St Mirren Win the Battle of the Saints as They Cruise Past St Johnstone in Paisley
It was showtime indeed for the home side as they were greeted to the pitch with fireworks and a Beetlejuice display from a packed SMISA stadium. However, the feel good factor was short lived as their Perth counterparts took the lead after just 8 minutes through in form Kimpioka and he was denied his second shortly after by VAR. Ex Saintees full back Scott Tanser struck back for the home side after half an hour with a sublimeeffort from outside the box looping over Sinclair and into the back of the net. From here the Buddies really grew into the game and just before the hour mark Captain Mark O’Hara got their 2nd. Some good battling from the impressive Greg Kiltie set Marcus Fraser free to cross the ball to his skipper and he makes no mistake heading his side in front. Killian Phillips who had another solid showing in the middle of the park thought he added a third but this was subsequently chopped off by VAR for a foul in the build up. St Mirren continued to put pressure on the St Johnstone goal and eventually a third goal stood when substitutes Mikael Mandron and Jonah Ayunga linked up with the latter scoring with a fine finish into the top left hand corner. A late red card scare for the hosts was waved away by VAR in a game that had it all. St Mirren looked back to their usual selves after a rocky few weeks and Simo Valakari will hope his side find their rhythm in the coming weeks to steer them clear of the sides below them. Next up for St Mirren is a home tie for Ross County, meanwhile St Johnstone face Hearts at McDiarmid Park in a game they may view as a must win. Our Standout Performers: Greg Kiltie and Marcus Fraser both off the back of signing new contracts showed exactly why they are so important to this St Mirren side. Kiltie who’s work rate and desire can never be faulted looked back to his pre-injury self and fans around the ground weren’t shy in identifying him as the missing piece of the puzzle. Fraser, who had an unusual shaky game last week was composed as ever down the right hand side and played a vital role in the 2nd goal. Solid defensively and good in attack he lived up to his name as Mr Reliable. Teams & Stats St Mirren: Balcombe (GK), Fraser, Gogic, Dunne (Taylor, 52’), Tanser, Bwomono, O’Hara (C), Phillips, Kiltie (Ayunga, 85’), Olusanya (Mandron, 67’), Scott (McMenamin, 67’) St Johnstone: Sinclair (GK), Cameron (Douglas, 68’), Neilson, Sanders, Wright, Holt, Sprangler, Smith (Carey, 68’), Clark (C), Kimpioka (Kirk, 68’), Sidibeh Referee: Steven McLean Attendance: 6,042
An inspired performance from substitute Johnson helped Celtic break down a dogged Dundee.
An inspired performance from substitute Alistair Johnson helped Celtic break down a dogged Dundee in Glasgow. Tony Docherty’s men had the first real opportunity of the game as Kasper Schmeichel reacted well to keep Antonio Portales out. Celtic recovered well, not failing to create chances so much as being unable to put them away. An off-kilter Kyogo Furuhashi guilty of not getting his side in front on a couple of occasions. Dundee held out as the half ended goalless and it looked as they might secure a point in the second with Celtic unable to put the ball past some heroic goal line defending. Brendan Rodgers soon turned to full-back Johnston to provide some impetus and was rewarded within minutes, the Canadian scoring in his second successive game with a poacher’s finish. Buoyed by the goal, Celtic began to attack with more confidence. Not long after going down, Dundee’s Antonio Portales muddled an attempt to clear his poor touch in the box, taking down Furuhashi. Arne Engels made no mistake from the spot and doubled the lead in the 67th minute. Two almost became three but for Daizen Maeda’s inability to keep the ball down with his header, instead sending it over the bar. Celtic would see out the game from then on, collecting another three points to keep them at the top of the table. Johnston the talisman When a manager looks to his bench to help break a deadlock, it is unusual to see a right-back be entrusted to lead the charge. Yet Johnston continues to impress as much up front as he does as part of a backline that has conceded just three league goals all season. Captaining in Callum McGregor’s absence on Sunday, he scored the second goal in a solid 3-0 win over Motherwell and seems to growing in stature with each passing week. Rodgers will hope the player can avoid any injuries in the coming days as the