Aberdeen Archives - Page 8 of 10

Crunchtime for Thelin after Aberdeen League Cup Exit

Aberdeen’s difficult start to the season shows no signs of letting up. Following yesterday’s 1-0 League Cup defeat to Motherwell, and with the Dons bottom of the Scottish Premiership, the pressure is mounting ahead of a massive week of away games at Tannadice and Fir Park. A pressing issue is the lack of goals. They have been shut out in all four league matches so far, which must improve if they are to challenge for the Scottish Cup and the top six. Their European campaign offered a brief glimmer of hope when they overturned a two-goal deficit at home against Romanian opponents FCSB. But after a 3-0 loss in Bucharest, they face a huge Conference League challenge against the likes of Shakhtar Donetsk, Strasbourg, and Sparta Prague Even with talented new additions such as Jesper Karlsson, Stuart Armstrong, and Kevin Nisbet, the team has been toothless in front of goal, failing to capitalise on their limited opportunities. The numbers are bleak for Thelin, with a record of just 10 wins in their last 40 games. A combined total of only six shots on target in their last three matches against Falkirk, Livingston, and Motherwell is a reality check of their struggles. The mood is shifting among the supporters, with some already calling for manager Jimmy Thelin to be replaced, suggesting his past success has simply been masking deeper issues.

September 21, 2025

Second Half Screamer Secures League Cup Semi for Motherwell

Aberdeen 0-1 Motherwell Charles-Cook (63′) Motherwell joined St Mirren in the League Cup semi-final, beating Aberdeen at Pittodrie, and piling more pressure on Jimmy Thelin. Regan Charles-Cook’s first goal for Jens Berthel Askou’s side proved to be the difference-maker, his arrowing strike found the top corner to secure the win in the second half. Tawanda Maswinhise was involved in the build-up and went close to scoring earlier in the game when he hit the post. Despite some promising attacks, Aberdeen’s goal drought continued. The Dons’ best chances came from Nicky Devlin and Mats Knoester, both of whom struck efforts off the woodwork in a frustrating afternoon for the home side. The crucial victory was a relief for Motherwell after a string of five straight league draws, validating Askou’s entertaining philosophy at Fir Park. Aberdeen: Mitov, Jensen, Knoester, Dorrington, Gyamfi, Shinnie, Armstrong, Karlsson, Aouchiche, Keskinen, Nisbet. Motherwell: Ward, O’Donnell, Gordon, Welsh, Longelo, Watt, Fadinger, Said, Charles-Cook, Maswanhise, Stamatelopoulos

September 20, 2025

SNN’s Scottish League Cup Quarter Final Preview

Kilmarnock v St Mirren The two sides open proceedings under the lights at BBSP Rugby Park. Killie arrive following a heartbreaking 2-1 league defeat against Champions Celtic, courtesy of a 96th-minute Kelechi Iheanacho penalty. After safely negotiating Group H, they bested Premiership rivals Dundee United in the 2nd Round. Brad Lyons was the hero, thanks to a 69th-minute volley. St Mirren registered their first league victory away at Falkirk last Saturday, currently sitting 4th in the Scottish Premiership. Despite losing their opening group match against Arbroath on penalties, they recovered to top Group D. Narrow victories over Forfar and Ayr, as well as a marauding 8-2 victory over Annan, secured passage. Shamal George was the hero in the 2nd round, saving Claudio Braga’s penalty to progress at the expense of Hearts. Stephen Robinson will have full focus on securing the Buddies’ first trip to Hampden for 5 seasons. Aberdeen v Motherwell Motherwell visit Pittodrie on Saturday afternoon, having drawn their opening five games in the Scottish Premiership. Jens Berthel Askou’s side have impressed with their free-flowing football, summer signings Elliot Watt, Elijah Just, and Lukas Fadinger invigorate the Fir Park midfield. Watt and Fadinger combined in the last round, the latter netted in the 109th minute to fire Askou’s boys into the quarters against relegated St Johnstone. 4 wins out of 4 in Group G. They aim for back-to-back League Cup semi-final appearances, after facing Rangers at Hampden 10 months ago. They face an Aberdeen side who currently sit at the bottom of the Scottish Premiership. With three defeats, one draw, and zero goals scored, the cup game may present a welcome distraction for the Aberdeen faithful. After a 16-game unbeaten start last season, they were beaten 6-0 by Celtic in the League Cup semis. However, this was Thelin’s only domestic cup defeat after securing a famous Scottish Cup victory in May, Aberdeen’s first since 1990. They defeated Morton at Cappielow in the last round, a comfortable 3-0 victory. Rangers v Hibernian Russell Martin remains under serious pressure as Hibernian visit Ibrox on Saturday evening. Their only win in eight games came in the previous League Cup round, a 4-2 victory over 3rd tier Alloa Athletic. A Lawrence Shankland double last Saturday means Martin has failed to win any of his first five league games. The first Rangers manager since John Greig in 1978. He will look to lead Rangers to a second League Cup title in three years, after Philippe Clement’s side beat Aberdeen to the trophy in 2023. They meet David Gray’s Hibernian, who are unbeaten in their previous 3 games against Rangers. Their last trip to Ibrox ended in a 2-0 victory, thanks to goals from Dylan Levitt and Martin Boyle. The Leith side have lost just 2 of 26 league matches after a turbulent start left them bottom in November. They beat Livingston 2-0 in the 2nd round. Goals from summer signings Thibault Klidje and Josh Mulligan secured the quarter-final showdown. Partick Thistle v Celtic Sunday afternoon sees the League Cup champions visit Partick Thistle. The Firhill side is the only non-Premiership team remaining in the competition. Goals from Dan O’Reilly and Tony Watt saw The Jags defeat Ayr United in the previous round, after 4 wins and 11 goals scored in Group B. Manager Mark Wilson spent 6 years at Celtic, making 98 appearances for the Glasgow giants. They have recovered well from an opening day drubbing at McDiarmid Park, currently sitting 3rd in the Scottish Championship. Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic are perched at the top of the Scottish Premiership, and defeated Premiership newbies Falkirk 4-1 in the last round. Despite their league position, unrest remains amongst the Celtic fanbase following a subdued transfer window and a Champions League qualifying exit. They have dominated the League Cup in recent years, winning 7 of the last 9 finals, including a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Rangers last December.

