Thistle progress to League Cup last eight after seeing off Ayr
Partick Thistle 2- 0 Ayr United O’Reilly (41′) Chalmers (45′) Two late first-half goals ensured victory for Partick Thistle, as they swept aside Ayr United in the Premier Sports Cup Round of 16. The two sides met for the first time since Brian Graham’s dramatic late winner in the Premiership playoffs after both teams had successfully navigated their respective Premier Sports Cup group stage. Partick Thistle dominated large portions of the first half. Logan Chalmers’ clever through ball found Letsosa on the left side of the box, but David Mitchell gathered the resultant cross. Chalmers picked up another nice position in the same area soon after, but could not trouble the Ayr goalie. Tony Watt ‘s clever header released Aiden Fitzpatrick, who beat a defender and arrowed a left-footed off the post. Thistle had a goal disallowed in 12 minutes when Watt’s header was clawed out by David Mitchell, Fitzpatrick scored the rebound, but the game was brought back for an earlier incident. Ayr United scored 14 goals across their four group games but hardly threatened Clarke’s goal in the opening 45 minutes. Partick continued to create chances, with Watt finding space in the box after positive play from Letsosa, but the former Motherwell striker couldn’t sort his feet in the box and his tame strike was easily gathered. Thistle deservedly took the lead on 41 minutes as Chalmers’ deep cross was met in the air by Daniel O’Reilly, who headed back across goal past Mitchell to the delight of the home support. The Chalmers show continued on the stroke of halftime, picking up a positive area on the right edge of the box, he unleashed a low strike that arrowed into the bottom corner. It was a positive first half for Mark Wilson’s side, who looked set to gain another scalp over their Ayrshire rivals. Scott Brown demanded a response at halftime, but unfortunately for the former Celtic captain, the second began much like the first had ended, as the Jags swept forward in numbers to create numerous openings. Cam Reading came closest but his low strike was straight at Mitchell. Aiden Fitzpatrick had a golden chance to make it three, after Thistle had pinched possession, then Tony Watt played the winger in on goal., but dragged his shot inches wide. Partick Thistle were yet to register a victory in the Scottish Championship this season, but showed signs that they could once again challenge for the playoff positions. McPherson, Chalmers, Letsosa, Fitzpatrick, and Watt had all linked well during the game, and should have put the game beyond Ayr on many occasions. Ben Stanway had the next chance after 84 minutes, his drilled strike was palmed away by David Mitchell, who had endured a busy afternoon, ending with victory for the home side. Partick Thistle: Clarke McPherson (Logan 66’) Ashcroft O’Reilly Reading Stanway Crawford Chalmers Letsosa (Falconer 85’) Fitzpatrick (Lawless 73’) Watt (Samuel 73’) Bookings: Crawford 78’ Ayr United: Mitchell Watret McAllister Want (Main 19’) Dick Thomas Bannigan Ure Bonnar (Hastie 46’) McKenzie Oakley Bookings: Mitchell 40’ Bannigan 45+1’ Ure 55’ Thomas 71’ Attendance: 3,124
Celtic put four past Falkirk to claim last eight League Cup berth
Celtic 4-1 Falkirk Maeda (25′) Johnston (54′) Murray (61′) Henderson (64′ 0g) Adams (67′) Celtic progressed to the Premier Sports Quarter Final Draw after a convincing four-goal victory against Falkirk. Maeda headed the champions into the lead after 25 minutes, before three more goals in a ruthless 10-minute second-half spell killed off the Bairns, who pulled one back through Keelan Adams which was nothing more than a consolation. Brendan Rodgers made six changes from Celtic’s 2-0 victory at Pittodrie on Sunday against a Falkirk team unbeaten in their group, who themselves made two changes from the disappointing 3-1 league defeat at Livingston last weekend. Celtic started brightly, establishing a high tempo for much of the opening period. James Forrest cushioned a Maeda cross into the path of Johnny Kenny, but the striker flashed wide for the opening chance of the game. Liam Henderson almost gifted Celtic the lead on 11 minutes when his attempted backpass caught out Scott Bain, but luckily trickled past the post to keep the scores level. Kieran Tierney was next to try his luck, but Bain was alert to turn his fizzing strike behind for a corner. Arne Engels crashed a free kick off the crossbar before Celtic eventually took the lead minutes later. Callum McGregor clipped a delicate ball to Tierney, the left back cushioned his header across goal for the onrushing Daizen Maeda to head home for a deserved opener. Falkirk rarely threatened Viljami Sinisalo in the Celtic goal but looked a threat on the counter. The Finnish goalkeeper was alert to tip Calvin Millar’s 20-yard strike past the post, and block Alfie Agyeman’s low strike. Forrest had a golden chance to double the lead, but he headed Luke McCowan’s back-post cross over the bar. Despite wave after wave of Celtic attacks, they were unable to add to Maeda’s heading finish. Celtic started the second half exactly how they ended the first – on the front foot. Forrest’s powerful strike was tipped behind by Bain, and the former teammates exchanged a wry smile as the goalkeeper came out on top again. A barrage of Engels corner kicks followed before the home side eventually doubled their lead. It was the unlikely source of right back Alistair Johnston who fired a left-footed strike into the bottom corner after Millar surrendered possession. The 3rd goal followed on the hour mark as Engels whipped another pinpoint corner kick, which Dane Murray glanced home, rounding off a dream day after signing a new three-year deal hours before. Celtic had the ball in the net again three minutes later. Yang burst down the left, and his cross was met by the knee of Falkirk defender Henderson. He could only watch helplessly as the ball trickled into the Falkirk net. It was a blistering ten-minute spell from Celtic, showcasing the attacking intent that secured a fourth straight Scottish Premiership title last season. The visitors did find consolation soon after, an arrowing Adams strike from the right-hand side of the box whistled past Sinisalo in goal. Celtic regained their composure soon after and they were unable to add to their lead, but Rodgers will be pleased with the comprehensive nature of their victory against the Championship winners.
