Canterbury Renews Commitment to Women’s Rugby with PWR Partnership

Canterbury has renewed its partnership with Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR), strengthening its support for the women’s game in England. The global rugby brand confirmed it will provide every registered player in the league with kit and boots tailored to their playing position, marking a significant step in investment and recognition for female athletes. The announcement, made on 28 October, comes as part of Canterbury’s ongoing efforts to develop women-specific rugby equipment. More than 450 players across nine clubs will benefit from the initiative, which aims to address the differing requirements between positions such as the front row and scrum-half, while ensuring female players have access to properly fitted, high-performance gear. While Canterbury has not traditionally been the leading choice of boot supplier among PWR players, as the brand does not currently offer boots specifically designed for women, this latest move signals a clear intent to expand its influence in the women’s game and respond to the growing demand for female-focused products. One PWR player told us this was the most significant aspect of the announcement — and a long overdue step forward. Growing Commercial Backing for the PWR Canterbury’s renewed partnership follows a series of major sponsorship announcements within Premiership Women’s Rugby. In October, Gallagher Insurance became the league’s official insurance partner, further strengthening ties between the women’s and men’s professional competitions. At club level, sides across the PWR are also expanding their commercial portfolios. Ealing Trailfinders Women recently extended their partnership with Arnold Hill, a chartered accountancy firm that supports the club’s TrailfindHERS programme — an initiative investing in youth and girls’ rugby. These partnerships are viewed as essential in helping clubs develop the infrastructure required to sustain the professional game, attract new players and fans, and build long-term stability. Progress and the Path Ahead Industry observers have welcomed the increased corporate interest in women’s rugby as a sign of its growing appeal and commercial potential. Tailored investment from brands such as Canterbury is also seen as an important step in improving accessibility and inclusion within the sport. Beyond England, competitions such as the Celtic Challenge — involving teams from Scotland, Ireland and Wales — are helping to grow the women’s game further. Following Scotland’s strong performances at the recent World Cup, there is optimism that progress in England will continue to inspire development across the home nations. With more major brands showing confidence in women’s rugby, the game looks set to continue its upward trajectory — both on and off the field.

The Unsung Whistle: Inside the Weekend World of Scotland’s Rugby Referees

“13, 14, 15… both sides ready? Captains set? Pitch clear? Start the watch…” A long blast of the whistle cuts through the air — and another game of Scottish rugby begins. Every weekend, across the country, hundreds of matches kick off just like this. From youth tournaments in the Borders to club clashes in the Highlands, the players take centre stage — but behind it all, another team ensures the game can even happen. They are the referees and assistant referees — volunteers who give up their weekends, travel miles in all weathers, and dedicate hours to a role that rarely earns applause but without which rugby simply couldn’t function. Some are former players who can’t quite walk away from the sport. Others have never played but fell in love with the rhythm and respect of the game. A rare few, like Scotland’s Hollie Davidson, have turned it into a professional calling. But for most, it’s passion — not pay — that keeps them running. Beyond the Whistle: Preparation and Dedication The job starts long before kick-off. Pre-season for referees isn’t a gentle run around the park — it’s a series of gruelling sessions run by regional associations, designed to mirror the intensity of match days. “Brutal,” one referee admits. “But if we can’t keep up with play, we can’t control the game.” Then comes the admin: confirming fixtures, checking venues, reviewing laws. Many referees spend evenings scrolling through the World Rugby Laws app or the SRU’s Age Grade Variations page, brushing up on details that can change from one level of the game to another. “It sounds dull,” one official says, “but you might referee four or five different sets of laws in one weekend. You’ve got to be sharp mentally as well as physically.” Match Day: Rituals and Responsibility For most referees, match day begins an hour before kick-off. The kit bag is packed with precision: two watches, two whistles, yellow and red cards, flags, boots, spare socks — and, in many cases, a packet of Haribo for quick energy. At the ground, the pre-match routine kicks in — checking the pitch, chatting with coaches and captains, and briefing players. There’s usually no team of professional assistants, just volunteers acting as line judges. Then it’s time. “13, 14, 15… captains ready? Watch started.” The whistle sounds, and the referee bursts into motion. “The first ten minutes set the tone,” says one experienced official. “You’ve got to show control early — get to that first breakdown, be seen, set your standards. It’s a sprint from the start.” In community rugby, it’s often a solo effort — one person managing 30 players, dozens of laws, and countless moving parts. “When the tackle happens, I’m checking release, offside lines, ruck entry, whether the nine’s protected — all while staying out of the way,” they explain. The challenge is constant decision-making under pressure. “People think we miss things,” one referee says. “But sometimes you choose to manage rather than penalise. No one wants a stop-start game — you can keep it flowing just by talking to players.” After the Final Whistle When the whistle blows for full-time, the job still isn’t over. There’s self-reflection — or a debrief with an observer if one’s present — and reports to file to the Scottish Rugby Union detailing any cards or notable incidents. Then, often, comes the best part: a chat in the clubhouse. “A cup of tea or a bacon roll, and some proper rugby banter,” says one ref. “Even the players who’ve shouted at you for 80 minutes are usually shaking your hand afterwards.” Why They Keep Coming Back So why do it? Most referees say it’s the sense of belonging — the camaraderie with players, coaches, and fellow officials. The humour helps too. “The best line I ever got,” laughs one referee, “was after giving a penalty: a player looked at me and said, ‘At least I put my weights away, Sir!’” From pitchside jokes to post-match hospitality, refereeing offers a unique perspective on Scottish rugby — one that sees the sport not as rivalries and results, but as a community built on respect. Would they change it? “Not a chance.”