September 19, 2025

Reviewing Each Scottish Premiership Club’s Transfer Business

A summer of change across the Scottish Premiership with five new managers in the door across the division, a summer of wheeling and dealing ensued as clubs looked to shape their squads. We review the business of each club and unpack the winners and losers of the window. Aberdeen – 6/10 Fresh on the back of an impressive Scottish Cup win, Aberdeen’s main priority was to strengthen the side to be capable of competing on all four fronts, as they secured a place in European Football. Jimmy Thelin looked to the Scandinavian market, bringing in Krtjan Mar Kjartansson and Kenan Bilalovic. Alfie Dorrington returned for a season-long loan from Tottenham to bolster the backline, while Kusini Yengi was brought into the club for attacking options. Aberdeen’s window was heavily focused on the forward areas. They sold cup final hero Shayden Morris as well as the club’s talisman, Pape Gueye, which weakened the squad. Their deadline day was the most successful, bringing in Kevin Nisbet and exciting winger Jesper Karlsson. A mixed window for the Dons, as they have brought in a lot of youthful talent, while losing two key players. The addition of Karlsson saved their window from being lacklustre. Celtic – 3/10 Going into the summer as Champions, it was clear to see Celtic needed attacking reinforcements. Buoyed by the return of Kieran Tierney, it looked like it was going to be an exciting window for the Hoops. Nicolas Kuhn left the club to join Italian side Como, whilst fringe players Palma and Tillio departed alongside him to Poland and Austria. Having sold Kyogo Furahashi in January, a new striker was top of the shopping list; however, this failed to come to fruition. Benjamin Nygren, Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Sebastian Toukneti look to have bolstered Celtic out wide; however, their lack of a number nine is an issue. Callum Osmand and Shin Yamada look to be project players, whilst Adam Idah has been sold to Swansea. Kelechi Iheanacho has since been brought in; however, this is outside the window, so it doesn’t count towards their rating. All in all, a poor window for Celtic, where they leave it weaker than when they entered. Dundee – 5/10 Tony Docherty replaced by Steven Pressley as a summer of change engulfed the Dens Park Side. Losing key players Josh Mulligan, Lyall Cameron and Mo Sylla, it was an important first window for Pressley. Yan Dhanda is their signing of the summer as he looks to rediscover his Ross County form. Paul Digby and Drey Wright look to be a good bit of business. However, it has been a summer of unknown at Dundee. There are a lot of question marks over their signings, with youthful players sprinkled in alongside experienced ones. Dundee United – 6/10 European Football secured Jim Goodwin set off to strengthen his squad for the European qualifiers, having lost a large number of players. It was an interesting window from the Tanadice side, with a lot of unknowns from across Europe joining the club. Zac Sapsford and Ivan Dolcek look to be the finds for the club, looking very impressive early on. The return of Liverpool loanee Luca Stephenson also boosted Jim Goodwin. There are many unknowns surrounding Dundee United’s transfer window, including the signings of Lucie Lovu, Bert Esselink, and Dario Naamo, to name a few. The Tangerines have expanded their presence in the European market by bringing in ten players from across the continent. The only issue with Jim Goodwin’s business is the number of loans, as they are in key areas of the pitch, although some do have the option to buy. Falkirk – 4/10 Falkirk, after a long hiatus, returned to the top flight of Scottish football. Their window, however, does not exactly scream we are here to stay. Scott Bain was the marquee signing joining from Celtic following the expiry of his contract. Brian Graham was also brought in; his experience is sure to help the Bairns. Four loan deals Falkirk look set to repay the faith to the players who helped them reach the Premiership. However, it’s been a poor window in which they haven’t strengthened enough to maintain Premiership status. Hearts – 8/10 Fresh from the investment of Tony Bloom and the addition of Jamestown Analytics, Hearts have had one of the best windows in the league. Alexandros Kyziridis and Claudio Braga have added an exciting option on the wing, with the latter enjoying a great start to life at Tyencastle. Elton Kabangu made his move permanent after spending the latter end of last season on loan. Whilst the club shelled out a club record fee to bring in exciting young midfielder Ageu from Portuguese side Santa Clara. Stuart Findlay was brought in as a favourite of Derek McInnes to tighten up the backline. Hearts also made a healthy profit from the sale of James Penrice, a man they paid nothing for the previous summer. It has been an exciting window for Hearts, the only downside being that their squad does look slightly bulky, as they have failed to ship out some of the deadwood. The likes of Kenneth Vargas remain at the club despite not being in the plans. Hibernian – 9/10 Hibs, for me, have had the best summer in the Scottish Premiership. Jamie McGrath and Josh Mulligan joined the Leith side on free transfers following the expiration of their contracts elsewhere. The Easter Road side also shelled out a reported one million pounds for striker Thiabult Klidje. Grant Hanley, a seasoned professional, made the move to Scotland after spending the majority of his career in the south. He adds stability to the backline, which, at times last season, looked shaky. Going out the door was Dylan Vente, who left the club after failing to impress in his time in the capital. Whilst Moriah-Welsh and Ekpiteta left to join clubs down south. Excellent business from the Leith side, as their new signings have fitted in seamlessly, and they look to have really strengthened their side

