Kilmarnock 1-0 Dumbarton: Valiant Sons come unstuck in injury-time
A stoppage time winner from Kilmarnock’s Jordan Jones was all that stood between two of Scotland’s oldest clubs.
The hosts came into the match after three defeats against Old Firm opposition in the past two weeks. Derek McInnes’ team would have been desperate to make amends and progress to the last 16 of the Scottish Cup. However, the Sons certainly did not make it straightforward.
Stephen Farrell’s Dumbarton side deserve great credit for the way in which they executed their game plan. As many would have expected, Killie controlled possession, however, thanks to Dumbarton‘s organisation, the Ayrshire side struggled to make it count.
The Rugby Park club put out a very strong side, despite making six alternations from Wednesday’s narrow defeat to Rangers. The most noteworthy of those changes was the return of on-loan Middlesbrough ‘keeper Zach Hemming between the sticks, making his first appearance since November after being dropped in favour of Sam Walker. He didn’t have much to do after only dealing with three shots, however, he commanded his box with authority, claiming almost everything that came his way.
As strong as Kilmarnock’s starting 11 was, it was a substitute who provided the quality that was required. Jordan Jones, who has struggled for game time since returning to Ayrshire on-loan from Wigan Athletic, showed everyone what he is truly capable of with a superb volley in the first minute of added time, thus securing his side’s place in the draw for the last 16.
His introduction after the hour opened the game up and he has perhaps given McInnes food for thought ahead of next week's return to league action which star man Daniel Armstrong will miss through suspension.
Kilmarnock manager, Derek McInnes said: "I'm delighted to get through. It was a tough game. We expected that. The credit goes to Dumbarton. They were a credit to their division. They were well set-up. They play very compact: 4-1-4-1. We didn't play well enough or with enough tempo.
"I thought we were a bit disjointed, but I have to credit my players because they kept going and it was a moment of real quality from Jordan."
Dumbarton manager, Stephen Farrell said: “It's a hard one to take. We defended really well. I thought we frustrated Kilmarnock for large parts of the game.
"We were prepared for extra-time. Jordan gave them that one bit of quality. He's hit it really sweet right into the bottom corner. We go away proud of our achievements today."
Next up for Kilmarnock is a trip to Dingwall to face fellow strugglers Ross County for what could be a decisive match in both club’s seasons.
As for Dumbarton, they are aiming to extend their lead at the top of League Two to seven points with victory over bottom side Bonnyrigg Rose.