WIGHTON WELCOMES A PHYSICAL BATTLE
THE last time Craig Wighton scored for Dundee prior to Saturday, he became a club legend and sent supporters dancing into the street. Monday, May 2, 2016, is a date that will never be forgotten at Dens Park. Wighton’s place in Dundee folklore was secured when his last-gasp strike sealed the win that relegated city rivals United. The Dundonian striker is only 19. It is important for him, and fans, to realise that despite that unforgettable night, Wighton still has a fight on his hands to become a regular hero in Dark Blue. However, evidence suggests that he is growing in confidence and has matured since he made his debut at the age of 16 in 2013. His refusal to be bullied is a characteristic the team, who sit seventh, will need if they are to avoid a similar fate to that of United. ‘It was hard when I was 16 or 17 playing against grown men and I maybe wasn’t ready physically,’ said Wighton. ‘But I am 19 now and I am getting a run in the team. Me and Cammy (Kerr) are in the gym most days getting stronger, so we will keep that going. Inverness are a physical side. You know what you are getting from them.’ For all the battling qualities required, Wighton was given too much room to fire Dundee ahead on 25 minutes. Indeed, Inverness were in generous mood for both the hosts’ goals. Kostadin Gadzhalov’s free header on the hour mark was as simple as it gets. Caley Thistle left-back Carl Tremarco’s header made things nervy near the end, but Wighton was to have the final word. When Inverness lost possession in Dundee’s half in added time, Wighton raced clear towards Owain Fon Williams in the visitors’ goal, only to be hauled down by defender Lewis Horner. The red card was inevitable. The striker may still have some critics, but the reception from home fans inside Dens Park said it all. ‘Even before the start of this season, the fans have been wanting me to play,’ added Wighton.