Women’s Rugby at a Crossroads: Momentum Must Now Match Support

The largest Women’s World Cup to date ended in front of 81,885 fans as the Red Roses defeated Canada in a thrilling final — a record-breaking moment that underlined the strength and appeal of the women’s game. Across the UK, the mood is upbeat. The PWR season in England began at the weekend, while the Celtic Challenge fixtures have now been confirmed in Scotland. On the pitch, the standard of rugby continues to rise. Francesca McGhie, Sophie de Goede, Ellie Kildunne, and breakout World Cup star Braxton Sorensen-McGee were among those who lit up the tournament with skill, pace, and flair, scoring some of its most memorable tries. But the next step is crucial. The enthusiasm and momentum from the World Cup must now flow into clubs and grassroots programmes if the sport is to build sustainably. In recent years, a number of incidents have exposed the financial gulf between the men’s and women’s games. Charlie Holland (née Willett) was forced to crowdfund for ACL surgery, while Scotland international Chloe Rollie took to social media in search of boot sponsorship. Even the Canadian national team — finalists this year — had to crowdfund simply to travel to the tournament. Behind the celebrations, the reality is that the average salary for a PWR player remains around £9,000 — a figure that raises serious questions about how sustainable the current structure is, given the time and commitment required to play at that level. Financially, the equation is simple: low attendances mean limited revenue, which restricts what clubs can pay players, coaches, and staff. But with visibility and participation growing, the women’s game is arguably in its strongest position yet. Still, many players balance their rugby commitments with additional jobs. Holland, for example, works as an online personal trainer and partnership executive at Ealing Trailfinders alongside her playing career. In Scotland, the newly introduced Bill McLaren bursaries aim to ease the financial pressures faced by young players. It’s an important initiative that could reduce the need for players to hold down multiple jobs while trying to progress. Yet, without a professional domestic structure, many of Scotland’s most promising players continue to move south to pursue opportunities in England. The Celtic Challenge represents progress, but it will require sustained investment and commitment from the SRU to reach its potential. The union’s recent appointment of a Managing Director for women’s rugby signals intent, though some within the game question the timing and focus given the well-publicised contract disputes. Women’s rugby, then, finds itself at a pivotal point. The sport is developing its own audience and culture, distinct from the men’s game, and offering families and new fans a fresh route into rugby. Next April, Scotland Women will play at Murrayfield for the first time when they host the world champions — a symbolic and potentially transformative moment. For that transformation to take hold, however, it needs one thing above all: fans. Without attendance, sponsorship, and broadcast pressure, the financial engine of the game will stall. This is the moment for supporters to play their part. Attend a local PWR fixture, follow your Celtic Challenge side, or turn up to an international. The standard is high, the atmosphere welcoming, and the passion undeniable. Women’s rugby has never been stronger — now it needs everyone to help it grow further.

