Dundee 3
Hamilton Academical 0
League Cup (1st Round)

Manager's Programme Notes

Unfortunately Saturday's first game of the season here at Dens brought nothing but disappointment.

I was surprised and mystified to say the very least at the way we played against Hibs especially in light of the fact that we attracted a healthy crowd.

It's clear that there is a fresh upsurge in interest among our fans and after Saturday I'm obviously concerned that we haven't destroyed that renewed interest with this very bad performance. The showing of the players was all the more astounding when you consider that everything as regards preparation for the new campaign has been absolutely first class.

They have looked good in training, they were impressive during our German tour and the per formances at Arbroath and at Pittodrie suggested that the team had a lot to offer in terms of skill and determination.

But on Saturday they never got off the starting blocks and the outcome was a bitter disappointment for one and all.

It's understandable that the six new players who were taking part in their first game for us at Dens Park should be allowed time to settle and I hope that the supporters bear this in mind and continue to give us every encouragement

For despite, Saturday's setback I remain convinced that these are all good players with something to offer this club and given time to settle I'm sure they'll come up with the goods. There is nothing complicated about the problem we had on Saturday - it was just a case of good players failing to do themselves justice with the result that everyone – themselves included - felt let-down at time up.

I Believe that nerves had something to do with it as they were all anxious to please in the first home game and I can promise you that all the players are determined to get tonight's game underway so that they can atone for Saturday.

We can't of course expect any favours from Hamilton Accies as the new format of the League Cup offers Hamilton and many like them the opportunity to earn a reputation as giant killers.

I'm delighted that this competition now offers the excite ment of the sudden death tie and I believe it gives this club a great opportunity to do well. I'm sure John Lambie will have Accies well organised and while they will probably be content to frustrate us and do something on the break we must be professional enough to make sure that we go into tonight's draw.

Finally, in underlining our eagerness to make up for Satur day, I would ask the fans to continue to give us every backing, The support we've had so far this season has been terrific and everyone here at Dens Park is committed to living up to it and giving the fans the results they deserve.