side balance three competitions, taking on Aberdeen in the Cup Saturday with RB Leipzig only three days later before travelling to Kilmarnock. Dundee yet to find winning combination Undefeated in their opening four games, Dundee have since picked up three points from a possible fifteen as Tony Docherty looks to remedy their slump. The heavy use of loan signings means squad has undergone an overhaul since the last time the sides met in April, with twelve of the match day side no longer at the club. Owen Beck was always going to be the most difficult to replace, although Simon Murray has been bright spark since his arrival . Not in any danger this early on, Dundee will have plenty of chances to turn things around. Fans will hope it can be sooner rather than later. Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers told Sky Sports:: “It’s one of those ones where you can be more comfortable in the game if you get those early goals with two massive chances in that first period of the game. “But it was job done. We controlled the game, created chances, should have had more goals and didn’t concede. So we have to be happy.” Dundee manager Tony Docherty told Sky Sports: “I thought the boys deserved a clean sheet for the amount of work they put in out of possession. “I think the penalty is really soft. I think there’s a foul that leads up to it on Mo Sylla. I don’t know why they don’t pick that up. I’ve seen it back.” Match Officials Referee: Ross Hardie Video Assistant Referee: Matthew MacDermid Assistant Referee 1: Graeme Stewart Assistant Referee 2: Paul McAvinue Fourth Official: Craig Napier Assistant VAR Official: Andrew McWilliam
Team News – Ross County v Hibs
Line-ups are in! Ross County (3-5-2) Don Cowie has made just the one change to his squad that battled to beat Kilmarnock on Saturday. Elijah Campbell returns from suspension and will take up his usual full-back role with Josh Reid dropping to the bench. Despite returning from injury and claiming a place on the substitutes bench on Saturday, Rickie Lamie has not made the squad tonight. Hibs (4-2-3-1) David Gray makes a double change to the Edinburgh derby side from the weekend. Joe Newell has returned from suspension and takes the captain’s armband once again as on-loan Celtic midfielder Kwon Hyeok-Kyu drops to the bench. The other change is in the attack as goalscorer Mykola Kukharevych takes his place back in the line-up with experienced frontman Dwight Gayle not included in the squad. Nicky Cadden has returned from injury and is included on the Hibs bench but there is no place yet for brother Chris.
Pedro’s Bold Prediction Pays Off as Scotland’s Women Head for Finland
Under the lights at Hibernian’s Easter Road, Scotland’s female national team put on a show. A 4 goal decimation of the Hungarians sets Pedro Martinez Losa’s side up for a mouth-watering play off final tie against Finland as they mount their charge to a place at the Euros next summer. The lead was taken after 17 minutes and the own goal by Lauren Brzykcy was doubled shortly after by Erin Cuthbert who rifled a shot high past the Hungarian stopper who had a performance to forget. Real Madrid star Caroline Weir added the 3rd after a smart piece of play from Martha Thomas in the 2nd half. Creator turns provider for the 4th goal as Thomas tucks the ball away to seal the game for the Scots. Scotland boss Pedro Martinez Losa was under the spotlight after stating there was “no way” his side would lose at Easter Road and he will be breathing a sigh of relief his team was able to deliver. Martinez Losa has been under fire recently with his squad selections. Criticised for minimising his use of the youth squads with players such as Emma Lawton, Leah Eddie and Eilidh Shore shining at the top level of the Scottish game with Celtic, Rangers and Hearts respectively, being left out and continuing with a team that is aging. Only 3 of the current squad are 23 or younger, but if they make it past Finland and into Euro 2025 then his methods may just be seen to have rewards. On the match, Martinez Losa commented: “We have probably seen the best version of a lot of players and that’s what we want to repeat against Finland. We are two teams at similar levels, we have played against them before and we had the feeling that we could beat them” Scotland return to Easter Road on the 27th of November for their play off clash against Finland, before heading across the water to play the 2nd leg on the 3rd of December as both teams vie for a place in Switzerland next summer.