September 3, 2025

Scottish Teams Find Out Their Fate In European Draws

Rangers, Celtic and Aberdeen today all found out their opponents for the league phases of the Europa League and the Europa Conference League. Rangers and Celtic were in pots 1 and 2 of the Europa League draw respectively, whilst Aberdeen found themselves in pot 4 of the Conference League draw following their drop down to the competition last night. The pot 1 part of the draw arguably could not have provided Rangers and Celtic with tougher opponents, with both sides hosting Italian giants AS Roma who are the highest ranked side in the competition as per coefficient. Rangers also have to travel to Portugal to take on 2011 winners FC Porto, the second highest ranked side, whilst Celtic travel to De Kuip to take on Eredivisie giants Feyenoord, who they defeated under Arne Slot in 2023 to end a ten-year Champions League hoodoo. In pot 2, both sides have also been pitted against the 2011 runner ups, Portuguese outfit SC Braga, another side that will be flying in to Glasgow on two separate occasions. Celtic’s away tie from this pot sees them travel to Serbia as they were drawn away to the intimidating atmosphere of the Rajko Mitic Stadium, home of Crvena Zvezda, and Rangers also make the journey to Eastern Europe, as they will play Ferencvaros of Hungary’s capital, Budapest. Pot 3 again sees one side fare up against both of the Glasgow giants in Sturm Graz, however unlike AS Roma and SC Braga, they will only need to make their way to the East End of Glasgow rather than the Southside as well, as they have been drawn away to Celtic and at home to Rangers. Rangers’ home tie of this pot sees them host Ludogerets of Bulgaria, who have won their own top flight 14 times on the trot, whilst Danish side FC Midtjylland host another green and white Scottish club, after they knocked Hibernian out late in extra time in the qualifiers to help themselves reach this stage of the competition. In pot 4, Rangers host Belgian side Genk and travel north to face Brann of Norway, who last faced Scottish opposition last season in the form of St. Mirren in Conference League qualifying. Celtic’s draw was concluded with a visit from Dutch side FC Utrecht, where infamous former Hoops goalkeeper Vasilias Barkas currently plies his trade, and they will also make the journey to Northern Italy to take on FC Bologna, captained by Scotland international Lewis Ferguson. As for Ferguson’s former side, Aberdeen, their 6 Conference League opponents were discovered following the Europa League draw. The Dons host Ukrainian side, and European regulars Shakhtar Donetsk from pot 1, and will also see visits from Ligue 1 opposition Strasbourg and Armenian side Noah, who travelled to the UK last season to play Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the last term’s Conference League, losing 8-0 to the eventual competition winners. There are some enjoyable away days on the cards for the Red Army, as they make the trip to the capital of Czechia to play Sparta Prague. They can also look forward to the slightly warmer climates of Greece’s capital Athens when their side play AEK, and another trip slightly more East to Cyprus, as they face AEK Larnaca, who dumped out a Legia Warsaw side that narrowly beat Hibs last night to deny Scotland having four Scottish sides in European group phase competition.