Cadden winner seals Euro Playoff for Hibs
Hibernian 2-3 Partizan Belgrade Bowie (59′) Cadden (100′ ET) Vukotic (17′) Milosevic (44′) Kostic (90+5′) Hibs advance 4-3 on aggregate Chris Cadden’s 100th-minute strike settled a nervy aggregate victory for Hibs against Partizan Belgrade to set up a play-off showdown with Legia Warsaw. Two Jordan Smith blunders had levelled the tie at halftime, before a sensational 35-yard Kieron Bowie strike put Hibs ahead. Andrej Kostic sent the game to extra time with a 95th-minute equaliser before Cadden’s winning goal. David Gray made one change from the side that won 2-0 in Serbia a week ago, as Josh Campbell replaced the injured Jamie McGrath. The home side had an early chance to extend their aggregate lead when a deflected cross from Martin Boyle fell to Chris Cadden, but he fired his shot straight at Partizan goalkeeper Milosevic. Perhaps a missed opportunity to kill off the tie. But the visitors took the lead after 17 minutes. Vukotic found space on the edge of the box and unleashed a strike that looked routine for Smith. But the Hibs keeper could only get a hand to it, tipping the ball into the net and leaving the home side stunned. Boyle’s teasing cross was tipped away, leading to a corner, from which Dylan Levitt delivered a brilliant left-footed cross to the back post, where Rocky Bushiri rose highest but could only head the ball wide, missing a great opportunity to level the score. The half went from bad to worse for Hibs when another goalkeeping blunder gifted Partizan their second goal. Mario Jurcevic charged down the left side, his low cross found its way to Milosevic, whose tame left-footed shot somehow squirmed under Smith’s body and crossed the line. In the dying moments of the half, Jurcevic was again involved on the left, sending in a cross that struck Warren O’Hora’s arm inside the box, bringing play to a halt for a VAR check as a sobering first half for the home side drew to a close. Despite the two mistakes, Gray kept faith with Smith for the second half and Hibs started to find their way into the game, despite from doggedness from Partizan’s youthful team. Step forward Kieron Bowie. A hopeful ball forward bounced kindly for the striker, without thought, he unleashed a dipping strike which arched over the helpless Marko Milosevic. The home support erupted, knowing that this goal would be remembered in the green side of Edinburgh for years to come. Within minutes, it got even better. Partizan defender Nikola Simic took down the goalscorer to receive his second yellow and his marching orders to prematurely end his night. The home side began to play with freedom after a crucial five-minute period and a positive move between Bowie and Cadden saw the latter whip a right-footed cross to Boyle, who volleyed wide. They had the ball in the net again on the 70th minute through substitute Nicky Cadden, but Boyle was narrowly offside in the build-up. Smith came up with two big saves in quick succession. Firstly, blocking a low shot, and then tipping Milosevic’s effort over the bar. A big confidence boost at a crucial time, backing up Gray’s decision to stick with him. As the game reached the 90th minute, the home side looked set to secure a place in the playoff round of the Conference League. However, Easter Road was left stunned after a neat Partizan move saw 18-year-old substitute Andrej Kostic finish at the near post. It was agony for the home faithful, with seconds of normal time remaining, the aggregate score was tied. Hibernian hit back in extra time as the game ticked over 100 minutes. Milosevic, in the Partizan goal, parried Mulligan’s strike into the path of the onrushing Chris Cadden. The defender missed a golden chance in the early stages of the game but made no mistake to thrash the ball into the open net. The outstanding Bowie almost settled the game, taking a positive touch on the edge of the box, his left-footed strike narrowly evaded the right post. Smith came up with a huge save moments later, a straight forward through ball found Jurcevic, but the Hibs goalkeeper did superbly to tip the strike around the post, with a Junior