen should be back for the Dees after a couple of weeks on the sidelines while Milan Musan is a doubt after picking up a knock. Charlie Grant and Mikael Antoine Curier are still sidelined for the Dark Blues.

Wednesday 29 September 2010

ADMINISTRATION THREAT LOOMS OVER DUNDEE FC

Administration is  a serious and real threat that faces the club after it emerged that Dundee owe the HMRC of around £365,000 in unpaid PAYE and National Insurance tax. The club has been in serious talks with the board and looking at various options. Dundee fans are understandably frustrated at the lack of information from the club due to confidentiality. HMRC have been offered by Mr Melville a downpayment of £100,000 but that was apparently rejected as was his written guarantee that the bill would be paid in full in May. It has transpired though that a group of Dundee local buisnessmen have come forward with £75k with the hope that Mr Melville would underwrite the balance of the due payment. If nothing can be agreed, then there is a distinct and really possibility that the club will be plunged into administration or even worse, liquidation. More to follow as soon as possible.

Saturday 25 September 2010

COWDENBEATH OUTFIGHT DEE TO VICTORY.

Cowdenbeath 2-1 Dundee: Central Park, Cowdenbeath


Dundee completed a truly horrendous week by being out-fought and out-played by Fife side, Cowdenbeath.
There had been reports in the press all week as regards to Calum Melville resigning as director and also the future of the club. The players today showed no signs of the focus that Gordon Chisholm and Gary Harkins had spoken about in the local press. In fact, the players did the complete opposite and it was saddening to see the lack of effort on display by the players. More to follow...................

Friday 24 September 2010

DEE4LIFE STATEMENT.

Statement from Dundee FC Supporters' Society Ltd.

The board of Dundee FC Supporters’ Society Ltd. are extremely concerned by the latest uncertainty at Dundee Football Club.
We raised concerns about the club’s sustainability over a year ago, warning the club board of the problems inherent in the benefactor business model, and reiterated those concerns in an open letter this summer, but it appears our warnings have not been heeded.
While all Dundee fans are of course extremely grateful for the significant financial input made so far by Calum Melville, and hope that this continues, we made it clear to the board that relying on a benefactor in order to offset an unsustainable business model is not something that we support.


We hope that the board have learned the lessons of the past, and that the club is not in similar difficulties to those we and other clubs have experienced before. If and when the club gets through these difficulties, we must ensure that the club and the board operate in a sustainable manner, with the sort of transparency and accountability that we have a right to expect not just as fans but as the owners of over a quarter of the shares in the club.
The Society board would reiterate that we have full faith in our boardroom representative, Stuart Murphy. We appreciate his efforts on behalf of our members and understand that for reasons of confidentiality we must wait along with the rest of the fans for a full explanation of the situation.


The board last year chose to stop holding Annual General Meetings, but this was conditional on their promise to hold an annual Question and Answer session instead. Despite repeated requests both directly and through our boardroom representative over several months, the club has refused to arrange a Q&A which was promised at their suggestion, not ours.


All Dundee fans have a right to have their questions answered, and we would repeat our demand that the board hold the promised Q&A without any further delay

http://www.dee4life.com/

DUNDEE IN CRISIS.....DUNDEE IN CRISIS......DUNDEE IN CRISIS

There is a general fear amongst Dundee fans that the future of the club is in severe doubt after benefactor and director Calum Melville offered his resignation from the board. The multi-millionaire has invested around £1.3M into the Dark Blues and helped the club purchase the likes of Leigh Griffiths and Gary Harkins for a reputed total of £250,000. There has been a wall of silence from the club since the news broke on Monday and board meetings were planned for Monday 20th Sept and Thursday 23rd September and in between Harry MacLean, Chief Executive was supposed to have had talks with Calum Melville but so far the club have not issued anything other than a "no comment" statement and basic information and haven't expanded any further. Very worrying times indeed!

Monday 20 September 2010

MR CALUM MELVILLE HANDS IN RESIGNATION!

Dark Blue Forever are shocked to have learned that Dens director, Calum Melville has decided to tender his resignation as director of Dundee FC. More to follow as soon as more news reaches us........

Saturday 18 September 2010

DUNDEE DROP POINTS AGAIN!

Dundee 0-0 Raith Rovers


Dundee again dropped points at home as both sides battled a very poor match. More to follow....

Friday 17 September 2010

DUNDEE V RAITH ROVERS, PREVIEW

Dundee welcome league leaders Raith Rovers tommorow to Dens Park as the Dark Blues look to make amends for an abysmal display last week at Dunfermline.

Dundee have a slight doubt over on loan striker David Witteveen who missed last week's trip to Fife but will be given every chance to be involved tommorow. Dominic Shimmin and Charlie Grant are still out for the Dark Blues, as is Mikael Antoine-Curier.

Raith will be missing defenders Mark Campbell and Dougie Hill for their trip to Dens whilst winger Scott McBride also misses out due to illness.

Wednesday 1 September 2010

NJAZI KUQI JOINS DUNDEE

6 ft 4 striker Njazi Kuqi has joined the Dark Blues on a one year deal.

The 27 year old Kosovo born Finnish international previously played for teams such as Birmingham City, FC Groningen, FC Lahti, Carl Ziess Jena and TuS Koblenz.

Speaking to http://www.thedees.co.uk/, Kuqi expressed his delight to join Dundee FC.
" I am looking forward to getting back into football again, which was very important for me. I had other options aswell but I wanted to come here. I want to come to British football again, give myself a chance and show that I am a good player"

Gordon Chisholm was also pleased with his new player.
"He is a big lad, and he has a presence. He has a good touch and when he is moving he is mobile. I think he'll add another dimension to the team"

photo (c) David Martin Fotopress.

Source: http://www.thedees.co.uk/ b

Saturday 28 August 2010

SLICK DUNDEE BEAT FALKIRK

Dundee bounced back from the midweek disappointment by winning a crucial game against Falkirk today at Dens. More to follow.......

Friday 27 August 2010

DUNDEE V FALKIRK, PREVIEW

Dundee will have to blow away the memories of their humbling in the CIS League Cup on Tuesday night at the hands of Brechin City as they head into a tough game with Falkirk tommorow at Dens Park.

Dundee will be without suspended Craig Forsyth who was sent off in Tuesday nights game, Dominic Shimmin due to injury and also Mikael Antoine Curier who is also sidelined with injury. Charlie Grant is a doubt too. New signing, David Whiteveen will be available for selection.

For Falkirk, they have a fully fit squad.

MATT COMMITS TO DEES

Matt Lockwood, who was on an inital 28 day contract has extended that deal until the end of the season. The 33 year old left back has impressed in his two games played so far for the Dees that boss Gordon Chisholm decided to extend his deal.