August 29, 2025

Dons crash, burn and drop into Conference League in Bucharest

FCSB 3 Aberdeen 0 (FCSB win 5-2 on aggregate) Aberdeen have been consigned to UEFA Europa Conference League football this season as they went down to Romanian side FCSB in the Europa League Playoff round. The Dons return to group phase football for the first time since 2023, where they also found themselves in European football’s third tier competition, in a campaign which produces memorable wins over Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt but ultimately no qualification for the latter stages. Jimmy Thelin’s side did well to keep the tie alive last week at Pittodrie, having gone down 2-0 in the second half of the first leg, yet they would get no better opportunity to go ahead for the first time in the tie in the opening minutes of the game, when striker Ester Sokler, who scored a 90th minute equaliser last week, trickled a rebounded effort into the hands of goalkeeper Stefan Tarnovanu who gracefully collected the ball into his hands from six yards out. Aberdeen more than went toe to toe with the Romanian hosts for large parts of the first half, with Ante Palaversa firing a half volley over the bar and summer recruit Adil Aouchiche looking threatening down the left hand side at one stage, yet in equal measure they also got out of jail with Dimitar Mitov rushing to clear a Nicky Devlin backpass, and FCSB failing to make Graeme Shinnie pay after the Dons captain was lackadaisical in possession. With just five minutes to go until half time and Aberdeen looking to go into the break with the tie still level, disaster struck in the most frustrating and cruelest of fashions. David Miculescu was sent through and beat the already booked Alexander Jensen to the through ball, falling to the ground and the ball hitting the arm of the Dane. The referee waved play on, but VAR intervened and perhaps unfairly, the referee pointed to the spot and gave Jensen his marching orders, before Darius Olaru tucked away the penalty to give the hosts the lead. With the man advantage, the second half was all FCSB and they quickly made their dominance count. Adrian Sut picked up the ball from outside the area, and he ferociously struck the ball to fire it passed the Bulgarian in the Aberdeen net to double his side’s advantage who looked to be in a rush to make the UEFA Europa League. Just on the hour mark, Aberdeen fans would have been forgiven if they started to watch the game from behind their couches, when Olaru netted his second of the evening with big thanks to a deflection. Fans across Scotland’s minds at this stage would have been fearing the worst for Aberdeen, given what happened to Rangers in their away tie last night, but the Reds stood firm to keep the scoreline at a minimum. It was degree of inevitability that the Dons would end up in the Conference League and so it proved to be in the end, with FCSB taking the win overall. FCSB: Tarnovanu 6, Cretu 7, Ngezana 7, Popescu 7 (Miculescu 3), Radunovic 6, Lixandru 6, Șut 8 (Chriches 2), Miculescu 6, Olaru 9 (Alhassan 5), Tanase 7 (Politic 3), Birligea 6 (Albec 2) Aberdeen: Mitov 4, Devlin 5, Milne 5, Knoester 4, Jensen 2, Palaversa 6 (Yengi 3), Aouchiche 6, Shinnie 5, Keskinen 6 (Milanovic 3), Polvara 5 (Nilsen 4), Sokler 4 (Clarkson 5)

