This encounter was a six point double header from which RISSC needed at least three points to ensure safety from relegation whilst Dundee United needed all six to have any chance of avoiding relegation. RISSC were without goalkeeper Darren Nolan, Adrian Ward, Phil O Dwyer and Sean O’Halloran while Paddy McGee was being rested for the Rangers game next Sunday. A much changed lineup saw the return of Donnie Mullen at the back and Colombian import Mauricio up front.

In the opening match, RISSC started with the wind behind them and Timmy Nagle and Karl McGee took early control of central midfield. Both Steve Benitez and Mick Coffey operated efficiently on the flanks making probing runs and sending inviting balls into the Dundee box. This presented forwards Liam Kelly and Mauricio with several inviting opportunities.

In defence, Pat Flannery played the anchor role which allowed Donnie Mullen to make the initial challenge for balls played over midfield and also freed him to make the occasional forward run. Dan Healey on the right side of defence was very solid and also provided cover when Mullen ventured forward. Left back, Jon Carey defended soundly and from time to time ventured forward seeking to emulate his goal-scoring feat of last week.

RISSC were awarded a penalty mid-way through the first half but unfortunately failed to convert the chance with the ball sailing over the bar. Despite the best endeavours of both sides the game remained scoreless at half time.

Dundee started the second half knowing their season was on the line and made the breakthrough after ten minutes with a scrambled goal. Despite having the majority of possession and executing some great passes RISSC could not get the equalizer. In their quest to score, RISSC left some gaps at the back and in the very closing stages conceded a second goal.

The requirements for both teams remained the same as the second game began. The pattern of play was similar to the first game with the RISSC defence staying resolute with Dan Healey making some emphatic and timely tackles.

As half-time approached the stalemate was broken in splendid fashion. A free kick was awarded to RISSC about 25 yards out from the Dundee goal. The ball was rolled to Timmy Nagle who curved it round the wall into the bottom left hand corner.

Mick Coffey was replaced at half time having run himself into the ground and shortly into the half Dan Healey was replaced for similar reasons. RISSC defended their lead with laudable concentration and with Dundee beginning to tire, gaps appeared in the Scot’s defence. Liam Kelly was prominent all over the pitch and he together with Mauricio and Steve Benitez went close to securing a second goal.

The final whistle brought welcome relief to manager Paul Franklin and his players and RISSC can now go into their final two matches against London Rangers and Middlesbrough free from the threat of relegation. The team will be seeking revenge on Rangers after the defeat earlier in the season and will hope to complete the double over Middlesbrough.

The primary candidates for man of the match plaudits over the course of both games were Dan Healey and Timmy Nagle.