DUNDEE SIGN STRIKER

Dundee have completed the signing of 25 year old Hearts striker David Whiteveen on loan for 3 months.

Monday 23 August 2010

DUNDEE SEARCH FOR NEW STRIKER AS CURIER SET TO LEAVE?

Dundee look as if they are stepping up their search for a new striker by taking Hearts striker David Witteveen on loan. The 25 year old was on loan to Morton at the tail end of last season and scored against Dundee in the 2-2 draw at Cappielow. David was seen in the directors box at Dens on Saturday and Dark Blue Forever understands talks are an advanced stage to bring the Austrian to Dens, presumably on a loan deal. Meanwhile as one player possibly joins the Dens squad, one is perhaps set to leave. Mikael Antoine Curier has again been linked with Hamilton and according to the Evening Telegraph, there is perhaps more room for a deal to be thrashed out. Curier is currently sidelined at the moment after having knee surgery.



photo (c) http://forum.soccermanager.com/

Saturday 21 August 2010

ALL SQUARE AT DENS.

Dundee 0-0 Ross County:

Dundee avoided a third straight defeat in all competitions by drawing with a plucky Ross County side at Dens Park. Dundee started brightly with an early corner after two minutes, but it ultimatly came to nothing. Ross County had the chance to take the lead after seven minutes when Michael Gardyne sprinted forward from the half way line with Gary Wood running as back up but Gardyne hesitated too long and should have passed to Wood but Craig McKeown managed to put a block in as a shot finally came. Dundee struggled to gain purposeful possession and were clumsy with mis-placed passes. County looked comfortable and stroked the ball round purposefully and quickly. Dundee could have taken the lead before the break with a superb Gary Harkins 25 yard free kick which clattered off the crossbar. Minutes later, Dundee could have again taken the lead when a scramble ensured in the County 6 yard box but County bodies quickly blocked Dundee shots and the danger was cleared.
Second half and Dundee made a change. Jamie Adams, who as playing centre half picked up a booking in the first half, was replaced by Rhys Weston. Dundee managed to gain a little grip of the game and their passing improved. Sean Higgins replaced Colin McMenamin late on in the second half but he couldn't help Dundee to a win. The game finished 0-0.



Teams:

DUNDEE: Douglas, Irvine, Grant, McKeown, Lockwood, Riley, Adams (Weston 46) Forsyth, Griffiths, McMenamin (Higgins 70)

Subs not used: Fox, O'Donnell, Paton

Booked: Adams

Ross County: McGovern, Miller, McCormack, Boyd, Morrison, Gardyne (Di Giacomo 83) Lawson, Scott, Corcoran (Vigurs 66) Wood (Craig 83) Brittain

Subs not used:  Malin, Kettlewell

Booked: Boyd, Vigurs


Attendance: 3,946

Ref: Craig Thomson

Friday 20 August 2010

DUNDEE V ROSS COUNTY PREVIEW

New signing, Matt Lockwood looks set to be pitched straight into the squad for tommorow's match with Scottish Cup finalists, Ross County. Eric Paton and Mickael Antoine Curier are out for the Dark Blues with Leigh Griffiths a major doubt after missing training earlier in the week. Rab Douglas and Rhys Weston are also out for the Dees while Nicky Riley is free to play after suspension.

County will miss Andrew Barrowman, who has suffered a fractured metatarsial whilst right back Gary Miller is a doubt.

MATT SEALS MOVE TO DENS

Former Nottingham Forest and Leyton Orient left back, Matthew Lockwood has signed a short term deal with Dundee. The 33 year old will be pitched straight into the squad to face Ross County at Dens tommorow. We would like to welcome Matt to Dens Park.



photo (c) David Young (http://www.thedees.co.uk/ )

PARTICK EDGE OUT DEES

Partick gained some revenge against the team they couldn't beat last season, Dundee. In what was a close game, it was Partick Thistle that scored the only goal of the game and that sealed all three points for the Firhill club.

Wednesday 11 August 2010

STENNY RUN RIOT AS DEES ARE EMBARRASSED

Stenhousmuir 4-1 Dundee,  Alba Challenge Cup Round Two, Ochilview, 

After an industrious and heroic effort in Saturday's win over Queen of the South at Dens, the Dark Blues crashed out of the Alba Challenge Cup at the hands of part-timers, Stenhousmuir.
Goals from Alex Williams, Grant Anderson, Paul Quinn and Kevin Motion sealed the shock victory for the Second Division club with Leigh Griffiths scoring a scant consolation goal for the Dark Blues.

Dundee have to now pick themselves up and concentrate on Saturday's away match at Partick Thistle.

Monday 9 August 2010

DUNDEE PASS TEST AS QOTS ARE DEFEATED.

Dundee 1-0 Queen of the South

Dundee started the season well as they recorded a victory over Queen of the South at Dens. After a week in which both clubs were involved in a war of words regarding the possible transfer of Bob Harris to Dundee from Queens, it was time for the talking to be done on the pitch and Dundee did the majority of the talking as they managed to win the game with 9 men on the park. Gary Harkin's fantastic free kick was the only goal of the game.

To see Dundee report, please go to

http://www.thedees.co.uk/

Tuesday 3 August 2010

PLAYER PROFILE: JAMIE ADAMS

22 year old Jamie Adams signed a loan deal with the Dees until January from St Johnstone. Jamie was born in Stranraer in August 1987. He started his footballing career with Kilmarnock and was a product of their youth system. In 2007, as part of the Willie Gibson transfer from Queen of the South to Kilmarnock, Jamie was farmed out on loan to Queen of the South. where he made 11 appearances and scoring two goals. He was then shipped out on loan again to Queen of the South for the start of the 2007/08 season and then again for a third spell in July 2008. However, during these two spells at the club, he suffered two cruciate ligament injuries but was nursed back to full fitness after lengthy spells on the sidelines. He joined Partick Thistle on emergency loan from November 2009 til January 2010, where he made 7 appearances for the Jags. In March 2010, he again joined Queen of the South on loan and made seven appearances. Jamie's contract with Kilmarnock expired in May 2010 and he subsequently joined St Johnstone on a two year deal. He joined Dundee on the 29th July 2010 on loan until January 2011 and once again teams up with Gordon Chisholm and Billy Dodds who were at Palmerston when Adams was there on loan. He made his debut in the Dark Blue of Dundee against Montrose in the CIS League Cup and won a penalty for Dundee.


photo (c) David Young (http://www.thedees.co.uk/)

Monday 2 August 2010

QUEENS REJECT DUNDEE OFFER FOR HARRIS

Queen of the South manager, Kenny Brannigan has dismissed Dundee's bid for Bob Harris as nowhere the estimation. It has been rumoured that the Dark Blues had offered £30,000 plus a  player but that apparently hasn't tempted the Dumfries club to sell. Also he dismissed Dundee as being too small a club for Bob Harris and that he should go down south to seek his footballing career if he should leave Palmerston. Speaking on the QOS website he said:
""There will be no deal until the price is right - he's not leaving us for two bob and a doughnut," "I think Bob Harris is a far bigger player than Dundee," he told BBC Scotland.
"If he wants to go and make a genuinely good living from the game, then I think he has to go south.
He's not leaving us for two bob and a doughnut
Queen of the South manager Kenny Brannigan
"He's only a kid but he's a right good leader and he plays with good aggression.
"We all want him to stay but there comes a level where, if the right money comes in, he has to go but we'd rather he went down south than stayed in Scotland, especially to another First Division side."