August 28, 2025

Sokler Header Leaves European Play-off in the Balance for Aberdeen

Aberdeen 2 – 2 FCSB Polvara (61′) Sokler (89′) Birligea (32′) Olaru (46′) Aberdeen came from 2-0 down to draw their Europa League first leg against the 10 men of FCSB. Aberdeen enjoyed a comfortable League Cup Victory against Morton on Saturday, and started brightly. Alexander Jensen found space on the right within the opening minutes, but his cross was flicked away before reaching Kusini Yengi in the box. Nicolas Milanovic and Adil Aouchiche have settled well at Pittodrie and linked well on the edge of the box. Milanovic’s resultant strike was blocked, a common theme for Aberdeen’s attacking efforts. For the first 25 minutes, Aberdeen dominated possession and territory, but struggled to translate their control into clear chances. Despite their domestic pedigree, FCSB seemed content to absorb pressure, slowing the game down at every opportunity. Their patience paid off in the 32nd minute when they scored against the run of play. Goalkeeper Stefan Tarnovanu’s long ball found David Miculescu, who released the star man, Daniel Birligea. The forward finished coolly past goalkeeper Dimitar Mitov, giving the visitors a surprising lead. The goal was a blow to Jimmy Thelin’s squad after an encouraging start. The home crowd’s frustrations were further compounded by FCSB’s decision to celebrate as a team rather than quickly returning to the centre circle. Just as FCSB looked to grow into the game, Juri Cisotti was shown a straight red card for a rash challenge on Milanovic. While the tackle was certainly worthy of a booking, the decision felt harsh, reducing the Romanian side to ten men. Aberdeen attempted to capitalise on their numerical advantage, but continued to lack a cutting edge. Palaversa had a golden opportunity after latching onto a loose ball in the box, but his low shot was saved comfortably. On the left, Topi Keskinen, who had a quiet first half, finally found space to maraud forward, but his cross couldn’t find a teammate. The first half ended with a familiar story for the Dons – plenty of effort but no reward. Things went from bad to worse just seconds into the 2nd half. Miscommunication from Gavin Molloy and Mats Knoester allowed Birligea space to bear down on goal. FCSB’s number 9 turned from scorer to provider, sliding the ball across the goal for Darius Olaru to tap home. Deflation for Aberdeen, who had made three positive changes at halftime. Bucharest almost added to their lead moments later, but Mitov was alert to tip Miculescu’s fierce volley past the post. The Romanians may have been a man down, but they relished the prospect of enduring 45 minutes with a man spare. Aberdeen regained their composure and forced themselves back into the game after 61 minutes. Substitute Dante Polvara spun in the box and unleashed a powerful strike off the post and past Tarnovanu. The introduction of Polvara and Graeme Shinnie injected energy into the home side’s play. Polvara delivered a teasing cross for Ester Sokler moments later, who directed his header past the left-hand post. Sokler had another opening on 72 minutes, Palaversa’s flick on dropped to the Slovenian in the box, but his strike lacked conviction and trickled into the goalkeeper’s grasp. Aberdeen carved out another opening as the game entered the final five minutes. Palaversa’s incisive pass to Jensen was cut back for Keskinen, the Finnish winger’ strike was blocked by the solid Romanian backline. The home side levelled the tie in the 88th minute, Keskinen’s outswinging cross was met by the substitute striker, who made no mistake to head past Tarnovanu. The equaliser warranted Aberdeen’s persistent pressure in the 2nd half, grinding down a persistent and sturdy defence. While they could not force home the winning goal, a spirited comeback leaves the tie in the balance as Aberdeen head to Bucharest next Thursday. Aberdeen: Mitov, Jensen, Dorrington (Knoester 46’) Milne, Molloy (Shinnie 59’), Palaversa, Heltne Nilsen (Clarkston 46’), Milanovic (Polvara 58’), Aouchiche, Keskinen, Yengi (Sokler 46’) Bookings: Milanovic 22’ Palaversa 75’ FCSB: Tarnovanu, Cretu, Graovac, M Popescu, Pantea, Sut (Lixandru 72’), Chiriches (Edjouma 46’), Miculescu, F Tanase (Olaru 46’), Cisotti, Birligea. Bookings: Tanase 12’ Crete 39’ Cisotti (Sent Off 38’)