Hoilett effort rounding off a breathless opening 15 minutes. Nicky Cadden had the best chance of the second period, arriving at the back post but could not deflect his shot or header on goal. The home side’s high line almost caught them out moments later. Mario Jurcevic fired home, but the play was brought back for another offside infringement. Partizan came close again when goal scorer Kostic hit the post in the closing stages. The full-time whistle blew on a marathon evening in Leith as the fans celebrated in the stands, with a sense of relief as they managed to prolong their stay in Europe United sunk by penalties as Vienna recover to claim play-off berth The mood at Tannadice was very different by contrast as Rapid Vienna needed penalties to get past Dundee United and send Jim Goodwin’s men crashing out of the Conference League. The Arabs returned from the Austrian capital with a hard-fought 2-2 draw last week so knew the tie was far from over in Dundee as a play-off spot was at stake. Max Watters nodded in the opening goal for United and added a second from the penalty before the break to make it 2-0 and give themselves the best chance of going through. Rapid hit back through Janis Antiste, whose cross in was deflected into the United net with Ercan Cara notching an equaliser on the night and on aggregate to make sure the tie went the distance. Both sides couldn’t be separated any further as the game went to penalties, where Amar Fatah’s first penalty for United, which struck the post, was the only one not to be converted, as Rapid Vienna claimed the victory in the end.
Goodwin aims for “memorable” evening in Europe
Resilience has been plentiful in Jim Goodwin’s managerial career. From the historic lows of a shock cup defeat to Darvel to the ultimate disappointment of championship relegation, he’s faced significant challenges. Now, as his depleted Dundee United squad prepares for a crucial Conference League qualifier against Rapid Vienna, he’ll need his players to demonstrate that same strength of character. The task ahead is immense. As Goodwin revealed, the team was missing “seven or eight influential players” for their recent 3-2 defeat against Hearts and key figures like Ryan Strain, Ross Graham and Kristian Trapanovski remain sidelined for the visit of Rapid Vienna. Their absence leaves significant gaps in a squad that is already struggling. The third-round qualifying tie hangs in the balance after a thrilling 2-2 first leg. In a gutsy performance, United twice fought back from a goal down to secure a draw, keeping their European dream alive. New signings Zac Sapsford and Max Watters were instrumental, scoring the crucial goals and looking like a real threat throughout the match. Goodwin described the atmosphere as “hostile”, “The players put in a great performance, we’ve taken learnings from the game and areas that we think we can improve and do better, I think both goals against were certainly avoidable.” Rapid Vienna dominated large portions of the first leg and spurned several chances in the Allianz Stadion. They followed up the 2-2 draw with an impressive 2-1 win against Champions League hopefuls Sturm Graz. Goodwin knows that “they will take a lot of confidence from that. What’s at stake? The winner will advance to the play-off round, just two games away from securing a spot in the Conference League group stage. They will face the winner of the match between Swedish side AIK Stockholm and Hungary’s FC Gyor. Jim Goodwin’s thoughts “There won’t be any need or motivational speeches from me. The players know what is at stake, they know the opportunity that they’ve got and it should make for a fantastic fixture. “But at the flip side, we know that Rapid Vienna are a really good team and probably still in a lot of peoples eyes are favourites, albeit they are the away team. “With a really good home support, I’m led to believe the game is practically sold out. I don’t think there is a ticket to have, but if the fans can get behind the team, generate a really positive atmosphere and drive the players on, hopefully it will be a memorable one that we look back on in years to come.”