Jesper Karlsson on his loan move to Pittodrie in the summer

The Swedish international has came out today and confirmed the reason’s he made the move from Italy to the Granite City. Jimmy Thelin was the main reason the winger moved to Scotland as Jimmy managed Jesper during their time in Sweden at Elfsborg. Two former Aberdeen stars were also apart of the decision of the Bologna winger with former Dons men Lewis Ferguson and Ylber Ramadani playing a pivotal part in the move for the Swedish star. The attacker made a €11.1million (£9.6million) from Dutch side, AZ Alkmaar back in 2023 but has failed to hit the ground running hence why he made the loan move to the Scottish side. Jesper was a key star at Elfsborg during his time with Jimmy Thelin before he made the move to the Netherlands. The winger scored on 46 occasions over a three year spell at AZ Alkmaar and has netted three times in six during his stint in Scotland so far. The Swede confirmed while speaking to the Daily Record: “I spoke to Lewis Ferguson and Ylber Ramadani, so I had some information. “Both were positive about their experience here. They said only good things.” “I have not played many 90 minutes recently,” Karlsson confirmed “I think the last time was in 2023 with the national team. “So I also feel like I am not there yet in my fitness and confidence, although I feel more and more like I am getting it back when I train. “The more I play, I will get better. “It’s a good league with good teams and I have respect for the football here.” Karlsson has 14 Swedish caps and five international goals, but he hasn’t played for his country in two years. That is an ambition once he really hits top gear at Aberdeen Speaking to Daily Jesper said: “First of all, I just have to think about the here and now because I have not played regularly for a long time. “I just hope to reach my best level again here. “That’s my first goal and the other things will come later.” Jimmy Thelin was the main reason the winger moved to Scotland as Jimmy managed Jesper during their time in Sweden at Elfsborg. Two former Aberdeen stars were also apart of the decision of the Bologna winger with former Dons men Lewis Ferguson and Ylber Ramadani playing a pivotal part in the move for the Swedish star. The attacker made a €11.1million (£9.6million) from Dutch side, AZ Alkmaar back in 2023 but has failed to hit the ground running hence why he made the loan move to the Scottish side. Jesper was a key star at Elfsborg during his time with Jimmy Thelin before he made the move to the Netherlands. The winger scored on 46 occasions over a three year spell at AZ Alkmaar and has netted three times in six during his stint in Scotland so far. The Swede confirmed while speaking to the Daily Record: “I spoke to Lewis Ferguson and Ylber Ramadani, so I had some information. “Both were positive about their experience here. They said only good things.” “I have not played many 90 minutes recently,” Karlsson confirmed “I think the last time was in 2023 with the national team. “So I also feel like I am not there yet in my fitness and confidence, although I feel more and more like I am getting it back when I train. “The more I play, I will get better. “It’s a good league with good teams and I have respect for the football here.” Karlsson has 14 Swedish caps and five international goals, but he hasn’t played for his country in two years. That is an ambition once he really hits top gear at Aberdeen. Speaking to Daily Jesper said: “First of all, I just have to think about the here and now because I have not played regularly for a long time. “I just hope to reach my best level again here. “That’s my first goal and the other things will come later.”