Look Ahead – Aberdeen v Rangers
Aberdeen will take on Rangers tonight in the blockbuster clash as Philippe Clement looks to cut the gap on the joint league leaders at Pittodrie. Jimmy Thelin’s Dons have been the season’s story so far, his side have won all but one game (the comeback draw at Celtic) under his tenure. It’ll be back-to-back games under the lights for the Dandies as they ran out 1-0 winners on Saturday night against Dundee Utd thanks to a late Peter Ambrose goal. The win keeps the Dons six points ahead of tonight’s visitors whilst also having a better goal difference. The Dons boss has confirmed that striker Kevin Nisbet faces a race against time to prove his fitness ahead of tonight’s clash. The striker has scored three goals since arriving on loan but was ruled out of Saturday’s win. “I think the physios are working really hard with him now so let’s see tomorrow.” Philippe Clement meanwhile brings his Rangers team to the Granite City on the back of a battling 2-1 victory over St. Mirren. The Gers were made to work hard for the three points after almost falling 2-1 behind if not for a VAR check. Club captain James Tavernier was surprisingly dropped to the bench on Sunday with Jack Butland being handed the armband. New signing Robin Propper has struggled to adapt to life in Scotland and only lasted 60 minutes against St. Mirren whilst regular centre-back John Souttar was absent through injury. Keep an ear out for the reaction for Connor Barron, the midfielder departed Aberdeen for Rangers in the summer and if Ryan Jack is anything to go by, the youngster is heading for a furious reaction from the Dons fans. The pressure has piled on Clement in recent weeks after suffering bad defeats in Europe and an uncharacteristic start to the league season. Defeat tonight would leave Rangers nine points adrift of the Dandies. The TV cameras are at sold-out Pittodrie for this one, the game will be live on Sky from 7:15 pm with kick-off from 8 pm.
Barcelona Away Day: Your Ultimate Guide for Football Fans with Food, Culture, and Travel Tips
If you’re heading to Barcelona to experience football at Camp Nou, you’re in for an incredible trip. But it’s not just about the match! Barcelona is packed with culinary treasures, rich culture, and a lively vibe that makes for an unforgettable trip. Here’s your guide on where to eat, what to do, the best times of year to visit, and budget tips for your stay. When to Visit Barcelona Spring (March-May): Ideal for mild weather, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists, with temperatures ranging from 15-20°C. Perfect for taking in a game and exploring the city on foot. Autumn (September-November): With cooler temperatures (around 20-25°C) and fewer crowds, autumn is another great season for football fans and offers more affordable accommodation than in peak summer. Winter (December-February): While cooler (10-15°C), winter is a fantastic time to visit if you prefer a more laid-back, crowd-free experience. Football matches are still lively, and the holiday decorations add charm, especially around the Gothic Quarter. Where to Eat Barcelona is a food lover’s paradise, with everything from traditional tapas to avant-garde cuisine. Here are some must-try spots for an authentic Catalan experience: La Boqueria Market – Located on La Rambla, this vibrant market is a feast for the senses. Try tapas from El Quim de la Boqueria or get a fresh juice. Ideal for a quick snack as you explore. Can Culleretes – One of Barcelona’s oldest restaurants, famous for Catalan dishes like suquet de peix (fish stew) and crema catalana. A fantastic spot for fans craving an authentic sit-down meal. Quimet & Quimet – A tiny, legendary bar known for its montaditos (small sandwiches) and extensive wine selection. Try the smoked salmon with yogurt and truffle honey for a unique flavour pairing. Tickets Bar – For a splurge-worthy meal, this creative tapas bar offers inventive dishes designed by one of the world’s top chefs, Albert Adrià. Make sure to book well in advance! Cost of Dining: A casual tapas meal can be around €20-€30 per person, while more upscale experiences can go up to €60 or more per person. Snacks and drinks at the stadium will set you back around €10-€15. Cultural Highlights for Football Fans When you’re not cheering on your team, Barcelona has no shortage of cultural sites to explore: Sagrada Família – Gaudí’s awe-inspiring basilica is an absolute must. It’s a bit pricey (around €26 for entry), but the intricate design and history are well worth it. Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter) – Wander through medieval alleyways, visit the impressive Barcelona Cathedral, and take in the atmospheric vibes of this historic neighbourhood. Poble Espanyol – An open-air museum representing Spain’s architectural diversity, Poble Espanyol is a unique experience. It’s close to the Montjuïc area, so you can pair it with a visit to the Magic Fountain. Museu Picasso – If you’re a fan of art, the Picasso Museum offers insight into the artist’s early years. Tickets are around €12-€15 and free on Thursdays after 6 PM. Cost for Cultural Attractions: A day exploring these cultural hotspots can range between €40-€70, depending on entry fees and additional activities. Where to Drink and Catch Pre-Match Buzz Barcelona’s bar scene is second to none, with everything from boisterous pubs to chic cocktail spots: Bar Marsella – Known as Barcelona’s oldest bar, this Gothic Quarter institution serves up absinthe and old-world charm. Great for those looking for something different before or after the game. Fàbrica Moritz – A brewery that combines local craft beer with Catalan tapas, Fàbrica Moritz is a spacious spot with a lively, welcoming vibe. El Raval’s Craft Beer Spots – For craft beer lovers, El Raval neighbourhood has several great bars like Ale & Hop and Garage Beer Co., offering locally brewed options in a relaxed setting. Cost of Drinks: Expect to spend around €5-€7 per drink. If you’re planning a night out, €20-€30 should cover a few rounds. What to Expect on Match Day at Camp Nou Camp Nou is a cathedral of football, and match day here is an experience in itself. Here’s what you need to know: Before the Game: Arrive early to soak in the atmosphere. Fans gather around the stadium and fill the local bars. You can also visit the FC Barcelona Museum if you want a deeper dive into the club’s history (entry is around €25). Inside the Stadium: Prepare for the anthem “Cant del Barça” before kickoff—it’s an unforgettable moment as the entire stadium sings in unison. Spanish fans are passionate but respectful, so expect good-natured chants and cheers. Fan Etiquette: Catalan pride is significant here, so it’s appreciated if fans show respect for the local culture. Also, be cautious when wearing your team’s colours—it’s all part of the fun, but avoid heated discussions and show respect for the Barça tradition. Budget for an Away Day in Barcelona To help plan your budget, here’s an approximate cost breakdown for a day trip vs. a weekend: One-Day Budget (€100-€150) Meals – €30-€50 (a couple of tapas meals and a snack at Camp Nou) Metro Travel – €2.40 per journey, or a €10.50 travel card for 10 trips Stadium Ticket – €40-€90 depending on seat and opponent Extra Snacks/Drinks – €20-€30 for pre-game or post-game drinks Weekend Budget (€300-€400) Accommodation – €100-€150 per night for a mid-range hotel Meals – €60-€100 for tapas, local dining, and drinks Cultural Activities – €50 for one or two museum entries Stadium Ticket – €40-€90 for match entry Metro/Transport – €20 for a weekend travel card Dos and Don’ts in Barcelona DO: Try speaking a little Spanish or Catalan; locals appreciate the effort. Keep belongings secure, especially in crowded areas like La Rambla and near the stadium. Be respectful of the local traditions and avoid overly political conversations—football is serious here, but so is Catalan identity. DON’T: Get too close to street performers without tipping; it’s customary to offer a small coin if you stop to watch. Rely solely on taxis; Barcelona’s metro is fast and far cheaper. Forget