Ayr United 1
Dundee 0
League (First Division)

Match Report

Newspaper extract from The Sunday Post.

Lawrie Williams, signed on a temporary transfer from Dumbarton; had a rough baptism for Dundee in this rip-roaring top of the table clash.

The new 'keeper scarcely had a chance to get to know his Dens' team-mates before he had to save them from going a goal behind.

Christie and Morris combined well before the latter sent in a strong shot which the 'keeper did well to block.

Dundee replied immediately. Geddes beat Nichol on the right flank before sending over an enticing cross which eluded 'keeper Rennie but failed to find any dark blue shirts at the far post.

United took the lead in the 31st minute and it was Jim Fleeting playing the true captain's part. His first effort cannoned off the Dundee defence and when it rebounded back to him he blasted an unstoppable shot past Williams.

Ayr were now in full flight as they went looking for a second goal, and a strong Morris header, from a Christie cross, crashed against the bar, much to the relief of the Dens men.

Dundee were less fortunate five minutes later. Jim Shirra, booked earlier for a feud with McColl, was dramatically sent off in the 40th minute.

The blonde midfielder handled, so technically the referee after his earlier offence, had no option but to send him packing.

It was now an uphill struggle for ten man Dundee, but courageously they fought back, giving as good as they got.

Indeed, the Dark Blues were desperately unlucky not to equalise in 65 minutes. Centre forward Sinclair shook off the United defence, but his delicate cross was met by Stephen who headed against the underside of the bar before the ball was easily booted clear.

Dundee now threw caution to the wind, taking off defender Barr for forward Murphy, they as desperately chased the equaliser.

However, Ayr managed to hold out to avenge the recent League Cup defeat and put the pressure on at the top of the table.