August 21, 2025

SPFL Weekly – Matchday 2: Five Talking Points

Hearts served up a pulsating finale at Tannadice, while Rangers faltered with an unchanged side at home to Dundee. Elsewhere, concerns mounted for the goalless Aberdeen and St Mirren, Livingston claimed promotion bragging rights, and Kilmarnock fought back to frustrate Hibs. While BBC Sportscene marked its 50th birthday with a special edition on Saturday — and a welcome return for presenter Dougie Donnelly — they brought the weekend’s action to the small screen. But while they show it, here’s our take on the big talking points from Matchday 2 of the 2025/26 SPFL season. Set-Piece Heaven: Findlay and Grant Lead the Way Stuart Findlay. Take a bow. Fresh from scoring the second against Aberdeen last week, he delivered again. This time, in dramatic fashion, heading a last-minute winner at Tannadice to keep Hearts top. Not to mention his part in the other goals, he won the penalty for Lawrence Shankland and nodded in the equaliser too. His heroics also spared Zander Clark’s blushes after mistakes in both Dundee United goals, prompting the ‘keeper to sprint the length of the pitch at full-time to celebrate with his saviour. Cheers, Stu. The Jambos began with Alan Forrest at right wing-back but struggled to make inroads down that side — a sharp contrast to the hosts’ stand-in wing-back, Ivan Dolček, who struck twice. Most of Hearts’ threat came down the left, where Harry Milne thrived in the final third, linking superbly with the attack. James Penrice, who? It will concern Dundee United that all three goals they conceded came from set pieces, with former staff member Ross Grant — now Hearts’ set-piece coach — returning to haunt them. Squad depth at wing-back is also an issue, mirroring Hearts’ problems in that area, though Dolček impressed in his stint on the right. Derek McInnes again showed his tactical acumen, reshaping his side at half-time to address their problems on the right. Moving Michael Steinwinder to right-back and Alexandros Kyziridis to right midfield helped nullify the threat of Dolček. However, a move for a new right-back and a goalkeeper after Clark’s recent woes could also be on the cards. United is still in the early stages of rebuilding after a busy summer. Still, signs of promise are already there with Dolček and marquee signing Amar Fateh returning from injury. Their immediate focus is on Europe, with a credible away result against Rapid Vienna setting up a big night at Tannadice. Victory would move them closer to the group stage and the potential £5m windfall it brings. With momentum building over the past two years, Jim Goodwin is now discussing a new contract. Rejoice! As for Hearts, Tony Bloom’s bold prediction of a title challenge within the next decade might be closer than many think… Dee-Light at Ibrox as Dundee Rattle Rangers For the first time in 36 years, Rangers have opened a league season without a win in either of their first two games, and Russell Martin is still waiting for his first Premiership victory as head coach. Russell Martin admitted last week his side didn’t deserve a point — and, arguably, they didn’t here either, despite James Tavernier’s late penalty salvaging one. Dundee might have been cruelly denied had Cyriel Dessers’ stoppage-time strike stood, but the offside flag spared them. The Glasgow side fielded an unchanged eleven from their resounding 3-0 win midweek against Viktoria Plzeň. With hindsight, Martin should have made changes, as his team lacked intensity. Rangers are a work in progress, with new owners, a new boss, new signings, and a few out. Yet, in Glasgow, patience is in short supply, and the fans are already restless. This was evident with the booing throughout the match, particularly of second-half substitutions Nico Raskin and Kieran Dowell. Despite Rangers’ lethargy, Dundee deserves full credit for exploiting it. Energetic and brave, they were unrecognisable from their limp League Cup displays. Steven Pressley geed up his team for this tie, particularly Luke Graham’s standout defensive performance. And special mention goes to Ryan Astley, whose terrific second-half header gave Dundee the lead and had them on the brink of a marquee win for Pressley, if not for Captain Tav’s intervention from the penalty spot. Nasser Djiga’s afternoon also ended on a sour note, the defender seeing red for bringing down Fin Robertson as the last man just minutes after Astley’s opener. No appealing that one. Dons & Buddies Draw Blanks Aberdeen and St Mirren have failed to score in their opening two games of the season, though each has a different take on their final-third troubles. The Saints remain confident the goals will come and are only likely to enter the market if the price is right (think free transfers and loans). Context matters, having already travelled to Celtic Park and faced a rejuvenated Motherwell. They looked threatening in spells but perhaps missing pace in attack, a Toyosi Olusanya-type figure since his move to the USA in April. Aberdeen, meanwhile, have also endured a tough start, opening away to ‘title-chasing’ Hearts and last season’s champions Celtic. But they have looked worryingly toothless, with their only real threat to Kasper Schmeichel a long-range strike from Adil Aouchiche and a miscommunication between Shin Yamada and the veteran keeper. Their summer signing, Yusini Yengi, has endured a difficult start. He squandered a gilt-edged chance at Tynecastle and was underwhelming against the Hoops’ defence. At times on Sunday, he looked an isolated figure before being hooked on 55 minutes. Both captain Nicky Devlin and manager Jimmy Thelin have backed the Australian to come good, insisting he needs time and more attacking support from those around him. Yengi’s woes haven’t stopped the Pittodrie side from entering the market. They have been linked with Swedish winger Kenan Bilalovic for a six-figure fee and young AC Milan striker Marko Lazetic on a free transfer, albeit with a hefty sell-on clause attached. With Europa League qualifiers looming and Friday’s European signing deadline fast approaching, Aberdeen’s need for firepower is urgent. Lions Roar Again

August 12, 2025

SPFL Weekly – Matchday 1: Five Talking Points

Russell Martin blows his top after a lacklustre showing, Luke McCowan spares blunt Celtic with late heroics, and Derek McInnes’ Jambos breezed into pole position for title challenge. Kieron Bowie was the Starman at Den’s Park, and it was a level start on opening day for promoted sides. We’re back! Here’s our round-up of the big talking points from Matchday 1 in the 2025/26 SPFL season. Martin Fires Warning Shot The post-match talk to the press is rarely more explosive than the game. Yet the new man in the dugout, Russell Martin, let rip in his Sky Sports interview after their opening SPFL game at Fir Park, criticising the mentality of his squad. He accused some of his Teddy Bears of ‘reverting to type’ and needing to ‘drop their egos’. An impressive second-half performance from Motherwell saw Emmanuel Longelo’s powerful strike cancel out James Tavernier’s first-half header in the 1-1 draw. The Lanarkshire side could have won, too, with Jack Butland denying Tom Sparrow, who scored their winner at Ibrox in March, in the game’s dying moments. Martin admitted that his ex-Norwich teammate’s side, Jens Berthel Askou, who joined Motherwell in the summer as Head Coach, was ‘braver’ and more ‘aggressive’ than his side and was lucky to get a point. Their supporters booed off the Glasgow side at full-time, echoing déjà vu from last season. The Brighton man, who played for Rangers on loan in 2018, delivered similar criticism in context to Barry Ferguson’s comments last season. Although Martin said it was ‘not an attack on anyone personally’ ahead of tonight’s Champions League qualifier against Viktoria Plzen at Ibrox, he will need to be careful not to alienate his squad. They overcame Panathinaikos over two legs in the previous round of European qualifiers. However, the less-than-convincing performances and players playing out of position have baffled supporters. He said some players must ‘drop their ego’, but perhaps he should be the one to compromise on his tactics and do so willingly if he wants to succeed in Glasgow. He told Sky Sports: “We need to work out who really wants to be all in and who doesn’t.” Martin has been busy in the transfer window, with the recent arrival of Finnish international Oliver Antman, who arrives from Go Ahead Eagles in a £4m deal, pushing the total to nine signings. The gaffer will hope Antman doesn’t shrink under pressure but grows into a giant in attack. Loyal servant and club captain James Tavernier, who has been at the club for ten years, has been an ever-present in this so-called egotistical environment. Still, question marks remain about his ability to instil a positive culture. Maybe Martin, Tavernier, fresh faces, and player exits can finally push the club in a new direction. Rodgers Needs Firepower After McCowan Bailout Luke McCowan saved Celtic’s blushes with a deflected strike in the last ten minutes of the game against a stubborn St Mirren side at Celtic Park. It was hard to say what was less surprising: Stephen Robinson’s men, unbeaten in last season’s top-six split and fresh off a third consecutive top-half finish, proving they are no pushovers, or McCowan coming off the bench and positively changing the game for the Hoops. The Bhoys started with a party. A rousing rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone rang out, Kris Boyd pleading for Scott Brown to keep talking on Sky Sports so he doesn’t have to hear it. Lisbon Lion John Clark, who passed away in the summer, had a tifo unveiled in his memory. And the club welcomed back 90s legend Paul McStay before he unfurled the league champions’ flag at Celtic Park. Unfortunately, that’s where the shindig faded. The home side struck the woodwork four times and saw a Callum McGregor second-half strike correctly ruled out for handball. It wasn’t until McCowan’s 12-minute cameo that the game came to life. The 27-year-old brought energy and the decisive flourish that Benjamin Nygren and the front three of Yang, Adam Idah, and Daezen Maeda lacked. He had a similar role last year, coming on as a substitute 17 times for Celtic in the league, scoring six goals and assisting seven times for his boyhood club. The narrow 1–0 win means the reigning champions have now won their opening league fixture in 17 of the last 18 seasons. It has been a successful period for the club, but Brendan Rodgers will only continue at Celtic beyond his contract, which expires at the end of the season, if the club continues to develop on and off the park. Rodgers wants attacking reinforcements, but Yang is less than convincing. James Forrest is ageing, and the injured Jota is not expected to return until the new year. Adam Idah continues to blow cold, and Jonjoe Kenny and new signing Shin Yamada are both untested in the league. On BBC’s Sportscene, ex-Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew says the club needs two wingers and a striker, which is a fair assessment based on the manager’s recent comments. Hearts Weather the Wind and Bloom into Title Contenders The Jambos were back in league action after cruising in their League Cup campaign the past few weeks. Even Storm Floris caused chaos across Edinburgh, with Fringe shows cancelled, train services halted, and even the Military Tattoo called off. Still, it couldn’t disrupt Derek McInnes’ men with a 2-0 win over Aberdeen. They had no sympathy for the 650 Aberdeen fans attempting the journey south, or for Dons’ captain Graeme Shinnie, who put the ball into the back of his net in the early stages of the game from a Harry Milne cross. Jambos’ summer signing Stuart Findlay finished the scoring with a brave header past an onrushing Dimitar Mitov. Lawrence Shankland thought he had doubled their advantage in the first half with a wonder strike, which was disallowed for offside in the build-up. Managing his first league game for Hearts against a former club, Derek McInnes told Sky Sports afterwards that “we gave everything.” They will

