Ian Murray plans repeat shut-out against Hearts

Ian Murray: Six matches undefeated. Picture: Jane Barlow

The Sons are the only side to keep a clean sheet against the rampant Jambos in the league, restricting them to a stodgy 0-0 at the Bet Butler Stadium on 20 September.

That result – which is made all the more spectacular by the fact Hearts have scored 32 goals this term – is indicative of the part-timers’ recent run of form, with Dumbarton’s defence having proved largely impenetrable of late. They have racked up six matches unbeaten, registering four clean sheets in the process. On current form, if anyone can halt Hearts’ 100 per cent record in Gorgie then it is Murray’s men.

The promising coach said: “Hearts are the form team in the division and are deservedly league leaders.

“We held them to a no-scoring draw at our place last month and although Hearts had the majority of possession we defended very well. Overall, our performances since the start of September have been absolutely excellent.

“We are on a good run, albeit we lack a little firepower. However, our defensive unit has been superb. We have shown that we can defend well and, with only three fit strikers, keep vital clean sheets.

“We’re six games undefeated and, although people might say we are not scoring enough, if we could defend and score a barrowload of goals we would be top of the league. Simple as that.

“It’ll be a thorough examination and, like every game in this division, we’ll need to concentrate and be fully committed. Tynecastle will be full and the atmosphere will be fantastic and it’s a game we are all looking forward to.”