There is no indication as to whether Dundee will up their bid for the player, but watch this space.


Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/q/queen_of_the_south/8875119.stm

photo (c) http://www.bbc.co.uk/

Saturday 31 July 2010

DUNDEE 3-0 MONTROSE

Goals from Nicky Riley (2) and Leigh Griffiths were enough to ease Dundee through to the next round of the CIS Cup. New signings Jamie Adams and Rhys Weston made their competitive debuts for the Dark Blues.

For full report and team list go to: http://www.thedees.co.uk/fixtures/match_report.asp?m=DUNDEE-V-MONTROSE&FID=1001

DUNDEE TABLE BID FOR HARRIS

Gordon Chisholm has admitted Dundee have put a bid in for Queen of the South left back Bob Harris. Speaking to DFCTV, Chisholm admitted his admiration for Harris and also divulged that a bid had been lodged for the player.
"Bob's a player I like. He's a solid left back but he's a Queen of the South player and I don't want to go into it too much. We have made an offer and we'll just have to wait until the beginning of next week to see where we are on that one"



quotes: http://www.thedees.co.uk/

DUNDEE SIGN ADAMS AND WESTON

Dundee have completed the signings of Jamie Adams on loan til January and Rhys Weston on a one year deal. Jamie joins the Dark Blues from St Johnstone whom he had joined earlier this summer from Kilmarnock but injuries and lack of match fitness have resulted in the 22 year being farmed out to Dundee until January 2011. Rhys meanwhile joins as a free agent after being released by Walsall at the end of last season. The Welshman initially was on trial at Dundee but Chisholm was convinced he was the type of player required this term and has been handed a one year deal at Dens.

We wish both players all the best.

photos (c) www.killiefc.com ; http://www.skysports.com/

Saturday 24 July 2010

DUNDEE 2-1 ALLOA ATHLETIC

Dundee left it very late as they came from behind to win in this first round Challenge Cup encounter against Alloa Athletic at Dens Park. Colin McMenamin and Sean Higgins scored the two goals as Dundee's blushes were spared.  Dundee started the game positively and could have taken the lead after 10 seconds when Curier found himself in the box but couldn't find the finish to dink it past the keeper. Dundee's passing first half was good and they totally dominated possession. Frustration began to creep in as the first half dragged on and that only was good for Alloa's confidence as they rarely had ventured forward. However Scott Fox had to make a few comfortable saves as Alloa looked to put pressure on the Dees as the half drew to an end. Nicky Riley was Dundee's best player first half with tantalising runs that excited the crowd.
Second half and Dundee totally took their eye of the ball. The passing was slack and they couldn't find their men. Alloa were now determined to have a go at Dundee and it was only some smart keeping from Fox that kept the scoreline 0-0. With around 20 minutes remaining, Dundee made two subs, Higgins on for Curier and McMenamin on for Kerr. But 5 minutes later, Dundee found themselves behind courtesy of a Scott Walker headed goal. Minutes later and Dundee nearly found themselves 2 goals down when Andy Scott's shot rattled off the crossbar. It looked like Alloa were about to pull off the shock of the round...but alas it wasn't to be. Their travelling supporters were superb throughout the match but were stunned in the 86 minute when Colin McMenamin found the back of the net with a perfectly placed header. Alloa's luck finally deserted them in the 90th minute when a scramble ensued in the Alloa area and substitute Sean Higgins forced the ball home from close range. Dundee had done it! They had somehow snatched victory from the jaws of defeat and for the Alloa support must have felt like a cruel blow.


Teams:

DUNDEE:

Fox, Irvine, McKeown, Benidictus, Forsyth, Riley (McMenamin 69) Kerr (McHale 81) Harkins, O'Donnell, Curier, (Higgins 69) Griffiths

Subs not used: Douglas, Paton

Booked: Antoine-Curier, Irvine

Goals: McMenamin 86, Higgins 90

Alloa Athletic:

Robertson, Gibson,  Dunlop, Walker, Brown, Scott (McAvoy 83) Grant, McDonald, Smith, Prunty, (Gormley 67) Noble (Lister 67)

Subs not used: Ewings, Hay

Booked: Grant, Brown

Goals: Walker 74

Attendance: 1522

Friday 23 July 2010

GARY JOINS THE DEES!

Dundee have completed the signing of former St Johnstone full back Gary Irvine on a one year deal. He was on trial with the Dark Blues for a few weeks now and it's finally great that he has signed for Dundee.

Monday 19 July 2010

TALBOT OPTS TO GO SOUTH

Trialist defender, Jason Talbot, who featured in Saturday's pre-season draw at Arbroath has opted to move south to an un-named League Two side. The former Livingston left-back was interesting Chisholm but after only one game, Chis was not in a position to offer the player a deal and so looks likely to move to the League Two side who has offered him a deal.

http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/output/2010/07/19/story15397975t0.shtm

ARBROATH 1-1 DUNDEE

Dundee's first public pre-season friendly ended in a draw at Arbroath's Gayfield. It was the Red Lichties that scored first courtesy of trialist Jordyn Sheerin. Dundee stepped up their game in the second half and equalised through Colin McMenamin after substitute Sean Higgins had his shot saved. It proved to be a good work out for the Dark Blues and boss Gordon Chisholm was overall pleased with the performance.
 "I thought we started a wee bit slow, a wee bit off the pace, and that’s something we’re going to have to make sure doesn’t happen.”

We picked it up after the break and there were a number of chances, and I thought it was a good game, most of the boys got a good few minutes.

The games we’ve played I’ve been pleased with, and I thought today we started as if it was a typical pre-season game, but in the second half we certainly picked it up.”
“The pitch is a wee bit sticky and we maybe tried to over-play a little bit, and I thought Arbroath did really well. They were right up for the game, but I was pleased with all our boys, and I thought they finished the game really strong.” Gordon told the official Dundee FC website.

New signings Scott Fox, Nicky Riley and Stephen O'Donnell all featured and trialist Jason Talbot also featured at left back. Gordon stated that he still has to make a decision on Talbot who was at Livingston last season and he intends to sit down with him later on in the week to discuss the matter with the player.








