When it comes to coping with last-day-of-the-season drama, Dundee boss Paul Hartley has been there, done that and has the medal to prove it.
At the finale of the 2008 season, the present Dens manager was a player in the Celtic team that travelled to Tannadice on May 22 neck and neck in the title race with Rangers, who had to play Aberdeen at the same time.
With a helicopter hovering in the skies poised to deliver the SPL trophy to whoever came out on top, Hartley took a corner against Dundee United that was headed home by Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink for what proved to be the winning goal for the Hoops.
At the same time, Rangers were losing to the Dons and Celtic clinched the title.
Dundee are now just 90 minutes away from similar glory in the Championship against Dumbarton on Saturday at a sold-out Dens Park and Hartley is looking for his players to hold their nerve just like Celtic did six years ago.
He said: “I remember the Thursday night when we beat Dundee United to win the league on the last day. Ourselves and Rangers were going for the title and this time three teams are battling it out.The Courier website will bring you live updates throughout the day as Dundee bid for Championship Glory. Get all the build-up and all the action right here on Saturday.“It’s all to play for but we’re in the driving seat and want to remain there.”
He added: “Winning the title in 2008 at Tannadice was special. We had to win the last seven games of the season including two Old Firm ones and we managed to do that.
“We knew then we had to go and win the game and it’s the same for us on Saturday. People talk about a draw possibly being good enough but we can’t rely on that we must be positive.
“There’s a lot riding on this in terms of financial reward for the club to get into the top flight. It’s a sell-out and it’s all Dundee fans. I can’t remember the last time that happened.
“The fans will get right behind the players. We must hold our nerve, be calm when we get the ball and be positive.
“It’s been a tough season with a lot of criticism at times so if we can get the right result, it will be fantastic for them.”
While there is fevered excitement among the Dundee fans in advance of the big game, Hartley in contrast has appeared a picture of calmness during this week’s build-up.
And he insists there is no danger of nerves getting the better of him.
He said: “I’m sleeping fine, in early in the morning and leaving late at night. I just want to make the game about the players because it could be a great occasion for them.”