Dundee fans have saluted their title-winning heroes after turning out in their thousands to celebrate their Championship victory.
Supporters got the chance to see the trophy held aloft as Dark Blues players and staff attended a civic reception at City Square on Sunday.
Dundee sealed the title after an epic decider against Queen’s Park on Friday night.
Luke McCowan’s goal sealed the 5-3 victory after a classic contest that saw the hosts equalise three times.
Just over 1,000 fans had the chance to see the win in person at Ochilview.
But those who could not make Friday’s game were able to honour the players and see the trophy on Sunday.
Among the first fans waiting to see the players were Louise Stott and eight-year-old Amelia Macintyre from Newtyle.
Louise said: “We decided to come along to pay tribute. I have been a fan for years and Amelia was really keen to come along.
“It was a brilliant result and we are delighted to be here.”
Six-year-old Abe Egen from Ballumbie joined friend Kayla Disbury-Low, 10, at the celebrations.
Abe – who was also with his mum and dad – says he was not always convinced his team would win.
He said: “I’ve been a mascot for the team before. I wasn’t sure they were going to win.
“I saw the cup on TV but I’m going to see it properly today.”
Kaydee Scrimgeour, 14, from Lochee, was also worried her team might not do it.
The boys have taken the chance to go and meet the fans before leaving City Square #thedee pic.twitter.com/Ply1NpKGwE
— Dundee Football Club (@DundeeFC) May 7, 2023
She said: “It’s been a while coming but they did it.
“I was so excited and I cried when they won.”
A group of Dark Blues fans made the journey from Fife to Dundee for the reception.
John Hutton was there from Dalgety Bay with his son Caoimhin, 14.
John said: “We travel all over to watch the Dees so there was no way we weren’t going to be here today and miss this.”
Friend Billy Naismith from Kirkcaldy said: “We all travelled up together – we wouldn’t miss this.”
Players met fans and signed autographs, as well as attending a reception hosted by Lord Provost Bill Campbell.
The boys have taken the chance to go and meet the fans before leaving City Square #thedee pic.twitter.com/Ply1NpKGwE
— Dundee Football Club (@DundeeFC) May 7, 2023
He said: “It has been a tremendous season for Dundee FC, and it’s only right that we hold a civic event to mark their 2022/23 Championship title.”
Club captain Ryan Sweeney told The Courier it had been a challenging season at times, but the title was worth waiting for.
He said: “The draw against Cove Rangers made the victory (on Friday night) all the sweeter.
“It led to such an amazing atmosphere on Friday in a match where we played brilliantly.
“It’s incredible to have this reception held in our honour.
“The support from our fans in Dundee is absolutely amazing and the turnout to see us and the trophy is fantastic.
“They are who it’s for and what makes it all worthwhile.”
You can see the 40 best pictures from the celebrations in our picture gallery HERE.
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