Last Minute Stuart Findlay Winner Settles 5 Goal Thriller at Tannadice
Dundee Utd 2 – 3 Hearts Dolcek (22′ 40′) Shankland (19′ pen) Findlay (58′ 90+4′) Stuart Findlay’s 94th-minute winner completed a 2nd half Hearts comeback at Tannadice. Lawrence Shankland put the visitors ahead from the penalty box before a brilliant Ivan Dolcek double. Stuart Findlay levelled the game in the 2nd half with a towering header and won the game in the final minute, causing pandemonium in the packed out away end. Dundee United produced a gusty performance to draw 2-2 away against Rapid Vienna in Conference League qualifying on Thursday night. Jim Goodwin hailed his side’s character after the game, and would need more of the same as their injury list claimed another victim in Isaac Pappoe. Hearts enjoyed a perfect start to their league campaign on Monday night, Derek McInnes’s side defeating his old side Aberdeen 2-0 in Gorgie. He encouraged his side to take advantage of United’s lack of preparation following their European away trip 3 days ago. Hearts started the match well, Harry Milne’s teasing corner found Frankie Kent, who headed just over the bar for the first chance of the game. Dundee United quickly responded when Sevelj unleashed a powerful strike from the edge of the box. The shot forced Scottish international keeper Zander Clark to be alert and tip the ball around the post. Claudio Braga is quickly becoming a fan favourite in Gorgie, he linked up well with Milne but the deflected cross narrowly missed Alan Forrest at the back post. Moments later, the Portuguese number 10 showed clever movement to find space in the box, but his header lacked the power to trouble goalkeeper Kucherenko. Hearts took a deserved lead in the 19th minute. Stuart Findlay was dragged down in the box, winning a penalty. Club captain Lawrence Shankland calmly slotted home his first league goal of the season to put the Jambos ahead. However, Dundee United equalised just three minutes later. After winning a free-kick on the edge of the box, new signing Ivan Dolcek stepped up to whip a marvellous strike past Zander Clark. Harry Milne was involved in both Hearts’ goals against Aberdeen last Monday, he was once again a threat down the left flank. Despite the away side dominating possession for much of the half, they struggled to create clear-cut chances. The homeside, however, were growing more dangerous as the half concluded. After a turnover in possession, Zac Sapsford found space in the box, but the Australian’s strike was blocked by Craig Halkett. The home side continued to press, and soon after, Dolcek found space in the box and dispatched powerfully under Clark to give the home side the lead. Sapsford almost made it 3 soon after, but his shot was blocked by Clark. The away side had the final chance of the half. Braga was set up by a Shankland knockdown but Kuckerenko got down low to save. The game was entertaining and evenly matched, but the homeside held the advantage at halftime. Derek McInnes demanded a response from his team, making two changes at halftime. He brought off Alan Forrest for Alexandros Kyziridis, and introduced Steinwender for Kent. The second half started much like the first, with the visitors dominating possession but struggling to create a meaningful end product. A promising moment came when Lawrence Shankland found space on the edge of the box, but his strike was deflected away from goal. The visitors’ persistence paid off on the hour mark. Harry Milne delivered another teasing corner, which Stuart Findlay met with a towering header, delighting the away fans as the team drew level. Dundee United had a golden opportunity to equalise moments later. A misplaced pass from Zander Clark to Camara was seized upon, with the ball being played to the young Owen Stirton. His shot lacked the necessary curl and drifted wide of the post. Kyzridis looked lively off the bench, picking up the ball on the edge of the box, but his shot was blocked. As the match entered its final 15 minutes, the game was finely poised. Both teams battled for control, but neither was able to create any clear-cut chances. Vicko Sevelj tested Zander Clark in the first half with a powerful strike, he found space on the edge of the box again in the closing stages but couldn’t convert. But it was Hearts who would dramatically win the game. A corner kick from Kyziridis found its way to Stuart Findlay, who converted his 2nd headed goal of the game and the winner for The Jambos. The 2,000 travelling fans erupted. Dundee United welcome Rapid Vienna to Tannadice on Thursday night, the game is set up nicely after an entertaining 2-2 draw in the first leg. Hearts travel to Paisley next Saturday to face St Mirren in the League Cup, after four wins out of four in the group stage. The Jambos will hope to continue their positive form in the knockout rounds. Dundee United: Kucherenko Iovu Esselink Keresztes Thomson Dolcek Sevelj Camara (Fotheringham 66′) Sibbald Stirton Sapsford (Fatah 66′) Bookings: Keresztes 43′ Camara 50′ Hearts: Clark Findlay Halkett Kent (Steinwender 46′) Forrest (Kyziridis 46′) Milne (Kingsley 77′) McEntee Devlin Spittal (Kerjota 63′) Shankland Braga (Wilson 84′) Bookings: Milne 31′ Braga 83′ Findlay 90+4′ Attendance: 10,874