100 Years of Murrayfield Stadium

Murrayfield Stadium celebrates 100 years, and to mark the occasion Scottish Rugby has released a new playing top, paying homage to those worn a century ago. For a century, Murrayfield has been more than just a stadium,it’s been the beating heart of Scottish rugby, echoing with triumph, heartbreak, and hope. It stands as a symbol of national pride, uniting generations through the shared rhythm of the game. I thought it would be fitting to take a trip back through my own experiences of the stadium, the matches that stand out for me and the memories that have made Murrayfield such a special place in my life. Murrayfield has always held a special place in my heart. I’vebeen lucky enough to attend matches there since I was a young boy, going along with my family or on big club trips with the Cartha Queens Park Minis. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of watching the world’s best teams play at Murrayfield and witnessing some unforgettable Scottish victories. This autumn, Scotland host the USA, New Zealand, Argentinaand Tonga for the Autumn Series. All eyes will, of course, be on New Zealand, a team Scotland have never beaten. The closest we’ve come were two draws, both at Murrayfield, in 1964 (0–0) and 1983 (25–25). That’s 32 Tests in total: 30 All Black wins, 0 Scotland wins, and 2 draws. Could this November finally be the time? Some say Scotland have their best chance yet, with the All Blacks not at their dominant best, though still ranked No. 2 in the world while Scotland sit at No. 8. But Murrayfield is a special place in November, a place where upsets can happen. Beginnings at Murrayfield When I was 16, I started working for Scottish Rugby as a Modern Apprentice, a two-year programme that set me on the path I’m still on today, working in Rugby Development for West of Scotland FC, a club celebrating its own milestone: 160 years of rugby. My very first day as an apprentice was spent at Murrayfield, meeting in one of the suites. I couldn’t believe my luck. We were given a brief tour of the stadium, quiet and still, unlike those electric matchdays. My excitement grew even further when I was told that part of the apprenticeship included two complimentary tickets to every Scotland home game. My parents had taken me and my brothers to Murrayfield for years, with tickets often coming through school or club connections. I was lucky enough to be there for Scotland’s victories over France and England in 2006, the first time I truly felt that spark of Scottish hope: maybe we could really compete in the Six Nations. That hope still burns bright, rising and falling each year. Maybe 2026 will be our year with the same fixtures as 2006, England and France both at home. Those two tickets from Scottish Rugby would continue to bring me joy for many years, as I remained involved in the game and worked alongside the organisation for over 16 years. I’ve attended countless Six Nations matches and even more Autumn Tests. I feel incredibly privileged to have witnessed so much rugby at Murrayfield. A Brief History Murrayfield Stadium is the largest stadium in Scotland, the fifth largest in the UK, and the 22nd largest in Europe, with a capacity of 67,144. It officially opened on 21 March 1925 with a Scotland v England match, Scotland won that day and secured the Grand Slam. Not a bad start for their new home! The land was purchased by the SRU from Edinburgh Polo Club. Before Murrayfield, international matches were played at Inverleith, the home of Stewart’s Melville RFC, from 1899. However, Inverleith could no longer accommodate the growing number of spectators. During the Second World War, Murrayfield was offered to the nation and used as a supply depot by the Royal Army Service Corps. The record attendance at Murrayfield came on 1 March 1975, when Scotland defeated Wales 12–10 in the Five Nations — a world record crowd at the time. Over the years, the stadium has evolved dramatically. The original stands gave way to modern concrete terraces, floodlights were added in the 1950s, and the East Stand was rebuilt in the 1980s to increase capacity. More recently, upgrades to seating, hospitality areas, and accessibility have ensured Murrayfield remains one of Europe’s premier rugby venues while preserving its traditional character. Over the years, Murrayfield has undergone many transformations and upgrades to become the stadium we know today. Those who remember the old ground will always feel a deep nostalgia for it, especially as the glory days on the pitch were more frequent back then. For me, though, the current stadium is my Murrayfield, from watching my first match there in 2003 (a World Cup warm-up against Ireland) to coaching West of Scotland Women in a Shield Final. The ground holds a special place in my life, as I’m sure it does for thousands of others. My Top Games Scotland v South Africa | 2010 | Autumn Tests One of my favourite Murrayfield memories came in 2010, when Scotland hosted the reigning world and Tri Nations champions, South Africa. Scotland edged a scrappy 21–17 win in wet conditions. Unlike today, where we’re spoiled with tries, those 21 points came entirely from the boot of Dan Parks, six penalties and a drop goal. Parks was a player who divided opinion, sometimes cheered, sometimes booed, but on this day, he was the hero. Beating the world champions reignited that familiar Scottish flame of hope once again. Scotland v Australia | 2017 | Autumn Tests In 2017, Scotland tore Australia apart, winning 53–24, a match packed with attacking flair and confidence. A red card for Australia just before half-time (while they were leading 12–10) swung the momentum entirely. Tries came from everywhere: Ali Price darting through, Sean Maitland sprinting 50 metres, Johnny Gray strolling under the posts, a young Huw Jones scoring yet again, John Barclay bulldozing over, and Stuart

Scotland’s Trailblazer – Hollie Davidson

Fresh from becoming only the second match official to referee two World Cup Finals, Hollie Davidson is once again smashing through the glass ceiling of world rugby. When the All Blacks visit Wales in November, Hollie will become the first female match official to referee the All Blacks. Since her days training for Scotland as a player were cut short by injury, Hollie quickly progressed as a match official and is now seen by many as one of the best referees in both the men’s and women’s games. A firm fan favourite, other notable highlights include receiving her official refereeing cap from the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) in February 2025, the second Scottish referee and first female to receive it. Later in the year, she received the World Rugby Referee Award shortly ahead of the World Cup Final. As well as award-winning performances on the field, her achievements have seen her take charge of an EPCR Final (the first female to do so). She has refereed the Springboks, led the first all-female team to officiate a Six Nations match, and has refereed some high-profile Sevens games. Not bad for the age of 33. She has her sights well and truly set on the next Men’s World Cup. Over the coming weeks, SNN will look at the impact referees can have all the way from the community game to inspiring younger generations, building up to Hollie’s match in November.