Source: http://www.thedees.co.uk/

Friday 16 July 2010

PAT CLARKE JOINS THE PARS

Dunfermline have signed Pat Clarke on two year deal. The former Clyde frontman only made 4 starts and 16 appearances in his time with the Dark Blues. We would like to wish Pat all the best at his new club and thank him for his time at Dens.

DUNDEE SIGN O'DONNELL AND RILEY

Dundee have today completed the signings of former United midfielder Stephen O'Donnell and former Celtic youngster Nicky Riley. 27 year old O'Donnell has signed a one year deal whilst Riley has signed a 6 month deal with the Dark Blues.

After a torturous week, rumours flying, it was good to actually have a good bit of news for a change and indications suggest that there will be more signings on the way.


Whilst trialist Scott Buist is set to join Stirling Albion, according to the Daily Record.


photo (c) http://www.thedees.co.uk/

Saturday 10 July 2010

HARKINS GRABS BRACE AGAINST HIBEES!

Gary Harkins scored two goals in an encouraging draw with Hibernian at Easter Road behind closed doors. The game also gave Chisholm a chance to see big Antoine-Curier in a game situation since returning from his loan spell with Hamilton Accies, whilst 6 trialists were put through their paces including former St Johnstone defender Gary Irvine, Stephen O'Donnell, Nick Riley and Scott Buist.

Monday 5 July 2010

MEET CHIS AND DODDSY

There is an opportunity to meet the management team in an evening of football and entertainment. This will take place on Thursday 22nd July at 19.30 in the Captains Lounge at Dens Park. Tickets cost £30 which included a 2 course supper and entertainment from John Gahagan and also an insight into the management team and their plans for the new season and also youth coach Barry Smith's take on things aswell.

TWO MORE TRIALISTS JOIN DEES

There are another two trialists that have joined the pre-season training in an attempt to win a contract with the Dees. Their identities have not yet been revealed but they will take part possibly in closed door friendlies against MK Dons and Hibernian.

Tuesday 29 June 2010

TRANSFER RUMOURS

Well, it's been slow so far this close season but let's hope that there might be activity in the next week or so.

Currently training with Dundee, looking for the opportunity to sign for the Dark Blues are:

Stephen O'Donnell
Nicky Riley
Scott Buist.

Gordon has hinted at more trialists coming to the club in the coming weeks.

KLIMPL AND CASEMENT LEAVE DENS.

Maros Klimpl and Chris Casement have left Dundee FC by mutual consent. Maros made 20 appearances for the Dark Blues last season but injury curtailed his opportunities.









 Chris only made 4 appearances for the Dees and spent the last few months of the season on loan at Northern Irish outfield, Linfield. We would like to wish both players our best wishes in their search for new clubs.


photos (c) http://www.thedees.co.uk/

Saturday 19 June 2010

SEARCH FOR NEW CHAIRMAN STARTS.

I came across a very interesting article in the Herald online about the search for a new chairman at Dundee FC.

http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/more-scottish-football/wanted-club-chairman-needs-gsoh-no-salary-1.1035649

Thursday 17 June 2010

FIXTURES 2010/11

Dundee will face Queen of the South at Dens on August 7th in their first  league game of the season.

To see full fixture list go to:

http://www.dundeefc.co.uk/news_detail.asp?ID=3265

Wednesday 16 June 2010

CALUM STILL COMMITTED!

Calum Melville is still committed to the Dundee cause, according to today's Courier. Harry MacLean spoke to the Courier, in order to try and allay concerns from sections of the Dundee support who believed Mr Melville was about to leave Dundee FC.
"He has definitely not lost interest,” said the Dundee commercial director.
“He never intended to run a football club and I cannot stress highly enough that Calum wants to help us, provided we are helping ourselves.
“That includes fans buying season tickets, supporters’ groups delivering on fund-raising efforts, turning up for games and basically being enthusiastic.
“Calum can lend us his money but he has not got loads of time to be here in person which is the reason why I am here.
“I speak to him nearly every day and I think he has only missed one board meeting out of the last six or seven due to other commitments but that is on a par with every board member.
“His enthusiasm has not changed and he speaks to (manager) Gordon Chis-holm regularly.
“In fact, Gordon came up to Calum’s house with me not so long ago to go over budgets and to look at players.
“Out there, I think the perception is that Calum is not here a lot but he never was here all the time.
“As I said, he has never been interested in owning or running the club, he just wants to help it move on"
“It is clear that the level of investment will not be as high as it has been in the last 15 or 16 months but he is still committed to putting some money in.
“How much, I suppose, will come down to the level of effort and commitment he sees from other people.
“If everyone from the board to fans’ groups are pulling in the same direction, then Calum will be there.
“He has already stated publicly a few times that he is here for another year but he does need to see some movement.

Well that certainly is welcome news and lets hope we can all pull in the same direction and now fully concentrate on promotion to the SPL come May 2011.


Source: http://www.thecourier.co.uk/output/2010/06/16/sportstory15228331t0.asp

Photo: (c) http://www.thedees.co.uk/

MAC IS SET TO COME BACK!

Gordon Chisholm told the local press today that he will be welcoming back Mickael Antoine Curier back to Dens for the upcoming season. Speaking to the Evening Tele, he confirmed that Curier was part of his plans and hopes to create a partnership with Leigh Griffiths up front to relieve the youngster and Gary Harkins the burden of scoring most of Dundee's goals and that could prove to be a good partnership after Curier had scored 8 goals last term for Hamilton whilst on loan and Griffiths had scored around 19 goals for Dundee.
"I’ve spoken to big Antoine, we chatted for about an hour in fact, and, as far as I am concerned, he is a Dundee player with a lot to offer us,” said Chis.
“That means I expect to have him back here playing for us next season, because he is a player with a proven scoring record and I don’t see why you wouldn’t want him in your team.”
Chisholm also stated that he understood that Curier may wish to play at a higher level but stated that he could yet do that with Dundee and he also wanted to have a clean slate and forget what happened before.
I understand him wanting to play in the top league, but, in the absence of an offer we feel we couldn’t turn down, he will be with us and, right now, while there’s been some tentative contact about him, no-one has bid.
“He knows that, and so does his agent because I’ve spoken to him and he assures me the big man will be committed to our cause.
“As for what’s gone on before, I am not interested in it and don’t need to know.
“Like every other player, I will take him as I find him and, so long as he is working hard for me, I’ll be happy to have him here.”


It looks a very good partnership in the making and lets hope it can lead us to glory.



Source: http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/output/2010/06/16/story15231037t0.shtm

Photo: (c) http://www.thedees.co.uk/

DUNDEE CREATE YOUTH LINK.

