DUFC

TOMMO FIT FOR TOMORROW

28th October 2002

Following Saturday's lost opportunity to break away from the bottom of the SPL table, coach Paul Hegarty commented: "It was obviously most disappointing to concede in the dying minutes of the match having defended the lead throughout the game. The equaliser came from an attempt that should have been dealt with outside the box, but we did not handle the situation well at all and lost those two crucial points."

"On the positive side, I am delighted with the attitude of players in midfield and attack. The defence still has to become more reliable and disciplined and stay so for the whole 90 minutes."

There was good news today for the Tangerines' prospects with regard to tomorrow's CIS Cup tie away to Airdrie United. Steven Thompson, who sustained an injury in Saturday's game, has responded very well to the physiotherapy treatment administered over the last two days and is more than likely to start the match. Hegarty maintained: "Especially the way Steven has been playing of late makes him a vital player in these important games."

Looking ahead to tonight's Under-21s action versus Dunfermline at Tannadice (kick-off: 7.00pm), Hegarty stated: "We will be fielding a mix of youth and experience, including Stephen Carson, Tassos Venetis, Arnar Gunnlauggsson, Allan Smart and David Winters. We are looking forward immensely to the match hoping some players can prove what they are capable of and maybe earn their inclusion in the pool or perhaps even in the 16 for tomorrow's match."