Brown (2)
Match Information
Attendance: 10,000
Referee: J Binnie (Falkirk)
Matchday: Saturday
Match Trivia
In the past there have been many strenuous struggles between Dundee and Rangers at Dens Park, but never one comparable mixture of good and rank bad that could possibly be conceived. From first-class it degenerated near the finish until a climax was reached in two players – and these not by any means the worst offenders of the afternoon – being ordered off the field. Against the wind Dundee were early put on the defensive, Cairns flashing the ball over the bar, an effort which was immediately responded by Fisher, also without success. There were numerous spirited efforts at both ends, and even though the breeze made the ball play tricks, there was much admirable work. Reid had a bad miss close in. Bennett, too, had to shake his head when he saw one of his own specials go past. Hendry had to retire for a time, but nothing in particular transpired during his absence, though his return saw Duncan putting on a rare bit of pressure. From this onward the ground was briskly contested, and notwithstanding the wind, Dundee fairly held their own. Indeed, close on the interval they almost succeeded in getting on the lead. As it turned out, however, they did extremely well to carry the game to the cross-over on equal terms, neither side having scored. Up to this it was a class function, taken as a whole. On resuming, Dundee at once set up such pressure that it did seem as if the elements were to be of some use to them. Brown brought Hempsey to his knees, the bar was struck, and altogether there was a most lively siege. Then there were forays at the other end, accompanied by much excitement. An injury to Fraser looked black for Dundee, but the lad speedily recovered, and then there were stirring times. When some twenty minutes had gone Brown somehow got in between the Rangers’ backs and scored a great goal, being knocked down as he did so, the while Hempsey made a strong effort to save. A minute later almost an identical position arose, but this time Brown did not succeed. At the other end there was a scramble and the proceedings became decidedly ‘ratty’, the referee having to administer words of comfort. Cunningham had to retire, obviously suffering pain, though he certainly had no part in the warlike transactions. These had their culmination when Fisher and Cairns got to grips, and both were ordered to the pavilion. This was immediately followed by Bennett being taken aside for repairs. Then the Rangers were left with only eight men, but only for a brief space, for Bennett soon returned. Near the finish, Brown had a characteristic goal, beating Logan rather simply and banging past the goalkeeper. It was the unexpected nature and rangers of the shot which deceived Hempsey. By this time the game had become quieter, and with the depleted sides, everyone seemed glad when the curtain fell. In criticising the first half it may once be said that, although there were not awaiting signs of temper, still the play was excellent – far indeed, beyond expectations – though the Rangers failed badly in shooting. Dundee, however, shone in crisp, active defence, which scarcely allowed Fraser a chance of showing his powers, and it was possibly the smart following up and fearless tackling of the Dundonians which proved the Rangers’ undoing. But oh! What a second half! The degeneration was unspeakable, and the transactions – well, they will have to be dealt with by the authorities, and actual criticism of the game after Dundee got their first goal is out of the question
