Steven Pressley’s first Dens Park win as Dundee manager was a comprehensive 5-0 thrashing of Montrose. Despite the high score, he wasn’t pleased with his performance.

And he was not pleased to see skipper Simon Murray limp off – more on that later. Much harsher tests are on the way, and they will come soon. Even though the game was a dead rubber, this was an important result.

The damage had already been done in Group C, but two wins in the last two games were required to give this struggling team some confidence and momentum heading into the league season.

This win accomplished exactly that, with five goals, a clean sheet, and Murray on target.

Dundee’s defensive performance needs to improve significantly against better opposition, but this was a step in the right direction. Courier Sport was there to identify key talking points.

Changing tack

After starting the previous five matches in charge with a 4-4-2 formation, Pressley switched. At 1-1 against Bonnyrigg on Tuesday, he went 3-4-1-2, which made a significant difference.

So he stuck with his plan. It’s an ideal formation for this team. They have many centre-backs and attacking full-backs, but only one winger.

The main issue is finding a spot for Tony Yogane, the winger. The compromise is to play him as a No. 10 and let him drift around looking for space to use his dribbling skills effectively.

Dundee’s second goal resulted from that. This was the best performance of the season, albeit against a low standard.

There was more movement, more connection, and players appeared sharper. At times, playing out of the back got them into trouble, and Montrose had far too much freedom down the Dundee right in the first half.

Drey Wright and Plamen Galabov did not have great games. It’s still a work in progress, but the next steps are clear.

Imari Samuels

For much of his time at Dundee, fans could be forgiven for questioning why the club paid a fee to lure Samuels away from Brighton.

He had shown some flashes of brilliance but nothing consistent, and he appeared lost playing out of position at Alloa just a week ago.

In only his third start for the club, the 22-year-old delivered a standout performance.

Tuesday’s substitute performance at Bonnyrigg aided. Samuels, who was at ease in the role of left wingback, added pace and energy to the flank. And a killer set-piece delivery.

Two assists came off wide free kicks. This game saw only one additional assist, but the consistent quality of his corner deliveries deserved more.

The ball repeatedly flew through the danger zone. His overall demeanour was confident. Samuels signed in January, and now it’s time to secure a starting spot.

Simon Murray

Simon Murray’s knee injury has raised serious concerns. The striker took a sore one early in the second half but kept going. When the medic arrived to treat Yogane, he could clearly be seen discussing his knee with Dundee physio Bruce Smith.

Murray was brought down again just a few minutes later, and that was the end of it. He got up and limped away. Dundee can certainly do without Murray’s extended absence. Just as he had strayed from the point.

Are they ready for the Premiership kick off?

Dundee were unprepared for the start of the League Cup group stage, that much is clear. In such a short period of time, they have made significant progress. However, the team is still behind where Pressley would like them to be.

This summer has been all about catching up. There is a bounce game against Hearts on Wednesday, which will help prepare for Sunday’s home match against Hibs. However, more adversity may await this team before it can get going.

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