DUMBARTON manager Ian Murray has set out his Christmas wish list - a hat-trick of wins.

Victory over Alloa last weekend has helped pull the Sons clear of the drop zone with them now five points clear of second bottom Cowdenbeath and nine ahead of basement side Livingston.

That means his attention is now firmly focused on getting in the play-off mix at the other end of the table, starting today at home to Raith Rovers.

The visit of the Kirkcaldy side kick starts a key run of fixtures over the next three weeks which could see Dumbarton propelled into the promotion mix.

Currently just six points off fourth place, wins over Raith, Falkirk and the lowly Blue Brazil would go a long way to changing the complexion of Murray's side's season.

A point that is not lost on The Rock boss as he plots a course up the Championship standings.

He said: "Tomorrow's match is a huge game and the start of an important period for us.

"Games against Raith, Falkirk and then Cowdenbeath represent a vital part of the season and doing well against the teams around us in the league is vital.

"It's these games that will ultimately determine where we finish at the end of the season."

Murray only has one injury concern with Chris Turner missing out following a knock last weekend.

Meanwhile, club bosses have put out an appeal to supporters to help move new covers off the park before today's match.

The new pitch protection has been recently purchased and chiefs called on fans to help out yesterday and this morning to make sure the tie stays on.

A Dumbarton statement said: "We recently purchased heavy frost covers for pitch protection - we are now looking for able people to help with putting down and removal from the playing surface.

If you can help, please be at the stadium today at 1pm.

"The club will be very grateful for supporters help and are offering £10 per person for those that can help."