Dundee have confirmed that they are hoping to be arranging a link up with Fife Youth outfit, Glenrothes Strollers. If successful, the 400 players under the Fife club could go through their paces at Dens and also some of the backroom staff at Dundee FC will be visiting the Fife club to give tips, advice and guidance to the youngsters and also to the staff at Glenrothes Strollers. Initiatives with other local youth clubs are also on the agenda for the Dark Blues and it is hoped that links in Perth and Dundee could be made.

SEASON TICKET SALES ENCOURAGING SO FAR!

The help of the Early Bird scheme for season tickets for the upcoming season have seen sales up from the same point last year by 17%. This should mean the number of total season tickets sold should break the 3000 mark. Another encouraging sign was that there was a 21% increase in revenue from the sale of adult season tickets for this season compared to that of last.

Tuesday 1 June 2010

DUNDEE UNVEIL NEW KIT AND SPONSORS


Dundee FC have unveiled their new strips for season 2010/11 and have also formalised a deal with Kilmac Energy to become principle sponsors of the club.
The new kits will be available to pre-order from June 3rd and the home kit will be released on the 17th July. Away kit will be on sale on 30th July.

photo (c) http://www.thedees.co.uk/

Friday 28 May 2010

DUNDEE OPEN CHALLENGE CUP DEFENCE AGAINST ALLOA

Dundee will open their defence of the MG Alba Challenge Cup against Alloa Athletic in the First Round at Dens Park. The match will take place on the 24th July.

MONTROSE TO VISIT DENS IN CIS CUP FIRST ROUND.

Dundee have been drawn at home in the first round of the CIS League Cup against Angus rivals Montrose. The game will take place on the 31st July.

DOMINIC SIGNS FOR THE DEES!

Former Arsenal, QPR and Morton defender Dominic Shimmin has joined the Dark Blues. The 22 year old has signed a two year deal at Dens and will officially be Gordon Chisholm's first permanent signing of his managerial career at Dens.
Speaking to DFCTV, Dominic was thrilled to be a Dee and was happy that the club matches his ambition to play at a higher level:
"I've been in Scotland two years and have played against Dundee, I've always been impressed with the set-up, the stadium, the amount of fans and they have a big history-it looks like we'll be pushing for the title next season and I want to be part of that."
Gordon Chisholm was delighted to have snapped the 6ft plus defender up.
"I think he'll bring a lot of positives to the team, the position he plays, centre back, is an important part of the team, he's got a good pedigree - started at Arsenal" Gordon Chisholm told Jacqui "I've seen the boy a lot in the last couple of years and I've never seen anyone get the better of him. He's very powerful, very strong and very quick - I'm delighted to have him on board"

To view Shimmins full interview with DFCTV, go to http://www.thedees.co.uk/.



Photo: (c) http://www.thedees.co.uk/

Tuesday 25 May 2010

New forum!

I have decided to start up my own forum for all Dundee fans to savour and enjoy.

http://www.darkbluefirst.freeforums.org/

Feel free to have a look and post your opinion on all things Dundee FC.

Wednesday 19 May 2010

WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN FOR DUNDEE FC?

Well, this time last year, Dundee fans were dreaming. We had just installed a new member of the board, Mr Calum Melville, who promised investment and a buisness plan initiated into the club. He duly kept his side of the bargain by sanctioning the transfers of Leigh Griffiths and Gary Harkins for a combined transfer total of £265,000 or there abouts. The club also went on a signing spree, with Jocky Scott the then manager almost given carte blanche as to who he wanted to sign. Dundee found themselves in a position that they hadn't found themselves in since the days of the Bonetti brothers, actually spending a six figure sum on individual players. For a First Division club, it was unheard of. Clubs in this competitive league have a very tight budget to work from and up until last season, Dundee were following the same pattern. But, now Dundee were splashing the cash and were also causing a stir in Scottish football. Almost so as they were nicknamed "the Manchester City of the North" for the frenzy money spending. As the season tickets number rose, the squad numbers swelled and hopes were raised for a real genuine push for promotion. So did the story end happily?
No, the answer is no. Having won the Alba Challenge Cup in November, Dundee went on an impressive 14 game unbeaten run and found themselves a good distance at the top of the league, albeit with other clubs having games in hand. The January transfer window came and went with Dundee signing two loanees, Andrew Shinnie and Ben Hutchinson. A defeat at home to Airdrie United in early January saw the start of a terrible run of results in which Dundee picked up only 21 points out of a possible 50 on offer. Results fluctuated and it was a 3-0 away defeat, ironically against Airdrie United on the 20th March which saw the removal of Jocky Scott as Dundee boss. In came Gordon Chisholm and Billy Dodds. Their task was to get Dundee over the finishing line and yes, Dundee were in a great position, 4 points clear at the top. However the new manager effect didn't come into play and Dundee dropped 4 points in Chisholm's first two games in charge, which allowed second place Inverness CT leapfrog Dundee by a single point. A defeat at Dunfermline saw Inverness extend their lead to 4 points and from that point on, there wasn't going to be a recovery from Dundee. Inverness were on an incredible unbeaten run since November and they were forging away at the top of the table. Dundee could only look on and wonder what if? Inverness CT clinched the title without having to kick a ball. Dundee had to win at Starks Park on April 21st to keep any faint title hopes alive. Alas, they fell to a solitary goal from Raith Rovers. Cue celebrations in the Highland Capital that evening. Inverness were returning to the SPL after one season in the First Division and Dundee had handed them the title giftwrapped.
Now as we comprehend the failure of last seasons efforts, attention has been drawn to the ultimate success of which the Tangerine side of the city has enjoyed. Finishing third in the SPL and winning the Scottish Cup for only their second time, the Dundee United fans were having a real laugh, they were laughing at their old rivals, Dundee FC. And who could blame them? No-one.
Who is at fault for the collapse of our title hopes? Was Melville right to invest in a club like Dundee? What does the future hold for Dundee FC? These are three key questions that shouldn't be ignored.
The out-going Chairman, Bob Brannan, has issued a rallying call for all Dark Blue fans to unite and get behind the team, support them both financially and emotionally otherwise the alternative would be grave for Dundee, almost terminal for the city's oldest professional football club. The budget is reduced this window and the squad has been trimmed. Mr Melville has pledged to help our cause for at least another year and we can only thank him for his marvellous contribution to this great club.
Promotion is a must this season and if we don't win promotion, then Dundee fans will have the right to ask: "When are we ever going to get out of this league?"

DEE4LIFE ISSUE STATEMENT

In response to Bob Brannan's open letter to Dundee supporters, Dee4Life have also issued a statement.

http://www.dundeefc.co.uk/news_detail.asp?ID=3253



Source: http://www.thedees.co.uk/

DEE CHAIRMAN ISSUES OPEN LETTER TO SUPPORTERS.