Dundee United Disrupt Rapid Vienna with Tremendous Away Draw
Rapid Vienna 2 – 2 Dundee United Dahl 27′ Seidl 44′ Watters 33′ Sapsford 75′ Dundee United produced a marvellous away performance, drawing 2-2 in the first leg of their 3rd round Conference League play-off against Rapid Vienna. Jim Goodwin made a single change to the side that drew 2-2 with Falkirk, bringing back Will Ferry for Ivan Dolcek. The visitors settled well in Vienna, limiting the home side to little more than long-range efforts in the opening 20 minutes. Deflected strikes from Sangare and Dahl were the closest Rapid came. A most frustrating moment for Jim Goodwin came when a midfield challenge forced Isaac Pappoe off with an injury, replaced by Ivan Dolcek. The substitute made his presence felt almost immediately, bursting down the right flank and delivering a low cross that nearly reached Max Watters at the back post. Rapid took the lead on 27 minutes. A whipped cross from the right was met by the well-timed run of Petter Nosakhare Dahl, who put the home side ahead. United, after settling so well, would be frustrated with how easily the goal was given up. Rapid could have doubled their lead when Antiste found space, but the angle was against him and he slammed his shot into the near post. Despite Rapid’s pressure, Dundee United hit back. Zac Sapsford drove to the left byline, showing great composure to cut the ball back to Max Watters, who slotted home. The traveling 1,000 Arab fans in the Allianz Stadion erupted. It was Sapsford’s third goal involvement for the club in Europe and Watters’s second goal in as many games—an excellent return for the new summer signings. Rapid continued to threaten, coming close from a corner routine where captain Seidl dragged his shot wide. However, they retook the lead on 44 minutes. Once again, a ball came in from the right. A United defender got to it, but the clearance was poor, leaving Matthias Seidl to ram the abandoned ball into the gaping goal just before halftime. With the home side threatening continually, it was key for the visitors to get in to the break only 2-1 behind. As they halftime whistle blew, Goodwin had 15 minutes to regroup his players. The home side finished 5th in the Austrian Bundesliga, Peter Stoger would have been pleased with large portions of their first half display. Dundee United started the second half on the front foot. Sapsford had the first real chance, latching onto a loose ball at the edge of the box, but his strike was hit straight at the Rapid goalkeeper. Rapid Vienna soon grew into the game, venturing forward at will. They created a good opportunity when Horn was released on the left side of the box, but his shot blazed over the bar. United were living dangerously. Camara, who had been a standout performer in a previous match against Falkirk, made a costly error on the ball. This allowed Sangare to feed Radulovic, whose shot was thankfully dragged wide of the goal. At this point, Dundee United had goalkeeper Yevhen Kucherenko to thank for keeping them in the game. He made a brilliant save to tip a header onto the crossbar and away, followed moments later by another good stop from Sangare’s curling strike. Kucherenko then gathered an audacious flick from Antiste to keep the scores level. Despite Vienna’s dominance, their finishing had been wasteful, and they were made to pay for it in the 75th minute. After United turned over possession, Ivan Dolcek slipped a ball through to Zac Sapsford. The Australian striker showed great composure, slotting his first-time strike across Hedl and into the bottom corner. It was a clinical finish from the away side, who had been pinned back for large portions of the second half. As the match entered the final ten minutes, both teams had a sense that a winner could be found. Craig Sibbald made a vital challenge in the box to stop Bolla from getting a shot away. Rapid continued to attack in waves as the game drew to a close, but United’s defence remained strong. They were fortunate, however, in the 88th minute when a well-worked cross from the right was deflected behind by Kucherenko. A long-range strike from Raux-Yao took a huge deflection off a United jersey but narrowly evaded the goal. Rapid thought they had found a late winner two minutes into stoppage time when Louis Schaub headed home at the back post, but the goal was correctly disallowed for an earlier offside. The final whistle blew on a brilliant result for Dundee United. Their players showed great character to come back from a goal down on two occasions and disrupt the Austrian giants. This sets up a tantalising return leg at Tannadice next Thursday. Rapid Vienna have an important match away to last season’s Austrian champions Sturm Graz. United are also back to league action on Sunday afternoon, welcoming Derek McInnes’ Hearts to Tannadice. Rapid Vienna: Hedl, Bolla, Cvetkovic, Roux-Yao, Horn, Sangare, Amane (Grgic 75’), Seidl (M’Buyi 87’), Dahl (Wurmbrand 75’), Antiste (Kara 87’), Radulovic (Schaub 61’) Bookings: Raux-Yao 72’ Dundee United: Kucherenko, Esselink, Iovu, Sevlj, Camara, Sapsford (Fotheringham 93’), Ferry, Sibbald, Keresztes, Watters (Stirton 64’), Pappoe (Dolcek 18’) Bookings:
Rangers Back on Track after Resounding win over Plzen
Rangers 3-0 Viktoria Plzen Gassama (15′ 51′) Dessers (45′ pen) Rangers took a huge step towards the Champions League Play-off round after a 3-0 victory in the 3rd round 1st leg against Viktoria Plzen. Demanding a response after an opening-day draw against Motherwell, Russell Martin made four changes to his team. He dropped club captain James Tavernier and Nico Raskin to the bench, while bringing in last year’s top goalscorer Cyriel Dessers and new signing Oliver Antman. Martin also rewarded Lyall Cameron with his first European start after singling out the former Dundee midfielder’s efforts off the bench on Saturday. Coming off a thrilling 2-0 comeback win against Swiss side Servette last week, the visitors had the first real chance of the game. Memic found space on the right and delivered a cross, but last week’s hero, Durosinmi, couldn’t direct his shot on target. However, it was Rangers who took the lead with a clever move in the 14th minute. Gassama played a sharp pass to Dessers, who immediately returned it with a delicate through ball. The winger then skillfully curled his shot past Wiegele, netting his third European goal of the campaign. The goal brought Ibrox to life after a quiet start. Despite going behind, the Czech side looked threatening. Memic once again found room on the right, but his drilled pass intended for captain Matej Vydra was well blocked by Djida. Rangers quickly countered, with Lyall Cameron picking out Gassama on the left. The winger’s pass found new signing Oliver Antman, but his shot was blocked right on the line. Manager Russell Martin, who had been critical of his team’s performance on Saturday, would have been delighted with his side’s attacking football. Although Plzen enjoyed a brief spell of pressure, the home side consistently created the better scoring opportunities. Rangers’ good play was rewarded on the stroke of halftime. Gassama released Oliver Antman into the box, and after being fouled, Cyriel Dessers calmly slotted the resulting penalty past the towering 6-foot-9 Wiegele, sending Rangers into the break with a commanding lead. The fulltime whistle on Saturday evening was met with rousing boos from the Rangers faithful; tonight was a stark contrast. The second half began with the home side picking up right where they left off. Cyriel Dessers linked up with Diomande, whose curling left-footed strike from the edge of the box narrowly clipped the top of the crossbar. Just minutes later, Rangers found their third goal with another efficient attack. The electric Oliver Antman burst down the right and delivered a perfect cross for Gassama, who glanced in for his second goal of the night. After the hour mark, Plzen began to show signs of life. Sloncik came close with a shot from the edge of the box, but it sailed just over the bar. Despite the visitors’ late pressure, Rangers maintained control. Standout performances were plentiful for the home side. Both Dessers and Lyall Cameron had exceptional games and were deservedly given a rousing ovation as they were substituted in the 73rd minute. Hoping to replicate their success in Scotland from last year—when they beat Hearts in a Europa League playoff—Viktoria Plzen fought to find a consolation goal. Memic fired a powerful 35-yard shot, but it was straight at Jack Butland. In the final minutes, Sloncik’s whipped free-kick sailed just over the crossbar. As the final whistle blew, a palpable sense of optimism filled Ibrox. This was a clinical and much-improved performance from Russell Martin’s men. They appear well on their way to the Champions League play-off round but will first travel to Czechia next Tuesday for the return leg. Rangers: Butland, Aarons (Barron 74′), Souttar, Djida, Jefte, Rothwell (Raskin 64′), Cameron (Tavernier 74′), Diomande, Antman (Curtis 85′), Gassama Dessers (Danilo 74′) Bookings: Raskin 31’ Jefte 41’ Raskin 64’ Viktoria Plzen: Wiegele, Dweh, Markovic, Jemelka, Memic, Panos (Valenta 46’), Cerv, Ladra (Visinsky 56’), Spacil (Doski 87′), Vydra (Sloncik 57’), Durosinmi (Adu 65’) Bookings: Markovic 19’ Valenta 87′
Points Shared in The Bairns First Top Flight Match for 15 Years