Russell Martin Remains Under Fire as Rangers Held by Falkirk

Falkirk 1-1 Rangers Cartwright (73) – Miovski (41) Second-bottom Falkirk hosted Russell Martin’s struggling Rangers side at the Falkirk Stadium this afternoon, with both teams looking to rebound from disappointing defeats in their previous matches. The Bairns returned to home action after a 3-0 defeat away to Hearts at Tynecastle, following a credible 2-2 draw with Hibs the week before, a match in which they came back from two goals down to earn a point. Rangers, meanwhile, finally secured their first league win of the season – and their first under Martin, with a 94th-minute victory over Livingston last weekend. However, any momentum gained was quickly squandered with a 2-1 defeat to Austrian side Sturm Graz in the UEFA Europa League midweek, both goals coming because of typically catastrophic defending. Wearing their white away kit, Rangers got the match underway at Grangemouth and had the ball in the net inside three minutes. Good work from Mikey Moore created space for a shot that Scott Bain managed to parry, but Djeidi Gassama’s follow-up was ruled out for offside after a VAR check by Steven MacLean. Despite that early warning, it was the hosts who took control. Falkirk’s willingness to spread play wide from defence, coupled with relentless pressing and an aerial bombardment of the Rangers box, put the visitors under intense pressure from the outset, much to the delight of the ferocious home crowd. Despite sustained Falkirk pressure, it was Rangers who offered their head coach some relief with a goal just before half-time. Derek Cornelius, operating at left-back, whipped a ball right across goal for Bojan Miovski to tap home with ease. The away support briefly celebrated before resuming chants against Martin, a reminder that, despite any fleeting signs of progress, they remain firmly opposed to his continued tenure. Into the second half and Rangers did not push on, Falkirk came close on the hour mark, MacIver putting his header wide at the back post despite Butland coming and completely missing the cross. But Rangers slackness would be punished, substitute Henry Cartwright was allowed so much room to drive through the middle of the park before driving his strike past the rooted Butland sending two and a half sides of the Falkirk stadium into delirium. That goal meaning Rangers have set a new club record- 23 away games without a clean sheet. The Bairns would then chase a victory, catching Rangers on the break after a slack Mohammed Diomande pass, Alfredo Agyeman broke forward but his strike went just past the post and Brian Graham would come an inch away from squeezing hot shot from close range under Butland, with the former England goalkeeper just catching his effort by landing on top of the ball. In the end it was to end all square, with chants from the away end of ‘Russell Martin, get out of our club’ it is difficult to see how the former Scotland defender carries on from here as we head into an international break and an opportunity for the Ibrox board to look for potential replacements. For the hosts it is a valuable point that lifts them above Dundee and out of the relegation playoff spot. Falkirk Bain 6; Adams 6, Henderson 6, Neilson 6, McCann 7, Spencer 6, Tait 6 (Cartwright 8), Wilson 6 (Agyeman 6), Williams 7 (Arfield 5), Miller 6 (Samuel-Ogunsuyi 5), MacIver 5 (Graham 5) Subs not used: Hogarth, Oliver, Allan, Lissah Rangers Butland 6; Tavernier 6, Souttar 6, Djiga 7, Cornelius 8; Barron 6 (Bajrami 5), Rothwell 6 (Diomande 5), Raskin 6 (Aasgaard 5); Moore 6 (Antman 6), Gassama 7, Miovski 7 (Chermiti 6) Subs not used: Kelly; Aarons, Cameron, Meghoma Att: 7652

