DUFC 2 GMFC 1

So the latest in a long line of revolutions at Tannadice occurred during the now closed transfer window and the team has been drastically changed. Only 5 of the 14 players used were at the club prior to the January window opening and that tells the story of where we've been as a club this season.

So how did the new boys do? Well, in the first half they were terrific and it was as enjoyable 45 minutes at Tannadice as I've had in a good while. We played with an attacking verve that had us carve them open time and time again.

The second half was a struggle though, and it was obvious that fitness is an issue with the new boys. Most of them flagged badly as the game wore on and we were holding on by the end.

I'll do player ratings for the team with comment:

Siegrist - 7 - I think he did quite well to be honest. He was commanding in his box and came for most balls in the air, which is always appreciated by his defenders.

Seaman - 6 - got forward very well in the first half and it was notable that he was always looking to get up the park.

Reynolds - 7 - captain on his debut, I thought he gave us a solidity and a vocal presence.

Connolly - 7 - another vocal presence, which makes a big difference from the quiet players we're used to. Received a warm cheer when he berated Smith and Booth for letting a cross get into the box, which tells a story about how quiet we normally are.

Booth - 4 - I thought he was really good in the first half but then was awful in the second.

Pawlett - 8 - I thought when I first saw him he was looking slightly heavy, and it told in the second half when he fell out the game. But first half he was sensational and capped it with what turned out to be the winner. Some great runs, some terrific passes and a goal. Fantastic.

Smith - 6 - he's still struggling to make an impact since signing from St Mirren and I'm not sure a wide role is the best one for him. A wee bit concerned about this signing.

Butcher - 8 - I was sceptical when he was signed but I thought he was excellent. Again he was a vocal presence in the middle of the park and he dropped in to protect the defence brilliantly. Went off with tight hamstrings and we missed him.

Harkes - 8 - I thought the young American was terrific. He controlled the game for long spells and looked very assured with his passing. He could be a terrific signing.

Clark - 6 - I don't think he played badly but I don't feel the role he's playing is the right one. He's being asked to play behind Safranko but for me he's a penalty box player. I thought he was frequently on the periphery of the game.

Safranko - 7 - got the important opener (that might have been going in) and should have got more imo.

Subs

Fyvie - 2 - horrible introduction to the game, where he twice made horrendous back passes, the second leading to Morton's goal. Unfit.

Nesbitt - 2 - he's got something but I suspect he's either going to be brilliant or hopeless. I'm also not sure he's suited to a wide role in a 442.

Sow - 2 - I was keen to see him but he doesn't look fit. If we do get him fit and sort out his first touch he'll be a monster in this league. Excited to see what he'll bring.


All in all there were plenty of positive signs for going forward, and a few things that still need to be worked on, not least the fitness of the new boys.

Mon the Terrors