Falkirk 2 – 2 Dundee United Tait 50′ Ross 73′ Watters 40′ Dolcek 71′ Newly promoted Falkirk and European hopefuls Dundee United shared 4 goals in a thrilling match. New signings Watters and Dolcek had twice put Jim Goodwin’s team ahead, but Dylan Tait and Ethan Ross hit back for The Bairns. Falkirk were playing their first top-flight game since May 2010, and started quickly. After working the ball well on the left, a whipped cross was inches in front of summer signing Brian Graham. Falkirk’s best chance came after 20 minutes, McCann’s cross from the left evaded Kucherenko, but Calvin Millar could not deflect goalwards. John McGlynn’s side were dominating the ball, but the final touch, pass, or strike was not sticking for them. Dundee United were coming off the back of their European away trip to Luxembourg. They looked lethargic at first but grew into the game after the 20th minute. New signing Camara drove down the right after Brad Spencer gave up possession, the onrushing Max Watters met his cross, but the header lacked power. The aforementioned Camara had been excellent in the first period; he was both physical and dynamic, regularly running at the Falkirk backline. Jim Goodwin looked a frustrated figure for much of the first period, but his side took the lead on 39 minutes. The ball dropped for Max Watters following a cross, and he powerfully dispatched it past Scott Bain. The home side responded with further pressure, but Brian Graham was unable to bundle a loose ball into the net. After Scott Arfield dragged a shot wide, the referee blew his halftime whistle. Despite being behind, there was plenty of encouragement for the Scottish Championship winners. Falkirk drew level at the start of the second half. Adams broke down the right-hand side, and his cross was laid off to Dylan Tait, who dispatched past Kucherenko. The Bairns were wasteful in the first period, but this move was slick from John McGlynn’s team. Veterans Brian Graham and Scott Arfield were brought off for Ross MacIver and Aiden Nisbett. Nisbett was involved in a corner kick move that left Ethan Ross in space, but his strike was straight at Kucherenko. Dundee United hadn’t been at their best for the opening hour, but looked threatening on the counterattack. Summer signing Zac Sapsford managed a goal and an assist over two legs against Strassen and was causing problems down the Falkirk left. He found space in the box after cutting in but dragged the left-footed shot wide. Falkirk threatened again through substitute Ross MacIver, Ethan Ross picked up the ball and played through the big striker, but his strike was dragged wide. The game sparked back to life after 70 minutes with two quick goals. New signings, Camara and Dolcek, linked on the left side of the box, the latter beat Bain at his near post to send the United fans into raptures. But Falkirk bounced back immediately, Keelan Adam’s low cross found Ethan Ross, and his deflected shot evaded Kucherenko. With five minutes of additional time, both support groups were hopeful of securing the victory. However, these two sides would have to settle for a draw. For Falkirk, they visit Livingston next weekend, and for United, a trip to Austria in the 3rd Round of conference league qualifying. Falkirk: Bain, Adams, Henderson, Neilson, McCann, Tait (Cartwright 79’), Spencer, Arfield (Nesbitt 58’), Ross, Miller (Agyeman 75’), Graham (Maciver 58’) Bookings: Adams 56’ Dundee United: Kucherenko, Sevelj, Iovu, Esselink, Keresztes, Dolcek, Camara, Sibbald, Pappoe (Thomson 83’), Watters (Stirton 65’), Sapsford. Bookings: Sapsford 49’ Keresztes 61’ Iovu 68’ Pappoe 74’
Late Motherwell Equaliser Stuns Rangers at Fir Park
Motherwell 1-1 Rangers Longelo 87′ , Tavernier 14′ Rangers dropped points for the 3rd straight opening league fixture after a spirited Motherwell comeback Following an entertaining 2-2 draw between Kilmarnock and Livingston, Fir Park was the venue for the 2nd match of the season. It was the away side who started quicker, enjoying the better of the opening exchanges. James Tavernier was the first to test the Motherwell goal, unleashing a whipped free-kick that Calum Ward comfortably gathered. A slick passing move soon followed, with Raskin linking up neatly with Danilo, who then laid the ball off to Gassama. While Gassama’s strike showed promise it lacked the necessary curl to trouble the keeper. Danilo was next to try his luck, but his powerful shot on the edge of the box clipped the crossbar. Rangers’ early pressure deservedly paid off in the 13th minute, summer signing Joe Rothwell’s inviting corner was met by the leaping James Tavernier. The club captain is entering his 11th season for the Ibrox side and will look to remain a key cog for the upcoming campaign. Jens Berthel Askou is aiming to implement a new footballing philosophy at Fir Park as his side played out from the back at every opportunity. While this ambitious approach led to them losing possession on occasion, there were positive signs for the new manager. Their best chance arrived in the 22nd minute when Jack Butland spilt Emmanuel Longelo’s tame effort, Apostolos Stamatelopoulos pounced on the rebound, but his close-range effort was blocked. Rangers maintained their sustained pressure for the remainder of the first half, racking up eight corners in the process. Despite their dominance, they were unable to register any further clear-cut chances. Motherwell seized control of the second half’s opening exchanges. Calum Slattery delivered a whipped free-kick that eluded Jack Butland, but Elijah Just was unable to direct his header towards goal. Slattery then drove effectively at the defence, sliding a ball