Out-going Dundee Chairman Bob Brannan has issued an open letter to the Dark Blue supporters.

http://www.dundeefc.co.uk/news_detail.asp?ID=3252



Source: http://www.thedees.co.uk/

SKELTON SET TO SIGN FOR DUNDEE!

Gavin Skelton, the brother of Blue Peter presenter Helen Skelton, is set to join Dundee after being released by Kilmarnock according to the Evening Telegraph. Talks are understood to have taken place between Gavin and Chisholm and it is hoped a deal is not too far away. The 29 year old midfielder would bring a wealth of experience to the Dundee midfield after spells with Gretna and Kilmarnock.


Source: http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/output/2010/05/19/story15087527t0.shtm


photo (c) http://www.teamtalk.com/

FOX FINDS NEW HOME AT DENS PARK!

Former Celtic goalkeeper Scott Fox has signed a pre-contract deal with Dundee. The 22 year old last played for Queen of the South on amatuer terms and one of the reasons why he has signed a pre-contract deal is because once he reaches his 23rd birthday, Celtic would have no claim for money if he signed professional terms with Dundee.






photo (c) http://www.bbc.co.uk/

Monday 17 May 2010

Transfer Rumours

Dundee have been heavily linked with Dunfermline Athletic striker, David Graham according to the Evening Telegraph. Gordon Chisholm is apparently an admirer and hopes to snatch him away from East End Park by offering Pat Clarke and Sean Higgins as bait.



Graham (in yellow) is contracted to the Pars until 2012.



photo (c) http://www.dafc.co.uk/

Scottish First Division 2010/11 table

1) Cowdenbeath
2) DUNDEE
3) Dunfermline Athletic
4) Falkirk
5) Greenock Morton
6) Queen of the South
7) Partick Thistle
8) Raith Rovers
9) Ross County
10) Stirling Albion

That above is the table for the start of season 2010/11.

Season Tickets 2010/11 now on sale!

Dundee have announced that their early bird season ticket scheme will launch on Monday 17th May. This early offer scheme will run until Sunday 13th June at 5pm.
Also, the board of directors have also added an incentive for season 2011/12 by selling the season tickets then at the same prices as this year.

Early Bird ticket prices:

Adult: £260

Senior citizen/student/U-16: £130

U-12: £40 (Includes membership to the Junior Dees)


For more information, go to:

http://www.thedees.co.uk/

Friday 14 May 2010

Queen of the South rebuff Dundee's advances.

Dundee have been rebuffed in their efforts for new players apparently. Queen of the South manager has admitted Dundee have been interested in Bob Harris and Paul Burns but that they were quite happy to stay at Palmerston this season.


http://www.dgstandard.co.uk/dumfries-sport/dumfries-football/queen-of-south-fc/2010/05/12/queens-squad-under-attack-from-dundee-coin-51311-26422501/

Ian Bodie

Ian Bodie has retired from the Dundee board. We would like to wish Ian all the best for the future and would like to thank him for his service as director at Dens.

Tuesday 11 May 2010

Transfer rumour update

TRANSFERS IN

Gary Irvine from St Johnstone has now been linked with a move to Dundee.








photo (c) http://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/

Sunday 9 May 2010

Bob Brannan to resign as Dundee Chairman

The price of failure at Dundee has resulted in the Chairman, Bob Brannan, falling on his own sword in the wake of Dundee's failed promotion bid. The former Rangers Chief Executive will continue to carry on as a director and will continue in the role as Chairman until a suitable successor is appointed.

Thursday 6 May 2010

Transfer talk.

OUTS:

Tony Bullock has signed a pre-contract agreement with Livingston and will join on a two year player/coach deal.
Derek Soutar has signed a deal with Cypriot side APEP Pitseilia which will last two years.

Dark Blue Forever would like to wish both Tony and Derek all the best in for the future with their new clubs.



TRANSFER RUMOURS:

Andy Graham from Stirling Albion has been strongly linked with Dundee FC. The 26 year old's contract expires in the summer and he is attracting a lot of attention, including SPL teams.
Michael Gardyne (Ross County) Derek Holmes (Queen of the South) Bob Harris (Queen of the South) have all been linked with a potential move to Dens Park this summer.

Wednesday 5 May 2010

Season 2009/10 review................ultimate disappointment.

Season 2009/10 was supposed to be the season for us, we bought players that were of real quality and there was a general buzz around Dens Park and the fans. Promotion was in our sights, as long as we knuckled down and worked hard-the First Division is a notoriously hard division in which to gain promotion. But now as I write this blog, Dundee finished the season in 2nd place, 9 points behind winners Inverness CT. So, what went wrong? Let's have a look back at the season that was 2009/10.


01/08/09: Dundee 5-0 Stranraer, League Cup First Round:  An accomplished start to the season with a rout of Stranraer at Dens Park. Leigh Griffiths managed to bag his first two goals for the Dark Blues.

08/08/09 Dundee 1-0 Morton: Dundee start their league campaign with a narrow 1-0 win against Greenock Morton.

15/08/09: Raith Rovers 2-2 Dundee: Dundee started the match well with Harkins converting an early penalty to give the Dark Blues the lead, Raith though hit back with two goals before a late Colin McMenamin goal managed to salvage a point for the Dark Blues in Kirkcaldy.

18/08/09: Cowdenbeath 0-3 Dundee: Emphatic win for the Dark Blues as Leigh Griffiths and Mickael Antoine Curier score the goals for Dundee in the Challenge Cup.

22/08/09: Dundee 2-2 ICT: An entertaining match ending in a draw between the two promotion favourites.

25/08/09: Forfar 2-4 Dundee, League Cup second round: Dundee narrowly squeeze through to the next round in a very difficult match at Station Park.

to be continued..............................

Tuesday 4 May 2010

Chisholm looks to the future as he seeks to bring in new faces.

Gordon Chisholm admits that change is needed at Dens if the Dark Blues are wanting to succeed next season in gaining promotion to the SPL. On Monday, he told 15 players that they were no longer required. However today he was a bit more philisophical in his attitude to new players arriving. Speaking to the Evening Telegraph he said:
"“Obviously, we’ve spoken to a couple of boys about coming here next season, but it’s early days — the Premier League hasn’t finished yet — so I’ll take my time"
“I’d like to have everyone in for the start of pre-season training on June 25, but I’ll be selective and, if it takes a bit longer, then so be

Also, the players that are staying at the club have undergone fitness tests at Dundee University and have all been given a schedule in order to keep themselves fit over the next eight weeks or so.
 
Source http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/ 
 

Monday 3 May 2010

Chis wields the axe over 15 players!