Scottish Cup First Round Roundup: Cup Magic Returns

After Auchinleck Talbot secured the Ayrshire bragging rights with their 2-1 victory over Cumnock in the first match of the Scottish Cup’s first round weekend live on television Friday night, the rest of the inaugural round proper kicked off yesterday. The whole of tier five joined the competition, adding to the 38 junior sides who successfully advanced from the preliminary rounds at the end of August, with some shocks across the country, setting up the chance for some big ties against SPFL League 2 opposition in the second round later this month. Cumbernauld Colts also secured their place in round two on Friday, defeating Glasgow University 4-0. Here is a full rundown of Saturday’s results: Bo’ness United 0-3 Banks O’ Dee The Aberdeenshire side showed no signs of travel fatigue as they returned North from Falkirk with a thumping victory over their East of Scotland Premier Division opponents who had lost their goalkeeper to a red card late in the first half. Berwick Rangers 0-2 Nairn County The longest away day of the round did not phase the Highland League outfit one bit as they travelled across the border to the only English side in the competition and returned with a 2-0 victory, becoming the first ever Highland League side to defeat The Wee Gers in the competition. Brora Rangers 0-1 Fraserburgh The Broch emerged victorious from this all-Highland League encounter. Having already defeated Brora 3-0 in the league fixture in early August at home, they secured the double over their opponents thanks to a Logan Watt goal inside the opening five minutes. Carluke Rovers 0-4 Gretna 2008 2008, the phoenix club of 2006 Scottish Cup finalists Gretna edged one step closer to another cup final with a thumping victory at the John Cumming Stadium. The Lowland League’s bottom side getting a much needed victory with a quartet of second half goals. Clachnacuddin 2-1 Kilwinning Rangers Another Highland League victory seen Inverness’s oldest club emerge victorious over the Buffs at Grant Street Park, coming from behind with two second half goals to send the visitors back to Ayrshire dejected and eliminated. Cowdenbeath 1-2 Benburb The shock of the round as West of Scotland First Division (tier 7) side Benburb defeated one-time quarter finalists and Lowland League side Cowdenbeath at Central Park. A goal behind at half time the visitors scored twice in five minutes to turn the match around and secure their place in the hat for tomorrow’s draw. Forres Mechanics 0-2 Caledonian Braves Lowland League outfit Caley Braves defeated their Highland counterparts away from home to make it through. The 2025 Fenix Trophy winners kept their Scottish Cup dreams alive thanks to a duo of late goals from Ross McNeil and Cammy Breadner. Huntly 1-3 Buckie Thistle Buckie emerged victorious from this Highland League tie, three second half goals turned the tide as Thistle make it through. They memorably faced Celtic in 2023/24 and are one step closer to a cash-generating tie with this victory. Jeanfield Swifts 0-4 Clydebank Clydebank are unbeaten in the Lowland League and their mentality and confidence was on full show with a thumping victory over Jeanfield away from home. Clydebank memorably drew Premiership side Hibernian last season and will be dreaming of another big tie after today’s win. The 1990 semi finalists victory was secured via goals from Neil McLaughlin, former Aberdeen midfielder Nicky Low and a Kier Samson double. Lochee United 1-3 Brechin City Now a Highland League side, Brechin were playing Championship football as recently as 2018 but have dropped out of the football league since. They did, however, show signs of a more promising future with a 3-1 win at Thomson Park to earn their place in this evening’s draw, where they could once again face SPFL opponents. Musselburgh Athletic 2-0 Bonnyton Thistle East of Scotland Premier Division champions Musselburgh secured their place in the next round of the cup with two second half goals against eighth tier Bonnyton. The hosts lost out on a place in the Lowland League at the end of last season, losing to West champions Clydebank but could earn a rematch against the Bankies in the next round. Strathspey Thistle 1-2 Dundee North End Highland outfit Strathspey took the lead over their opponents, the Midland League champions, but a late equaliser and extra-time winner would see the Dundee based side emerge victorious, leaving the hosts to concentrate league football up North. Turrif United 2-1 Hill of Beath Hawthorn Turiff took the game to their opponents from the off, racing into a two goal lead at the interval, with both goals coming within the first quarter of the half. Hill of Beath would respond with a goal ten minutes from the end and would push hard for extra-time but had left themselves too much to do and would drop out of the competition. Bo’ness Athletic 2-1 Keith Bo’ness have had a dramatic rise in recent years, winning three consecutive promotions from tier 9 to tier 6, scoring a record breaking amount of goals. They continued their journey by progressing to the second round for the second consecutive year by defeating Keith 2-1. The visitors famously faced Rangers in this competition in the mid-90’s but there will be no repeat this season as they exit at round one. Johnstone Burgh 4-0 Threave Rovers Last season’s Junior Cup winners advanced in the Scottish Cup proper with a comfortable victory over their Second Division opponents at Keanie Park. Four different goal scorers for the Burgh, with a goal of the competition contender from captain Del Esplin, who spoke with SNN in pre-season about lifting the Junior Cup for his side. Bonnyrigg Rose 2-1 Broxburn Athletic Two East coast rivals met in this crunch cup tie, Bonnyrigg recently relegated from League 2 emerged victorious despite conceding a goal late on, and will be relishing the chance to face opponents who contributed to their relegation once again to prove they can compete at their level again in the near future. Camelon

