Neil McCann excited by Kharl Madianga potential after first Dundee goal

Posted Thursday, July 26, 2018 by PA

Dundee manager Neil McCann hailed the impact of Kharl Madianga after the French midfielder scored his first goal for the club in a 2-0 win at Peterhead.

Madianga showed a good burst of pace and emphatic finish to run on to Paul McGowan’s lay-off and fire Dundee ahead in the 49th minute at Balmoor.

Another summer signing, Jean Mendy, netted in stoppage time to seal three Betfred Cup points and keep Dundee in with a chance of progression.

McCann said: “It was Kharl’s first game in a year. I asked him when he last scored and I don’t think he knows.

“He has loads to offer, he can get about the pitch and he is only going to get better. I said I was quite excited about him so I am pleased he got on the scoresheet to open the game up.”

Dundee remain three points behind Dunfermline in Group D following their defeat to the Pars on Sunday but should qualify as runners-up at least if they beat Brechin at Dens Park on Saturday.

McCann added: “I thought we were patient enough and scored good goals.

“We created chances and the surface was really sticky and stopped us breaking with purpose, but I have been here before and know how difficult it is so I am just pleased to win the game.”

Peterhead finished the group without scoring a goal but manager Jim McInally was pleased with their defensive play and organisation.

He added: “We have done well in this competition in the last two years and failed (to get promoted) so hopefully we do it the other way round this time.”