Gordon Chisholm had the hard task today in informing 15 members of the playing staff that they are no longer required at Dens Park. Derek Soutar, Tony Bullock, Eddie Malone, Jim Lauchlan, David Cowan, Gary MacKenzie, Colin Cameron, Darren Young and Bob Malcolm are all out of contract and were informed they would not be getting new ones. Loanees Ryan O'Leary, Andrew Shinnie and Ben Hutchinson have been told they can go back to their parent clubs, whilst Richie Hart, Maros Klimpl, Brian Kerr, Chris Casement and Brian Deasley have been told they can all find new clubs. Speaking to DFC Online, Gordon Chisholm admitted it was a difficult job in telling the players:
"It's been a difficult day, there are good pros amongst the guys who I've had to let go, but this place needs change if we are going to get to where we want to be."
"It's really not a nice thing to do and I'd like to thank them for their efforts in Dundee's colours."

Jim Lauchlan, Player of the Year.

Congratulations to Jim Lauchlan, who was voted  Dundee player of the year.

We would like to wish him all the best for the future and that he
manages to get a new club.






photo (c) http://www.thedees.co.uk/

Inverness 1-0 Dundee

ICT finished the season with a win over Dundee on the day the Caley Jags recieved the First Division trophy at the Caledonian Stadium. An Adam Rooney effort was the only goal of the game as the Highlanders enjoyed a promotion party at the expense of second place Dundee.

Teams:

ICT: Esson, Bulvitis, Tokely, Munro, Golabek, Cox, Duncan, Ross (Eagle 73), Hayes (Morrison 85), Rooney, Odhiambo (Sanchez 62).



Subs Not Used: Allison, McBain
 
Goal: Rooney 28
 
 
 
DUNDEE:Soutar, Hart, Forsyth, Benedictis, McKeown, O'Leary, Shinnie (Hutchinson 67), Kerr (Young 74), Harkins, McMenamin, Higgins (Clarke 67).


Subs Not Used: Geddes, McHale
 
Attendance 6,031
 
 
 

Tuesday 27 April 2010

Dundee 2-0 Raith Rovers

Dens Park Stadium, Dundee: Saturday 24th April 2010 3pm kick-off.
Dundee finished their home fixtures this season with a win over Raith Rovers. Raith, whom had beaten the Dark Blues during the week at Starks, were coming into this game knowing that they will be returning to Dens Park next season in the First Division. Goals from Sean Higgins and Gary Harkins was enough to seal the points for the Dees. Raith hade few chances and those were brilliantly saved by Derek Soutar who was still feeling the effects of illness during the game. It was a superb kick from Sean Higgins which opened the scoring in the 52nd minute. A penalty was the route Dundee's second goal came from and it was Gary Harkins who did the honours by blasting his spot kick into the net in the 64th minute. Raith's misery was completed in the 84th minute when  David Armstrong was sent off in the 84th minute with his second bookable offence.

Teams:

DUNDEE:Soutar, Lauchlan, McKeown, O'Leary, Paton, Shinnie, Kerr, Harkins, Forsyth, McMenamin, Higgins
Subs Not Used: Geddes, Hutchinson, Clarke, Hart, Klimpl


Raith Rovers: McGurn, Murray, Hill, Armstrong, Ferry, Walker, Williamson (Sloan 62), Davidson, Russell (Smith 70), Tade, Mole (Simmons 46).


Subs Not Used: O'Connor, Shields
 
 
Attendance: 3,187

Thursday 22 April 2010

Dundee embarrassed at Raith as Inverness CT are crowned First Division Champions.

Raith Rovers 1-0 Dundee. Starks Park, Kirkcaldy, Wednesday 21st April 2010

A goal midway through the second half from Dougie Hill was enough to seal all three points for Raith who have eased their relegation play-off  worries slightly. It was another inept performance by Dundee who going into this game still had a very faint chance of winning the division. Dundee needed a win and anything less would hand the First Division title to Inverness CT.  Dundee created very few attacking opportunities and when they did, Raith did very well to defend and goalkeeper McGurn was comfortable in the saves he had to make. The only real bit of excitement for Dundee fans was the introduction of 49 year old Bobby Geddes who replaced an injured Tony Bullock in goal. It was a defensive mistake that allowed Dougie Hill to score from a corner and no fault can be placed upon Bobby Geddes. In fact, he kept Dundee in the game and the scoreline could have been far greater for the Kirkcaldy side if Geddes hadn't made a few fantastic saves in the last quarter of the game. You wouldn't have thought that Raith were the team struggling with a fixture pile up and fighting a relegation battle, that was more like Dundee. With the final whistle ringing out at Kirkcaldy, cue scenes of delight in the houses of Inverness CT fans who were now celebrating a return to the SPL where they were relegated from last year. As for Dundee fans, it was a bitter pill to take.


Teams

Raith: McGurn, Murray, Armstrong, Hill, Ferry, Williamson, Davidson (Sloan 85), Walker, Russell (Smith 71), Mole (Shields 90), Tade.
 Subs Not Used: O'Connor, Gathuessi.

Goal: Hill 54


DUNDEE:  Bullock (Geddes 27), Paton, McKeown, Lauchlan, Forsyth, Hart, O'Leary, Klimpl (Hutchinson 61), Harkins, Clarke, Higgins (McMenamin 61).
Subs Not Used: Shinnie, Kerr.


Attendance 1,544

Tuesday 20 April 2010

Bobby Geddes in goal for game against Raith?

He maybe 49 and hair slightly greying but that won't stop Dundee Goalkeeping coach Bobby Geddes being in goal tommorow night against Raith Rovers at Starks Park if Tony Bullock and Derek Soutar are not fit in time. It leaves a bit of a crisis for Chisholm who is also looking at the option of recalling young John Gibson who is currently on loan at Elgin City. Speaking to the Evening Telegraph, he said:
"We’ll see how Tony and Derek are tomorrow and it may be the case that the fittest one will have to play"
**Meanwhile Leigh Griffiths is out for the rest of the season with an ankle injury.




quotes http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/output/2010/04/20/story14913277t0.shtm

Dundee's promotion dream dashed at Cappielow as draw is not enough.

Greenock 2-2 Dundee: Cappielow, Greenock, Saturday 17th April 2010.