“Headache Every Week” – David Gray On Hibs Goalkeeping Dilemma Ahead of Trip to Celtic

Hibernian travel to Celtic Park on Saturday looking to make history and become the first Hibs side to win at the home of the Scottish Premiership champions since 2010. David Gray’s side head into the match away to Brendan Rodgers’ unbeaten Hoops off the back of six matches without a win across all competitions, but like the hosts, remain undefeated in the league with one win and four draws so far in the Premiership. However, a Premier Sports Cup defeat at Ibrox was followed by a two each draw away at newly promoted Falkirk, where the Hibees managed to leave with a single point despite being two goals ahead of the Bairns on 44 minutes. Gray has recruited strongly over the past two seasons and has build an excellent core of players but one position has been called into question ahead of the trip to Glasgow. Goalkeeper. Following Tuesday evening’s score draw at Falkirk, Gray spoke about his depth of options between the sticks: “I think this is something that you can get caught up in with labels who’s your number one? “I think goalkeepers are always in a position where, it’s a very vulnerable place, if you make a mistake, there’s no hiding place for them, they both get the opportunity every single day in training, and I think both goalies have done well when they’ve played. “I’ve spoken to Smudge [Jordan Smith] a few times about areas in which he’s been disappointing with some goals he’s lost, but he has also had some big performances. “In terms of the goalkeeping department, I’ve got two very good goalkeepers at the club, and it’s another headache for me every single week, to decide what we’re going to do.” Gray was questioned on the situation after opting to retain usual backup Raphael Sallinger between the sticks of the league match against Falkirk, having played in the previous weekend’s cup clash at Ibrox. Gray gave his reasoning behind the decision: “Rafael was always going to play the Rangers game, that was something we decided beforehand. “I spoke to goalkeepers about that, it wasn’t as if I was looking at Smudge thinking that I need to change it. “I was just very honest, with Smudge tonight, I seen things in the game at Rangers that I thought would benefit us tonight and for Rafael to keep the gloves. “He was good again tonight, again, I’m not doing it because I felt that there was an issue, I just felt Rafael starting would give us the best opportunity tonight.” With four conceded over the two games, but some good saves in both matches, it will be a big call for the former Hibs captain whether he reinstates long-term first choice Smith for the clash at Parkhead or continues with the Austrian understudy who featured these past two weeks. Celtic, whilst in good form, head into the match amid a fury of fan protests against their incumbent board after a poor transfer window and shock UEFA Champions League exit to Karait Almaty in the qualifying round.  

McTominay and Weir Represent Scotland on Football’s Biggest Stage

Midfielders Scott McTominay and Caroline Weir were celebrated at the recent Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris. McTominay’s stunning form for Napoli earned him an 18th-place finish in the men’s rankings. His outstanding debut season in Serie A not only saw him win the league’s Player of the Year award but also helped fire Napoli to the Scudetto over Champions League finalists Inter Milan. The midfielder’s high ranking placed him above players like Jude Bellingham, Erling Haaland, and Virgil van Dijk, with Ousmane Dembele taking home the top prize. On the women’s side, Caroline Weir became the first Scottish woman to ever receive a Ballon d’Or nomination. Finishing 30th, she was a part of a field that saw Aitana Bonmatí claim the award for a third straight year. Weir’s journey started at Hibernian, before moves to clubs like Liverpool, Manchester City, and now Real Madrid. She has netted 31 goals in 59 appearances since moving to Spain.