August 5, 2025

Aberdeen Freeze in Tynecastle Cauldron as Hearts Top Table With Victory

There were chants of ‘we shall not be moved’ at Tynecastle Park as hosts Hearts moved up to first place in the table, as the Jambos faithful created a raucous atmosphere as they watched their side defeat Scottish Cup holders Aberdeen 2-0. Both sides were able to round off the first week of Premiership action, amid fears of a potential postponement due to an amber level weather warning of severe wind. Hearts came into this one the sharpest of the two sides, having played four Premier Sports Cup matches prior to this, winning all four, and scoring four in each. Not to mention defeating Premier League opposition in Sunderland 3-0 also, in a testimonial for club legend Craig Gordon. Aberdeen were away from in the opening Monday night fixture for the second consecutive season after they beat St Johnstone 2-1 this time last year, but the side from the North East were unable to replicate the same kind of result which kickstarted their memorable unbeaten run at the start of last season. Hearts would take the lead in the 11th minute, courtesy of Aberdeen captain Graeme Shinnie, who had been receiving the pantomime villain treatment from the home support up until this point. A Harry Milne cross hit off the Dons’ skipper last before hitting the net, which all started from Claudio Braga driving down the right hand side to make it all happen, and when his cross led to a Cammy Devlin strike deflecting out to Milne, he zipped a ball across to help put the Maroon side ahead. Milne almost doubled the lead three minutes later, when his strike surprised all of Tynecastle when it hit the bar. Aberdeen would hit the woodwork themselves just a minute later, when Nicolas Milanovic’s cross hit off the leg of Kusini Yengi and tumbled onto the post left of Zander Clark. Hearts thought they had doubled their lead just on the stroke of half time, this time through their captain, Lawrence Shankland, who found the top left corner with a fantastic curling strike outside the box. However, after a lengthy VAR check, the goal was ruled out for an offside in the build up, giving the Gorgie side a one goal advantage to defend going into the second period. There was a clear momentum shift to be seen from the beginning of the second half, which seen Aberdeen create many opportunities and enjoy large spells of possession in the Hearts half. No opportunity came better than Kusini Yengi’s five minutes after the restart, with the Australian getting onto the end of a deep curling Leighton Clarkson free kick from around six yards out. His effort, however, bounced wide of the goal on what was the striker’s competitive debut for the Dons. Hearts weathered a red coloured storm for the first two thirds of the second half, before coming alive again and doubling their advantage. Harry Milne lifts a free kick in from a narrow position which was failed to be cleared by Aberdeen’s Mats Knoester, allowing Scotland international Stuart Findlay to capitalise and beat Mitov in the Aberdeen net in the air to give Hearts a two goal cushion and net his second of the season already. There was another worryingly long VAR check for a potential offside put hearts in mouths around Tynecastle, but groans quickly turned into cheers of delight when referee Nick Walsh pointed to the centre circle. This result continues Derek McInnes’ 100% record as Hearts manager following his appointment at the end of last season, as his side look to make it ten competitive victories in a row when they travel to Tannadice to face Dundee United this Sunday afternoon. For Jimmy Thelin and his men, they face the easy task of hosting the champions Celtic at Pittodrie in the Sunday lunchtime fixture, with Brendan Rodgers’ side looking to avenge their Scottish Cup Final loss and make it two wins out of two for the campaign. Hearts: Clark, Kent (Steinweinder, 70′), Hackett, Shankland (Magnusson, 90′), Braga (Wilson, 71′), Borchgrevnik (Forrest, 70′), Devlin, Spittal (Kyziridis, 70′) , Milne, Findlay (Goal, 73′), McEntee Bookings: Kent (19′), Hackett (54′), Devlin (61′) Aberdeen: Mitov, Shinnie (OG, 11′, Devlin 81′), Knoester, Nilsen (Morris, 69′), Aouchiche, Yengi (Boyd, 62′) Clarkson, Milanovic (Sokler, 81′) , Milne, Jensen, Keskinen (Polvara, 62′) Bookings: Aouchiche (60′), Milanovic (78′)

August 5, 2025