through to Stamatelopoulos, only for Djiga to make a crucial block. Paul McGinn, captaining the home side for the first time since January, then forced a low save from Jack Butland after finding space inside the box. Rangers manager Russell Martin responded with tactical changes after the hour mark, bringing on Cyriel Dessers and Lyall Cameron. The latter was making his debut and nearly made an immediate impact when the ball fell kindly to him on the edge of the box, but his driven shot was comfortably saved by Calum Ward. Motherwell’s persistent pressure culminated in a deserved equaliser in the 87th minute. Elijah Just chested the ball down to Emmanuel Longelo in the box, who then drilled a low finish into the corner. Askou’s side were impressive for much of the second half, clearly trusting their manager’s style of play and consistently creating scoring opportunities. Rangers increased their tempo after conceding. They linked play well on the right, though Bajrami’s subsequent cross was cleared. Motherwell had a final chance to win the game when a through ball put Tom Sparrow in space, but Jack Butland got down well to make the crucial stop. Overall, the game was a brilliant spectacle – frantic, high-tempo, and with the occasional error. Russell Martin’s Rangers showed promise in the first half but visibly struggled in the second. There is work to be done if they are to close the gap on Celtic, especially with a UEFA Champions League third-round qualifier against Viktoria Plzen scheduled for Tuesday. The Steelmen can take significant positives from their second-half performance as they prepare for their next league fixture away to St Mirren next weekend. Motherwell: Ward, Koutroumbis, Gordon (O’Donnell 71’), McGinn, Longelo, Watt, Slattery (Slattery 90’), Maswanhise, Just (Balmer 90’), Fadinger, Stamatelopoulos (Said 79’) Bookings: Watt 60’ Rangers: Butland, Tavernier, Djiga, Souttar, Aarons, Rothwell (Barron 73’), Diomande (Cameron 63’), Raskin (Bajrami 73’), Dowell, Gassama, Danilo (Dessers 63’) Bookings: Cameron 65’ Aarons 90’ Tavernier 90+2’ Attendance 10,616
Points Shared at Gayfield for Scottish Championship Opener
Arbroath 1-1 Ayr United N. Todorov 89′ , J. Murphy 5′ Arbroath and Ayr opened the championship season with a competitive 1-1 draw at Gayfield. Despite the pre-match flag-raising celebrations for Arbroath, it was Ayr United who started the brighter of the two sides. Just five minutes in, Jamie Murphy opened the scoring with a fierce right-footed shot from the edge of the box. Arbroath started slowly, but eventually sparked into life on the half-hour mark. Craig Watson’s attempt sailed over David Mitchell’s goal, and moments later, Scott Stewart couldn’t convert a close-range header from a Ryan Dow corner. Reilly also tested the Ayr net, but his shot lacked power. A notable theme throughout the game was the intense physicality, with both teams engaging in numerous crunching tackles. Ayr United’s George Oakley was a constant presence and perhaps fortunate to escape with only a yellow card after an apparent forearm strike to the back of Craig Watson’s neck. Ryan Dow had a golden opportunity to equalise but failed to direct a teasing ball from Harry Cochrane on goal. Further good play saw Scott Stewart pick out Marshall, whose reverse pass to the onrushing Wilkie could only find the side netting. Despite Ayr’s early dominance, Scott Brown’s side had plenty of work left to do. Scott Brown made a tactical change at halftime, introducing Celtic loanee Kyle Ure for Dom Thomas. Another Ayr loanee, Jude Bonnar, had the first chance of the second half but couldn’t direct Curtis Main’s cross. Arbroath quickly responded with an opportunity of their own, as David Mitchell well saved Reilly’s close-range strike. The second half mirrored the end of the first, with Arbroath on top and Ayr struggling to regain control. Around the 65-minute mark, Brown again adjusted his tactics, bringing on defensive signing Shaun Want for Curtis Main, who, despite scoring twice against Arbroath in the League Cup, couldn’t add to his tally in this match. Arbroath’s persistence paid off in the 88th minute when super-sub Nikolay Todorov powered home a teasing cross from Craig Watson, sending the Gayfield faithful into raptures and levelling the score. With five minutes of added time, the home support urged their team on for a winner. While they couldn’t find a second goal, Arbroath’s joint managers David Gold and Craig Hamilton can take significant encouragement from their side’s competitive performance against one of last season’s top Championship teams. Scott Brown’s Ayr United started brightly but will undoubtedly be disappointed with their inability to add to their lead. Teams Arbroath: McAdams Wilkie O’Brien Muirhead Flynn Reilly (Pettifer 90+3’) Dow Stewart Watson Marshall (Callachan 72’) Cochrane (Todorov 85’) Bookings: Muirhead 42’ Stewart 60’ Ayr United: Mitchell McAllister Dick Oakley Main Thomas (Ure 46’) Murphy (Rus 70’) Bonnar (Walker 60’) McKenzie Watret (Hastie 70’) McMann Bookings: Bonnar 44’ Oakley (45+3’)