Dumbarton FC players back to action early

Jun 26 2009 by Andy Galloway, Lennox Herald (main ed)

DUMBARTON’S players returned to action a week early on Saturday with an informal training session at Levengrove Park.

Pre-season training officially starts this Saturday but, due to skipper Gordon Lennon’s tragic death, the squad re-grouped sooner.

Boss Jim Chapman said: “The players came in on Saturday and that was a credit to them. It wasn’t an official training session, but they wanted to come in early after what has happened.

“It was an opportunity to get the ball out and play football, and to have a chat and try to get back to normal.

“It’s been a very upsetting time for everybody, but I hope our players can take something from the strength and courage shown by Gordon’s family.

“We officially return next Saturday, with some new additions along the way. Hopefully we will add further to the squad before we start training.”

Jim has already signed Berwick striker Darren Gribben and Elgin City midfielder Ross O’Donoghue for the new season.

And he is keen on Partick Thistle midfielder Scott Chaplain, who was third division player of the year under the gaffer at Albion Rovers, but admits that Chaplain’s desire for full-time football may prevent a move.

Meanwhile, defender Pat Boyle looks set to sign for Motherwell after a successful second half of last season with Sons.

Jim said: “Darren has an eye for goal, as he demonstrated last season with all the goals he scored for Berwick.

“I have known him since his days as a teenager at Hamilton Accies and I know he has fantastic ability. He wants a bigger challenge and will add quality in front of goal.

“Ross is a very good midfielder who is capable of destroying opponents’ possession. He is a very brave player with a good footballing brain.

“He will add to what we have in the midfield and I do not think we will be lacking in strength in that area this season.

“The hunt will continue for a replacement for Pat and also now, sadly, for a new option on the right side of the defence.

“I wouldn’t say it’s any secret that I’m an admirer of Scott Chaplain, not just in terms of his ability, but as a person as well.

“But he’s coming from full-time football, and all we can do is put our plans forward. If an opportunity to stay full-time came along, I am certain he would take it.”