Clydebank 4-0 Dumbarton
McHugh 23’, McLaughlin 64’, Docherty 78’, Munn (OG) 90’
Clydebank produced a near-perfect display to win the first competitive derby against Dumbarton in 25 years and finish top of the KDM Evolution Trophy group phase.
There was a clear sense of anticipation at Holm Park before kick-off as the long-awaited West Dunbartonshire derby drew near. The sold-out crowd produced a great atmosphere from start to finish.
Dumbarton started the brighter of the two teams and had the better of the opening 10 minutes but did not trouble the Clydebank goalkeeper.
Clydebank then came close to opening the scoring, but their header was saved from point-blank range. This sparked Clydebank into life, and they dominated the game from that point on.
The deadlock was broken just after twenty minutes after a superb cross from Nicky Low was finished brilliantly by McHugh, who knocked the ball into the ground and over the ‘keeper.
Low would continue to find pockets of space throughout the game, constantly picking out his teammates with passes of the highest quality. His performance was matched by Neil McLaughlin up front, who produced several high quality moments himself while keeping both Dumbarton centre backs occupied with his brilliant hold-up play.
Half time came and went and it was more of the same from the Bankies. McLaughlin got a richly deserved goal after the hour mark. The striker was first to a rebound after a long-range effort hit the post and headed the ball into an empty net.
The game was stopped briefly in the second half due to fireworks being thrown on the pitch. This was the one downside to an otherwise great night of football.
Docherty provided the icing on the cake with a cultured finish from just outside the box to kill the game completely. In injury time, a curling effort bounced off of Dumbarton defender Dunn and into his own net to add insult to injury for the Sons.
Clydebank fans will be looking forward to their second round Scottish Cup tie against Tranent Rovers after a performance well worthy of being an SPL-quality side. Dumbarton host Stirling Albion this coming Saturday and will be hoping to get back to winning ways after a disappointing derby display.