Dundee boss Gordon Chisholm has laid down the gauntlet to his struggling players that their jobs are on the line after a poor 2-2 draw with Greenock Morton. Dundee fell behind in the 41st minute when on loan Hearts player David Witteveen pounced to strike the ball home.  Chisholm changed things at half-time and McMenamin and Shinnie were replaced by Clarke and Higgins as Dundee went in search for the equaliser. Dundee though were dicing with danger as Morton had two good chances to score their second but couldn't find the net. A long ball over the top in the 64th minute  however spread panic in the Dundee defence and when Witteveen was in the box, veteran defender Jim Lauchlan pulled the Hearts loanee and the referee had no choice but to point to the spot. Up stepped Carlo Monti who executed the penalty well and guided Morton to a 2-0 lead. News was filtering through from Inverness that Caley had scored a second goal against Dunfermline and Dundee fans were disheartened as that was probably the league over. On the pitch the lack of fight and guile from the Dark Blues was evident. However in the 67 minute, the Dark Blues got themselves into the match. A throw in found Gary Harkins and he knocked the ball home. Morton 2-1 Dundee. Dundee then began to push and push for the equaliser but nothing was coming off for them. Morton had chances of their own the kill the game off but couldn't take them. Leigh Griffiths began to look more dangerous and he had various chances to bring the sides level but failed to make the most of the chances he had. The spurned chances by the youngster did not pray on his mind however. With 5 minutes remaining, Dundee won a free kick 20 yards from goal. Griffiths was on the touchline recieving some treatment for a knock but quickly gathered his wits together and insisted he take the freekick. He curled the ball into the net beating the keeper. Morton 2-2 Dundee. Dundee kept pushing but couldn't find the winner.

Teams:

Morton: Stewart, McGuffie, Greacen, Shimmin, Reid, Finlayson, Paartalu, Tidser, Monti, Witteveen, Weatherson (Simmons 78).


Subs Not Used: Cuthbert, Graham, MacGregor, Masterton
 
Goals: Witteveen 41, Monti pen 64
 
DUNDEE:Bullock, McKeown, Lauchlan, O'Leary, Paton, Kerr (Cameron 61), Harkins, Shinnie (Higgins 46), Malone, McMenamin (Clarke 46), Griffiths.


Subs Not Used: Soutar, Hart.
 
Goals: Harkins 67, Griffiths 86
 
 
Attendance: 1,998
 
 
An unhappy Gordon Chisholm spoke to the BBC after the match.
 
""Considering what we were playing for, I was really disappointed."The players were told the one thing they would get is a physical game and they didn't handle that. I thought we got bullied. Unbelievably, we weren't up for the fight in the first 45. It wasn't until we went 2-0 down that we thought we better start playing.
But to show that lack of urgency and determination like that in the first half is unacceptable."

 
According to various newspaper reports, Gordon is about to axe at least 10 players come the end of the season who are out of contract. Jim Lauchlan, Tony Bullock and Eddie Malone are all being linked with the exodus.


(Chisholm quotes: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_div_1/8624003.stm)

Saturday 10 April 2010

Partick Thistle 0-1 Dundee

Dundee followed up their good win last week against by beating Partick Thistle a Firhill this afternoon. It was the 4th time this season that Dundee have picked up full points against Thistle and it keeps Dundee's title dreams alive. Pat Clarke scored the winning goal in the 75th minute after coming on as a substitute.

Wednesday 7 April 2010

Big Rab out for rest of season.

Rab Douglas is out for the rest of the season as he is due to go for surgery on a troublesome knee. It has been confirmed that both knees will require treatment and Gordon Chisholm is hoping that Rab will be back for the start of pre-season training.

Photo (c) http://www.thedees.co.uk/

Tuesday 6 April 2010

Inverness CT win whilst Ross County drop points.


Inverness CT beat Morton 2-0 at Cappielow to open up a seven point gap over Dundee whilst Ross County could only draw with Queen of the South 1-1.

.

Monday 5 April 2010

"Cowboy" departs Clyde

Although not a piece of Dundee news, it does have a Dundee link.
After 4 months in charge of Second Division strugglers Clyde, John McCormack has left his post as manager. Initially, the fomer Dark Blues manager was appointed as ex Dundee player John Brown's assitant. However John was relieved of his duties in Novemeber last year and John McCormack was appointed Bully Wee boss. Clyde are currently 13 points adrift at the bottom of the Second Division after a rocky season which has seen the Cumbernauld side slip further in mediocrity. John had to build a side that after a mass player exodus was neccessary in order for them to avoid administration but the squad has been lacklustre and now find themselves in dire straights. Neil Watt, Director of Football at Clyde, will take charge of Clyde until the end of the season.

Dark Blue Forever would like to wish John "Cowboy" McCormack all the best for the future.


Photo (c) http://www.clydefc.co.uk/

Ally Gunn RIP

Dark Blue Forever were saddened to hear of the passing of former Dundee FC player Ally Gunn. He played in the post war era at Dens and made over 137 appearances for the Dark Blues.

We would like to extend our sincere condolences to Ally's family.

Saturday 3 April 2010

Dundee 3-0 Ayr United

Heroes: Colin and Sean

A very confident and polished Dundee performance saw Gordon Chisholm claim his first win as Dundee boss as Dundee ran out comfortable 3-0 winners against a lacklustre Ayr United. Dundee started the game with a bit of purpose and determination that was lacking in recent games. The Dark Blues took the lead after 12 minutes when a wonderful ball through from Brian Kerr found Colin McMenamin who was strong enough to shrug of the challenge of the Ayr defender and he casually placed a shot past the keeper and into the bottom corner of the net. 12 minutes later, Dundee were two up. A clever run by Andrew Shinnie saw him felled by an Ayr player at the edge of the box. Up stepped Sean Higgins who glided the ball into the far corner of the net leaving the keeper with no chance, fantastic goal. Dundee should have put the game to bed before half-time with two great chances by Harkins, one of which hit the bar. Dundee were coasting at the break.
Second half and it was more of the same from Dundee. The good crisp passing was still on display and as an attacking unit, looked very threatening everytime they went forward. Dundee though lost Gary Harkins early in the second half with a deadleg and was replaced by Colin Cameron. Dundee attacked and attacked but luck intervened on Dundee's part and chances went abegging, not for the want of trying though. The third goal was on the cards and it was a matter of time. It eventually came just after the hour mark when McMenamin headered the ball into the net at the far post afer a long throw. Dundee still venture forth and tried to get a 4th goal but it didn't come. Still, it was a terrific performance by the Dark Blues and it was a good performance that also saw Chisholm chalk his first win as Dundee manager.



Teams:

DUNDEE: 3-5-2

Bullock, Lauchlan, McKeown, O'Leary, Hart, Shinnie, Kerr, Harkins (Cameron 48) Malone, Higgins (Hutchinson 80) McMenamin

Unused subs, Soutar, Malcolm, Forsyth

Goals: McMenamin 12,60 Higgins 21


Ayr United: 4-4-2



 Samson, Mitchell, Aitken, Campbell (Easton 64), LaffertyKeenan (Kenny Connolly, 70), McGowan, Bowey, Visconte (Gibson 45) Roberts, McManus
Unused subs; Grindlay, Anton Connolly


Attendance 4270


Photo (c) http://www.thedees.co.uk/