Dundee United Archives

Kilmarnock Progress to League Cup Quarters Against Injury-Stricken Dundee United

Kilmarnock 2-1 Dundee United Dackers (6′) Lyons (69′) Stirton (25′) A goal in each half was enough for Kilmarnock to beat Dundee United in the Premier Sports Cup 2nd Round. Kilmarnock got off to the best possible start after six minutes. Marcus Dackers latched on to a through ball and coolly dispatched past Yevhen Kucherenko to open the scoring. Dundee United endured an agonising penalty shootout defeat to Rapid Vienna in the Conference League 3rd round three days ago. Jim Goodwin’s side have struggled with persistent injuries, and this continued with Owen Stirton replacing Max Watters after just 17 minutes. Stirten proved to be a worthy substitute soon after, he found space and finished past Max Stryjek in the Kilmarnock goal to equalise for the away side. Stuart Kettlewell’s team delivered the decisive blow in the 68th minute. Brad Lyons connected with Lewis Mayo’s knockdown to volley under Kuckerenko and restore his side’s lead. Kilmarnock’s victory means they will welcome St Mirren to BBSP Rugby Park in the quarter final. The game is scheduled to take place on the weekend of September 20th-21st. Dundee United return to league action in two weeks’ time, making the short journey to Dens Park for the opening Dundee derby of the season. Kilmarnock: Stryjek, Brandon, Mayo, Schilte-Brown, Deas, Brannan, Polworth, Lyons, Watson, Daniels, Dackers Dundee United: Kucherenko, Esselink, Iovu, Sevelj, Ferry, Sibbald, Fatah, Dolcek, Stephenson, Keresztes, Watters

August 17, 2025

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.”

August 13, 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

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

August 10, 2025

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:

August 7, 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

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’

August 3, 2025

Our Writers Predict the 2025/26 Scottish Premiership

The William Hill Premiership is looming, with the opening weekend starting with Killie hosting the newly promoted side of Livingston on Saturday and concluding with the blockbuster clash on Monday when Aberdeen visit Hearts. Fresh optimism, big questions and plenty of intrigue await. