Arbroath | Matchday Programme 08

DUNDEE UNITED VS ARBROATH 7.45PM FRIDAY 27 OCTOBER 2023 CINCH CHAMPIONSHIP TANNADICE PARK

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DIRECTORY Dundee United Football Club, Tannadice Park, Dundee, DD3 7JW TELEPHONE NUMBER 01382833166 Option 1 - Ticketing Option 2 - Commercial Option 3 - Retail EMAIL communications@dundeeunitedfc.co.uk WEBSITE ADDRESSES Home - www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk DUTV - www.tv.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk Shop - www.shop.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk DUCT - www.dundeeunitedct.co.uk ADDRESS BOOK Chairman MARK OGREN Vice-Chairman SCOTT OGREN Director JIMMY FYFFE Chief Executive LUIGI CAPUANO Chief Operations Officer JOE RICE Finance Director JAMES ROBERTSON

FOOTBALL DEPARTMENT Manager JIM GOODWIN Assistant Manager LEE SHARP First-Team Coach DAVID BOWMAN Head of Goalkeeping PAUL MATHERS Head of Football Operations ROSS STARKE Head of Player Care NIALL NICHOLSON Head of Medical MARCIN SZOSTAK First Team Analyst AIDAN CROLL First Team Sports Scientist EWAN ANDERSON First Team Physiotherapist GREGOR PIRIE Strength and Conditioning Coach ALLAN GARTSHORE Club Doctors DR DAVID NICOLL DR STEPHEN GALBRAITH Kit Manager ANDREW BRYAN Assistant Kit Man FINLAY MCNICOLL Head of Player Pathway BRIAN GRANT Head Chef DUMINDA EKANYAKE

COMMERCIAL AND HOSPITALITY Head of Commercial and Sponsorship ELLIOT SHAW Commercial Sales Manager DECLAN PRIDDING Hospitality and Events Sales Manager LAUREN COCKBURN Catering & Bar Operations Manager JOHN RICHARDSON STADIUM OPERATIONS Safety Officer and Head of Facilities and Stadium Operations CHRIS GARLAND MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS Head of Media MARK MCCREERY Head of Marketing LUKE BAIN Content Producer YANNIS MARR Club Photographer RICHARD WISEMAN TICKETING AND RETAIL Ticket Office Manager MOIRA HUGHES Head of Retail STUART BOOTLAND CONTRIBUTORS SUB-EDITOR: PETER RUNDO RYAN HALDANE LEE SMITH MIKE WATSON

Image: Richard Wiseman

For one night only! Introducing our ‘United for 100 Years’ Anniversary Kit - set to be worn exclusively at Tannadice Park in tonight’s cinch Championship clash with Arbroath.

Reminiscent of shirts from a bygone era, the piece will pay homage to our origin story, exactly one century on from the club’s inaugural match as Dundee United.

Modelled on the look sported by the first players who took to the field to represent Dundee United, the shirt’s body features an all-white design. The buttoned collar continues the nod to the past, positioned above our front-of-shirt sponsor and principal partner Bartercard UK’s contemporary logo.

A whiteout club crest sits opposite Italian manufacturer Errea’s stylish emblem, with further onbrand detailing from Spaces Taylored, JF Kegs and Quinn Casino completing a majestic set of unique decals.

OWN A PIECE OF HISTORY We’re offering fans the chance to secure this player-issue-only kit through our auction partner, MatchWornShirt.

Inspired by Dundee United Community Trust’s heart-warming “Football Memories” initiative, a share of the proceeds from the auction profits will go directly to Dundee United Community Trust to assist them in continuing to deliver the vast and vital projects in the local community.

Bidding will commence at kick-off on Friday and will run for seven days. Remember, this is the only way of getting your hands on one of these truly exclusive anniversary shirts, so don’t miss out!

bid here

A LESS THAN AUSPICIOUS START One hundred years ago to the day, Dundee Hibs morphed into Dundee United, but despite being such a seismic moment, in what were very different days, press coverage of such a historic event was minimal at best.

Mind you, the saga of the pending name change had been going on since the start of the season following the club’s successful re-election to the Scottish League after a season spent in the Alliance League in which Hibs struggled against First Division reserve sides.

Indeed, agreement with Dundee FC on the name change had been agreed ten days earlier and only the rubber-stamping of the change was required. Whilst the Prince of Wales in the city to officially open the Caird Hall occupied column inches, parochially, awaiting official sanction ahead of Saturday’s trip to Boghead to fulfil a Second Division fixture weighed much more heavily on the minds of Tannadice officials.

The Evening Telegraph of Friday 26 October animated that the long wait was nearly over, and that confirmation was imminent. Nevertheless, the following day’s Courier still listed the Boghead-bound team as Dundee Hibs.

However, by kick-off, the Sons found themselves facing Dundee United, but it certainly didn’t prove to be a gala occasion! At least the curtain on Dundee Hibs the previous week had come down victoriously, bowing out a Forthbank with a 3-2 win over Kings Park.

Though the name may have changed, the personnel certainly did not as Manager Jimmy Brownlie entrusted the eleven to secure an inaugural success under the ‘United’ banner.

But the fledgling steps of United proved to be faltering ones against the Sons of the Rock.

One thing is for sure, the game didn’t exactly captivate the paying public. Indeed, the counter-attraction of local rivals Dumbarton Harp’s fifth-round Qualifying Scottish Cup tie with Queen of the South proved detrimental to the Boghead gate.

According to reports, less than five hundred were present at the start and even by the end numbers did not exceed two thousand!

Those present from the start witnessed United have very much the better of the early proceedings.

The Tannadice forwards were carrying a far greater threat than their home counterparts and really should have turned around in the ascendancy.

Both Sandy Gilmour (pictured) and Bobby McEwan passed up good openings early on.

James Cottingham was another sinner in front of goal as United enjoyed their best period of play. Certainly, Arthur King in the home goal was the busier of the two ‘keepers.

However, as that first period progressed, the home side became more influential in proceedings, culminating in them going ahead eight minutes from half-time. Player/ boss Jimmy Brownlie failed to clear Newman’s rising shot and Philip Kennedy rushed in to score the first goal conceded by newly-named United.

Ironically, that counter came whilst the visitors were temporarily reduced to ten men as Bob McEwan was back in the pavilion, ‘getting repaired’ as the reporter of the day so quaintly described it. United’s sparkling start was but a distant memory after the interval as Dumbarton dominated.

Rather cruelly, The Evening Telegraph reported, “In the second half, there was nothing about the United display to write home about.”

Unlike the first, King hardly troubled, whilst Brownlie ‘held the fort for some time’.

However, 20 minutes from the end, he was beaten by Andrew Mair’s low long-range shot as the hosts doubled their lead. Then in the closing stages, Thomas Love drilled home goal number three, thereby compounding that bitterly disappointing second-half display.

A fact explicitly endorsed by the Tele scribe. He wrote, “United’s second-half display was the worst seen at Boghead this season.”

Player/boss Brownlie, middleman John Swan and winger James Mackie and Gilmour got pass marks on a desperately disappointing afternoon.

That it was an inauspicious start, there is no denying, and the Evening Telegraph reporter’s frank appraisal read, “On Saturday’s second-half display, Dundee United will have to show marked improvement if they are ever to reach the upper circle.”

Fortunately, the managerial shrewdness of Brownlie ensured that less than two years later, United were playing in the First Division, and the rest, as they say, is history.

TANNADICE TIMELINE MAY 1909 When newly-formed Dundee Hibernian took over the lease of Clepington Park it had been, literally, stripped bare by its disgruntled former tenants, Dundee Wanderers.

CLOSE SEASON 1953 The north terracing – where the George Fox Stand is today – was fully concreted.

SUMMER 1909 Work went on at a pace to build a new two-storey pavilion containing dressing rooms, committee rooms, press box and referee’s room.

Everything was completed in time for Hibs’ first match on 18 August, when the opponents were Hibernian from Edinburgh.

NOVEMBER 1909

CLOSE SEASON 1957

SEPTEMBER 1957

The 1200-seat timber stand was completed.

The west end of the ground was concreted and a start was made to create a covered enclosure.

The Shed was completed. Its roof is the only current link with the ground as it was prior to promotion in 1960.

CLOSE SEASON 1925 Extensive renovations were undertaken ahead of the club’s first season in the top-flight of Scottish football. The pitch was levelled out and re-turfed, new drains were laid, facilities in the pavilion were modernised, proper terracing was constructed (using railway sleepers) and new turnstiles were installed.

CLOSE SEASON 1951 Concrete blocks were laid on the north terracing to replace the wooden sleepers and cinder banking.

AUTUMN 1958

MAY 1961

SPRING 1962

Concreting of the east terracing was completed.

After 52 years, the old stand was demolished as work started on transforming Tannadice.

The new stand takes shape.

AUGUST 1962

CLOSE SEASON 1985

AUGUST 1997

The new cantilever stand (known as the Main Stand) was officially opened along with the extended north terracing. Most of the cost was met by donations from Taypools, the organisation established in 1956 to raise funds for the club.

Undersoil heating was installed.

The final piece of the jigsaw came with the opening of the rebuilt Fair Play Stand, bringing the Stadium capacity up to 14,209 at a cost of more than £6 million.

NOVEMBER 1962

AUTUMN 1988 The Fair Play Enclosure was opened; it was funded by FIFA’s Fair Play Award in recognition of the remarkable reception given by Arabs to IFK Gothenburg following the UEFA Cup final the previous year.

Floodlights illuminated a match at Tannadice for the first time.

JULY 2003 The original Main Stand was renamed the Jerry Kerr Stand in recognition of the manager who established the club in the top-flight.

MARCH 2008 AUGUST 1965

The East Stand became the Eddie Thompson Stand as a tribute to the then club owner and chairman.

The enclosure under the main stand was opened.

AUGUST 1992 The George Fox Stand was opened with, a capacity of 5,147.

JULY 1980

AUGUST 1994

The north terracing covered enclosure was opened. Its existence was short-lived, being demolished in 1991 as work began to make Tannadice an all-seated stadium.

The East Stand was completed, and seats were installed in the Shed, meaning Tannadice complied with the all-seated requirements.

THROUGH THE TROPHIES FIVE MAJOR HONOURS

• Scottish Premier Division Champions - 1982/83 • Scottish Cup Winners - 1994 and 2010 • Scottish League Cup Winners - 1979/80 and 1980/81

THE EARLY DAYS

Today is a landmark occasion in our history, marking exactly 100 years since the first match played by Dundee United. Until then the club had been known as Dundee Hibernian and throughout the season we’re looking back at meetings between visiting clubs and the Hibs.

With many of those opponents choosing a match to feature is straightforward, because there are so few. But that’s certainly not the case with Arbroath, because during their short history Dundee Hibs played against the Red Lichties more often than against any other club – 32 times in total, 13 of them in the Forfarshire Cup. Dundee Hibernian was founded in 1909 and just a year later, following intensive campaigning by secretary/manager Pat Reilly and his committee members, the new club was elected to the Scottish League. It was an astonishing feat, not least because it was achieved ahead of nearby rivals Arbroath, Dunfermline and St Johnstone, all of which had existed for more than 25 years. In Arbroath’s case, it was 32 years!

Despite not meeting in a Scottish League match until 1921, the Greens and the Red Lichties faced each other in eleven of the fifteen seasons of Dundee Hibernian’s existence.

The first-ever meeting between Arbroath and Dundee Hibs was only the third game played by the new club. It came at Gayfield Park on 25 August 1909 and was a benefit match – in aid of the Arbroath Artisan Golf Club!

The Hibs won that 2-0 but three months later the clubs again met at Gayfield, this time in the Carrie Cup. It was not a knock-out competition as its other name, the Forfarshire League, suggests. So the 3-3 draw did not mean a replay, although when the clubs met in t­­he return at Tannadice in January the Hibs won 2-1 and at the end of the season they lifted the Carrie Cup, the club’s first-ever trophy.

In those early years, the main competitive focus of Dundee Hibs and Arbroath was the Forfarshire Cup (Arbroath were the first winners, beating Dundee Harp in 1884). Both were often contenders for the trophy and indeed their first four contests were in the final. An average of 1500 watched the Hibs at Tannadice in Division Two in season 1910-11, so the importance attached to the county cup can be gauged by the fact that three special trains brought the Arbroath supporters to Dens Park for the 1911 final, where the crowd exceeded 7000.

The Hibs won the trophy for the first time with the only goal, but three years later Arbroath gained revenge. On that occasion 8000 were at Dens Park for a close-fought 1-1 draw and a week later no less than 9000 saw Arbroath win 2-1 to lift the cup for a tenth time.

Dundee Hibs re-claimed the trophy in 1915, beating Arbroath 2-0 (again at Dens Park) but the most remarkable clash between the clubs in the Forfarshire Cup came not in a final, but in the first round.

It’s impossible these days, but in February and March 1921 they drew 0-0, 2-2, 1-1 and 0-0 (the last two after extra-time) before Arbroath won 2-0 at Dens Park in the fourth replay!

Forfarshire Cup final replay, Dens Park, March 1914.

Arbroath defender John Peters is challenged by Dundee Hibs winger Willie Linn. A crowd of 9000 saw Arbroath win 2-1.

Tannadice, February 1921. Frank Gray of Dundee Hibs (centre) prepares to challenge Arbroath ‘keeper Ernie Bowman in a Forfarshire Cup tie that ended goalless.

Four replays were required before Arbroath prevailed!

League matches between them were much less frequent. Arbroath had been in the Northern League for several seasons prior to 1909 but just as Dundee Hibs were joining, they moved to the Central League.

So, the first time that the clubs shared the same division was when league football returned after World War One. That was season 1919-20 in the Eastern League, at the end of which Dundee Hibernian were champions, with Arbroath fifth. They then went their separate ways with the Hibs joining the Central League, while the Red Lichties were accepted into the Scottish Alliance, which mainly comprised the reserve teams of Scottish League Division One clubs.

The following season Division Two was re-introduced after a gap of six years and both Arbroath and Dundee Hibs were among the 20 clubs involved. The first ever Scottish League meeting between them drew a crowd of 5000 to Tannadice on 12 November 1921, with Arbroath coming out on top by the odd goal in three. A thousand less than that saw the Red Lichties complete the double with a 2-0 win at Gayfield in January and at the end of the season they finished fifth from bottom. But that was three places above the Hibs, who lost their league place just a year after regaining it.

They spent the following season in the Scottish Alliance but were re-elected to the Scottish League at the end of it and the next time the clubs clashed in a Scottish League match was to be the final one. It came on 22 September 1923 when Arbroath won 2-1 at Gayfield, watched by a crowd of 4000. Five weeks later, Dundee Hibernian became Dundee United.

Across eleven seasons covering the period 1909-1923, how well the clubs were matched is shown

by Dundee Hibernian’s record in competitive matches with Arbroath: P 26 W 8 D 11 L 7 GF 29 GA 29.

Wearing Remembrance Day poppies, this is the Dundee Hibs team that faced Arbroath in November 1921, the first-ever Scottish League meeting between the clubs. Back Row – Tom Bannister, Lowingham Braidford, George Wilkie, Andy Henderson, George Adams, Peter Brady (trainer). Front row – Norman Thain, George Stuart, Willie Linn, Horace Williams, James Headrick, James Ritchie.

WE NEED TO MARK THE OCCASION Dundee United Manager Jim Goodwin is anticipating a special evening at Tannadice on Friday, as we host Arbroath in the showpiece event of our ‘United for 100 Years’ celebrations.

Speaking exclusively to DUTV in the aftermath of our 5-0 demolition of Partick Thistle, he began: “It’s now the start of the second quarter, and we’ve had a great return in the first.”

With 21 points from our opening round of fixtures, Goodwin’s side have recorded the club’s best start to a second-tier campaign in our 114-year existence. Furthermore, only two other bosses have managed to steer United through a nine-game Championship quarter without defeat - Ray McKinnon and Robbie Neilson in 2016/17 and 2019/20 respectively.

Ever a perfectionist, the Irishman is still rueing the two draws on home soil this term, however.

“We’re exactly where we want to be, albeit I believe we’re a couple of points short of where we should be. That’s the standard we’ve set now - we can’t take our eye off the ball.”

Displays of passion and grace in equal measure have helped restore the connection between the fanbase and the playing group. Arabs continue to back the Terrors in sensational numbers, both in the city of Discovery and on the road.

In our four league matches at Tannadice so far, we’ve boasted a higher average attendance when compared with our final four home matches of 2019/20.

Goodwin resumed: “There seems to be a ‘United group’ if you’ll excuse the cliche! The team, fans and board - we’re all together. The message from me to everyone connected with the club is let’s not get carried away. Let’s recognise why we are in this position - it’s all down to hard work and effort on the training pitch.”

The clash with Arbroath unfolds exactly a century on from our first match under the name of Dundee United. A crowd of 2,000 watched on as Jimmy Brownlie’s history-makers faced Dumbarton in the shadow of the rock, raising the curtain on 100 years of unity, tradition and success.

For current United gaffer Goodwin, ensuring his charges aren’t over-awed by the occasion will be vital in extending our unbeaten run to a scintillating 14 matches. “We cannot expect an easy game against Arbroath. There’s a lot riding on the match, not just the result. We need to mark the occasion memorably as a group of players and staff.

“Let’s make sure we go out and get the positive result the fans and the club deserve.”

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JIM GOODWIN

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the skipper Hello everyone and welcome along to Tannadice for our game against Arbroath.

It is a special occasion for everyone involved tonight as we celebrate 100 years since this wonderful club became Dundee United.

IT’S A HUGE HONOUR TO BE PART OF THE CLUB WHEN THESE TIMES COME ALONG, SEEING THE NUMBER OF TICKETS SOLD FOR THE HOME END REALLY ADDS TO THE OCCASION AS WE KNOW THE PLACE WILL BE ROCKING. TO HAVE EVERYONE PACKED IN TONIGHT WILL BE GREAT TO SEE AND HOPEFULLY, WE CAN PUT ON A PERFORMANCE AND EVERYONE CAN ENJOY THE NIGHT WITH THREE POINTS AT THE END. It’s been a few weeks since we’ve been here as we’ve had three away games since but our results have been very positive and we’ve managed to remain top of the table. The support on the road has been incredible and I’d like to thank everyone who travelled as it makes a huge difference on the pitch.

We managed to finish the first quarter at the top of the table, which was the aim at the start of the season. The fact we are unbeaten in the league so far is a credit to everyone involved at the club from players, coaches and all staff involved. However we know that it’s just the start and there’s a long way to go, starting with a tough game tonight.

We know we can take huge positives from those first nine games but the hard work will continue and hopefully, that means the positive results continue too.

All the best and enjoy the game, DOC.

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the visitors An early ViaPlay Cup exit and three back-to-back Championship defeats (including a 0-4 home opening night defeat to United) had many thinking that this may be a season too far for the part-time outfit.

However, a solitary loss in their last seven matches has seen The Red Lichties hoist themselves up to fifth spot. Since promotion to the second tier in 2019, our near neighbours have continually punched above their weight and were victorious on their last league visit to Tannadice back in 2020.

summer signings With ten arrivals since the end of last season, there’s a fresh look to the Arbroath squad this term.

Whilst Jess Norey, a 22-year-old midfielder captured from Barking, former Musselburgh Athletic goalkeeper Ali Adams and 28-year-old ex Kelty Hearts midfielder Darren Lyon have barely featured, the rest have made significant impacts already.

Twenty-one-year-old former St Johnstone youth Aaron Steele has made the right-back slot his own and has been ever-present in the league thus far.

Former United midfielder Craig Slater arrived from Forfar Athletic and the 29-year-old playmaker is another who has yet to miss a league match. At Tannadice during the 2017/18 season, he featured nine times, scoring once in a home victory over Livingston.

Amazingly, five of their summer signings are strikers!

The highest profile arrival was Jermaine Hylton (who is featured in detail below) but in terms of impact, Jay Bird pushes him close. The 22-year-old former MK Dons frontman has hit the net five times and, with his direct style allied to his strength and pace, he is a real handful for defenders.

Leighton McIntosh has returned to Gayfield for a third spell. The 30-year-old has chipped in with three goals this term despite the former Dundee, Airdrie, Wrexham and Cove forward having to predominantly settle for a place on the bench.

Another who has had to be patient and bide his time is former Linlithgow Rose winger/striker, Mark Stowe. The 24-year-old spent time at Falkirk as a youth and scored an incredible 83 goals in two seasons at Prestonfield prior to his arrival in Angus.

German-born Kenan Dunnwald-Turan brings a touch of flair to Gayfield. The 27-year-old striker endeared himself to his new fans straight away by scoring against local rivals Montrose in the ViaPlay Cup and is loving his new life on the east coast of Scotland. Having previously represented a host of clubs from his homeland including MSV Duisburg II, TSG Sprockhövel and Fortuna Köln as well English sides Bristol Rovers, Scunthorpe and Stockport (on loan), he is now plying his trade in a third different country.

THE MANAGER dick campbell

After a modest playing career which saw him represent Cowdenbeath, Dunfermline, Brechin City and East Stirlingshire, Campbell took up his first managerial post in 1987 when he returned to the Blue Brazil. After only a dozen games however, he returned to Glebe Park in a coaching capacity.

A move to another former club saw him become assistant to Bert Paton at East End Park, eventually taking over the top job in 1999. However, within a year the club changed hands and the new owners decided that they wanted their own man in the dugout. Brechin City were the beneficiaries as Campbell moved north and led them to back-to-back promotions.

Everything the 69-year-old Fifer touched seemed to turn to gold and he led both Partick Thistle and Forfar Athletic to play off success from the old Second Division.

His biggest achievements however have all come since his March 2016 arrival at Gayfield. Taking over a side in freefall and seemingly destined for a play-off to maintain their league status, he kept the Lichties afloat and, a year later, remarkably led them to the League Two title. The League One trophy followed two seasons later and the club have comfortably remained in the Championship since.

This afternoon will see him move to within six games of reaching his 1,000th competitive match as a manager.

A former youth at Birmingham, the striker has represented Swindon and Newport in the English league as well as appearing at a number of non league sides.

Crowned September’s cinch Championship Player of the Month, he has proven to be a shrewd summer signing. A free agent after a short spell at Rushall Olympic, the 30-year-old Brummie has already scored four times in his nine (plus two substitute) appearances since his July arrival.

ONE TO WATCH JERMAINE HYLTON

Playing predominantly from the left wing, the former Motherwell and Ross County forward has pace to burn. His direct style and excellent close control have already made him a firm favourite with the Gayfield faithful.

Words by Ryan Haldane (With thanks to Stewart Whyte for his assistance in preparing this article)

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official partner of dundee united

PLAYED FOR BOTH

frank kopel

Frank started his senior career with Manchester United after being spotted in a Scotland Schoolboy trial at Ochilview in 1964.

He turned professional in 1966 and made his first team debut in September 1967, coming on as a substitute in a League match against Burnley. He went on to make 12 appearances for Matt Busby’s side, alongside the likes of Bobby Charlton, George Best and Dennis Law, and was still at Old Trafford when they won the European Cup in 1968, appearing on the bench for some of the earlier rounds of the competition.

A move to Second Division side Blackburn Rovers followed, with a £25,000 deal in March 1969, but he only managed 25 appearances in two and a half years at Ewood Park. After Rovers were relegated, Frank was released in December 1971, and on the recommendation, of United player Ian Mitchell, he became Jim McLean’s first signing on New Year’s Day 1972, making his debut in midfield against Morton at the end of January.

Frank played just occasionally over the rest of that campaign, but season 1972-73 saw him become a regular in the side, playing in either midfield or defence.

In the following season, he became the first-choice left-back, appearing in the club’s first-ever Scottish Cup final in May 1974, and he held that position in the side for nine seasons, hardly missing a game.

Kopel was a fixture in the side that finished in fourth place in the old Division One to qualify for the inaugural Premier Division in 1975, and then only just held on to their top-flight place in that very difficult first-ever Premier League season in 1975-76.

Not known as a goalscorer, Frank occasionally chipped in with a goal or two, including a first-minute winner against Celtic at Tannadice in October 1978. Although will always be remembered for scoring one of United’s most spectacular ever goals. It came against Anderlecht in Brussels in 1979 - a volley from the edge of

the box into the top corner securing United’s passage through to the next round on the away goal ruling.

Frank was one of the few original McLean signings that survived the transition as products of the manager’s youth policy bore fruit. His experience and reliability were vital to the development of younger defensive players like Dave Narey, Derek Stark and John Holt both in Europe and domestically.

He was a member of the side that reached the Clubs first ever League Cup final, where he helped United hold out for a 0-0 draw against heavy Aberdeen pressure at Hampden. The tie went to a midweek replay at Dens Park where United ran out 3-0 winners to claim that historic first major honour. He collected a second winner’s medal the following year, as United swept aside neighbours Dundee at Dens Park as United retained the trophy in December 1980. A second Scottish Cup runners-up medal soon followed as United lost out to Rangers in the final at Hampden in May 1981.

After ten years of service, Frank was allowed to leave on a free transfer in February 1982 and was quickly appointed player/coach at Arbroath. He returned to Tannadice in December 1983 to fill the need for an experienced defender in the reserves, a role he filled on several occasions over the next few years.

In February 1989, he joined Forfar Athletic as a coach, working with former United players Henry Hall and later Paul Hegarty, but left there in January 1992 and left the game. In January 2011 Frank was inducted into the Dundee United Hall of Fame.

Sadly, he lost his brave battle against dementia in 2014 and passed away at the age of just 65.

principal partner of dundee united

the tangerine files kevin

holt

Do you have any pre-match superstitions?

I always buy a couple bags of sweets for the dressing room for the boys/staff.

What would you be if you weren’t a footballer?

Golfer or Mary Berry (a baker)!

Best stadium you’ve played at?

Ibrox - played Rangers there in the Scottish Cup Quarter Final and the place was full. The atmosphere was amazing.

Best player you have played with?

I have a few who have been good fun to play with.. Doc being one. Beany (Iain Russel) was my favourite left side partner at QOS. Best player will have to be Kevin Thomson. He was towards the end of his career when I played with him but I loved it. He taught the game while playing and was a joy to watch with the ability he had.

Great guy too.

Best player you have played against?

Patrick Roberts. Easy decision for me. Technically amazing and ripped me to bits. Probably have him to thank that I don’t play left back anymore. He basically ended my left back career.

Who is the best player of all time?

What do you do in your spare time?

Ronaldo. I love his drive and determination to be the best. That on top of the career he has had is why he is the GOAT.

Having 2 kids I don’t have much spare time! But I do enjoy a game of golf.

Best game you’ve ever watched?

Friends - Chandler Bing is the GOAT.

QOS vs Aberdeen Scottish Cup Semi where Queens won 4-3. I was 15 and was at the game as a mad Queens fan at that point and the game itself was end to end and some watch.

Then Queens obviously winning it in the end was the cherry on top.

Favourite band?

Best advice you’ve ever been given?

Que sera, sera - what will be, will be.

Who is the dressing room joker?

I’ll go with Tony Watt. He just doesn’t stop until he gets a few laughs, which can take a while if Doc isn’t with him! He’s a guaranteed laugh.

Who is the best dressed in the United squad?

Depends on what you’re into. I’ll go with my travel buddy Doc. He’s out there and for being a shepherd I’ll go with him.

Who is the worst dressed in the United squad?

Chris Mochrie - comes in dressed as little Nicky every day. Shocking!

Which one player would you take on a holiday with you?

Sibbs. he’s quiet around the place but he’s a different animal after 10pm...

Favourite TV show?

Westlife.

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SEASON 2023/24

DUNDEE UNITED FC SQUAD

WILLIAM FINDLAY

WWW.DUNDEEUNITEDFC.CO.UK

FOR ALL SPONSORSHIP ENQUIRIES,CONTACT COMMERCIAL@DUNDEEUNITEDFC.CO.UK

01333 311105 Anstruther 01334 470952 St Andrews 07855 930270 Out of Hours

Unit 2 Station Road, Anstruther

Bathroom Showroom Now Fully Open 58 Largo Road, St Andrews Mon - Fri 10am - 4pm & Sat 10am - 2pm

Call our team to discuss your new bathroom installation

JOIN US IN HOSPITALITY

Dundee United Football Club have a wide range of match day hospitality options available to purchase on a seasonal and a match by match basis.

Whether you’re looking to network with clients or relax with friends and family, sit back and let Dundee United play host to a truly memorable sporting occasion.

We’re delighted to be partnering with Regis Banqueting for the 2023/24 season.

Regis has a clear, innovative take on food and prides itself on using fresh ingredients sourced locally wherever possible. The team cook with care and attention to detail, and will provide stand-out dishes at Tannadice this season.

At the forefront of quality and service, Regis has been presented with several awards, including The Royal Bank of Scotland Award for Young Business of the Year, finalist in the Shell Livewire awards and Wedding Caterer of the Year in 2015.

LIMITED places!

Limited places are now available at our next home match, with prices starting from just £55+VAT! The Chairman’s Club - From £130+VAT The Carling Lounge - From £95+VAT Lounge ‘87 - From £75+VAT The MKM Dugout - From £55+VAT Private boxes from £650+VAT (based on a party of ten people)

Dundee United vs Inverness CT 3pm Saturday 4 November Tannadice Park cinch Championship Limited places remaining, don’t miss out!

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE...

Showcase your business in the upcoming Shed Talk issues!

• • •

Static or video adverts Clickable links tailored to your business needs Average readership of 1,500 per issue

For more details, contact our commercial department:

commercial@dundeeunitedfc.co.uk

01382 832202

Creating Amazing Spaces

Transform your workplace, contact us today! www.spacestylored.com

FURNITURE | SEATING | STORAGE | OFFICE ACCESSORIES | REFURBISHMENT

The

Chairman’s Club ADG Plant Hire Scot Steel Sportsterz Dundee

The

THE

Dugout

Frances Smith Jim Williamson Graham Findlay Ian Black Peter Hadden MKM Building Supplies Mitchell Decorators Angela Wright Bestport Europe Martin & Co Redwell Infrared Heating David Hunter Stewart Edgar Robert Graham

Lounge ‘87

LOUNGE

Gillies of Broughty Ferry Colin Cromar Errea MTC May Isle Seafoods Ltd Carling Intervention Group ltd

Scott Mitchell Arbikie Distilling Ltd Jim Stewart John Carracher Forbes of Kingennie Paint Tec Dundee United Community Trust G4 Claims Logie Builders Safe-Tay Security

TUNNEL BOXES Fanbase Spaces Taylored

• Complete Retail & Commercial fuel installations/renovations from inception to completed site including civil works, cladding and canopies.

• Servicing, repair & maintenance of fuel tanks and pumps.

• Pipework/precision tank testing inclusive of certification.

• Supply, installation and replacement of Petroleum electrics, carried out by certified electrical engineers (Compex 1/4 and 7/8).

• Degassing of fuel tanks, tank infilling and/or excavation & removal.

Decommissioning of fuel sites including removal of fuel to the requirements of SEPA. • New & used fuel pumps and tanks.

• Underground pipework (including secondary containment).

• Vapour recovery.

• Tank gauging equipment / Fuel Management Systems.

• DCD units.

• We can also supply storage tanks for fuel, water, chemicals etc. including bunded units which comply with SEPA regulations.

• Supply and install electric vehicle charging points.

• Commercial / Industrial Electrical Contractors Carmichael & Baxter Industrial Services Ltd Trading as Industrial Services 6 Eden Valley Business Park, Cupar, Fife KY15 4RB Telephone: 01334 838793

raith rovers dundee united

1

Vaughan 23’

1

Moult 67’

3PM Saturday 7 October 2023 | Stark’s Park | cinch Championship | Attendance: 6,808

United hit back to remain unbeaten in league business!

Dundee United battled the elements as well as second-placed Raith Rovers to hold the hosts to a tenacious 1-1 draw in the driving Kircaldy rain.

Josh Mullin’s whipped, early delivery caught Declan Gallagher and Kevin Holt off-guard and Raith talisman Lewis Vaughan was left unmarked in the middle.

The frontman struck the upright with his initial headed effort but made no mistake with the rebound as United ‘keeper Jack Walton was left sprawling on the turf.

The final flashpoint of the first period saw Holt hit the deck under the challenge of Liam Dick following a stramash in the Raith penalty area, however, referee Alan Muir would opt for a goal-kick as his decision. In the aftermath, Holt and Dylan Easton saw yellow for their heated confrontation.

It would take the introduction of top goalscorer Louis Moult to spark Jim Goodwin’s side into life, as the frontman made his return from a short-term groin strain around the hour mark. And, just eight minutes after his introduction, Moult would pick up where he left off, restoring parity with a fine diving header from Declan Glass’ inch-perfect corner.

In the closing stages, Kevin Dabrowski continued to thwart Glenn Middleton’s desperate efforts to ensure the three points headed back to Tayside, making a point-blank stop from the United man’s well-struck half-volley.

Muir’s whistle brought proceedings to a close, and it was as you were in the cinch Championship.

partick thistle dundee united

0 5

SIBBALD 11’, HOLT 62’ 83’ 88’, MCMANN 64’

3PM Saturday 21 October 2023 | Firhill | cinch Championship | Attendance: 5,120 (1,398 away supporters)

A scintillating second-half showing and a Kevin Holt hat-trick secure three points!

Dundee United dismantled Partick Thistle 5-0 in Maryhill to complete the first round of cinch Championship fixtures without defeat.

Craig Sibbald drew first blood for the Terrors after just 12 minutes when the midfielder was left in splendid isolation by the Jags’ defence, controlling a Glenn Middleton corner before dispatching through a crowded six-yard box.

It took until the hour-mark for the visitors to double their advantage despite having a tight grip on the majority of proceedings. Kevin Holt pickpocketed Scott Robinson on the half-way line, before playing a sharp one-two with Tony Watt and striding forward into the attacking half. Formerly of Thistle, Holt unleashed a venomous effort from 30 yards - a strike that caught out Jamie Sneddon and thundered into the top corner.

Less than two minutes later, United would effectively end the match as a contest with a third goal.

A sweeping move involving Watt, Sibbald, Kai Fotheringham and Louis Moult culminated in Scott McMann finishing low beyond the ‘keeper for his second goal in three Championship matches.

Into the final stages, the tangerine juggernaut continued to push for more, galvanised by a jubilant Arab contingent in full voice. Another Middleton corner caused havoc in the six-yard area, and the ball bounced off the thigh of Holt and over the line.

Goodwin’s side iced the cake on 88 minutes, with Holt wrapping up a remarkable and historic hat-trick from the penalty spot after Watt was felled by Kieran Ngwenya. The defender’s tally for the season now stands at seven, having already netted two braces against Peterhead and Ayr United respectively.

season 2023/24

fixtures and results DATE

OPPOSITION

COMP

RES

ATT

STARTING XI Walton

Freeman

Denham

Holt

McMann

Grimshaw

Docherty ©

Cudjo

Walton

Freeman

Denham

Holt

McMann

Docherty ©

Sibbald 1

Cudjo

July 15

The Spartans (A) Viaplay Cup

VC

L 0-1

1,701

18

Partick Thistle (H) Viaplay Cup

VC

L 1-2

3,147

22

Peterhead (H) Viaplay Cup

VC

W 3-0

2,103

Walton

Grimshaw

Graham

Holt 2

McMann

Docherty ©

Middleton

Moch

25

Falkirk (A) Viaplay Cup

VC

W 1-0

3,186

Walton

Freeman

Graham

Holt

McMann

Sibbald

Docherty ©

Meek

Grimshaw

Gallagher

Holt

McMann

Sibbald 1

Docherty ©

Cudjo

August 4

Arbroath (A)

cc

W 4-0

5,558

Walton

12

Dunfermline Athletic (H)

cc

D 1-1

8,892

Walton

Freeman

Gallagher

Holt

McMann

Sibbald

Grimshaw

Middl

26

Ayr United (A)

cc

W 0-3

3,103

Walton

Grimshaw

Gallacher

Holt 2

McMann

Docherty ©

Glass

Middl

September 2

Airdrieonians (H)

cc

W 2-0

8,008

Walton

Freeman

Gallacher

Holt

McMann

Grimshaw

Glass

Middl

Dunfermline Athletic (H)

SPFL TT

W 3-0

2,408

Walton

Grimshaw

Gallacher

Graham

McMann

Tillson

Glass 1

Fothe

16

Greenock Morton (H)

cc

D 1-1

7,075

Walton

Grimshaw

Gallacher

Holt

McMann

Tillson

Glass

Cudjo

23

Inverness CT (A)

cc

W 0-1

3,503

Walton

Grimshaw

Gallacher

Holt

McMann

Docherty ©

Sibbald

Meek

30

Queen’s Park (H)

cc

W 4-1

7,256

Walton

Grimshaw

Gallacher

Holt

MCMANN 1

Docherty ©

Sibbald

Fothe

9

October 07

Raith Rovers (A)

cc

D 1-1

6,808

Walton

Grimshaw

Gallacher

Holt

McMann

Docherty ©

Sibbald

Middl

14

Peterhead (A)

SPFL TT

W 2-0

1,352

Walton

Freeman

Graham

Holt

McMann

Middleton 1

Tillson

Doch

21

Partick Thistle (A)

cc

W 5-0

5,120

Walton

Grimshaw

Gallacher

Holt 3(1p)

McMann 1

Middleton

Sibbald 1

Doch

27

Arbroath (H)

cc

31

Airdrieonians (A)

cc

November 4

Inverness CT (H)

cc

11

Dunfermline Ath (A)

cc

02

Greenock Morton(A)

cc

09

Ayr United (H)

cc

16

Raith Rovers (H)

cc

23

Queen’s Park (A)

cc

30

Partick Thistle (H)

cc

02

Arbroath (A)

cc

06

Greenock Morton (H)

cc

13

Inverness CT (A)

cc

27

December

January

Dunfermline Athletic (H)

cc

03

Ayr Uinted (A)

cc

17

Raith Rovers (A)

cc

24

Queen’s Park (H)

cc

27

Airdrieonians (H)

cc

02

Partick Thistle (A)

cc

09

Arbroath (H)

cc

16

Dunfedrmline Ath (A)

cc

23

Inverness CT (H)

cc

30

Raith Rovers (H)

cc

06

Queen’s Park (A)

cc

13

Greenock Morton (A)

cc

20

Ayr United (H)

cc

27

Airdrieonians (A)

cc

Partick Thistle (H)

cc

February

March

April

May 03

KEY: GOAL 1 BOOKED

SENT OFF

FIRST SUB SECOND SUB THIRD SUB FOURTH SUB FIFTH SUB

SUBSTITUTES

oe

Meekison

Middleton

Watt

Newman

Graham

Chalmers

Sibbald

Glass

Duffy

Mochrie

MacLeod

Thomson

oe

Fotheringham

Glass

Watt

Newman

Graham

Grimshaw

Moult

Chalmers

Middleton

Meekison

Mochrie

MacLeod

hrie

Meekison

Watt

Moult 1

Newman

Denham

Chalmers

Sibbald

Fotheringham

Glass

Freeman

MacLeod

Cudjoe

kison

Fotheringham 1 Cudjoe

Watt

Newman

Denham

Niskanen

Grimshaw

Middleton

Glass

Duffy

MacLeod

Thomson

oe 1

Middleton 1

Watt

Moult 1

Newman

Denham

Graham

Meekison

Glass

Freeman

Duffy

MacLeod

Thomson

leton

Watt ©

Cudjoe 1

Moult

Newman

Denham

Graham

Chalmers

Meekison

Fotheringham

Glass

Duffy

MacLeod

leton

Watt

Cudjoe

Moult 1

Newman

Denham

Graham

Meekison

Fotheringham

Duffy

Mochrie

MacLeod

Stirton

leton

Watt ©

Cudjoe 1

Moult

Newman

Denham

Graham

Meekison

Fotheringham 1 Duffy

MacLeod

Mwangi

Constable

eringham

Watt ©

Middleton

Moult 1

Adams

Holt

Denham

Freeman

Duffy

Cudjoe

Mwangi

Constable

Stirton

oe

Watt ©

Middleton

Moult 1

Newman

Denham

Graham

Sibbald

Meekison

Fotheringham

Freeman

Mochrie

Stirton

kison

Glass

Middleton

Moult

Newman

Denham

Graham

Tillson

Fotheringham

Freeman

Mochrie 1

Watt

Stirton

eringham 1 Glass

Middleton

Watt 2

Newman

Denham

Graham

Meekison

Freeman

Mochrie

Moore

Bertie

Stirton

leton

Glass

Fotheringham

Watt

Newman

Denham

Graham

Moult 1

Tillson

Freeman

Mochrie

Moore

Stirton

herty ©

Mochrie

Watt 1

Moult

Adams

Denham

Grimshaw

Sibbald

Fotheringham

Glass

Duffy

Moore

Stirton

herty ©

Fotheringham

Watt

Moult

Newman

Denham

Graham

Tillson

Freeman

Duffy

Mochrie

Cudjoe

Moore

season ticket holder retail event 27-30 OCTOBER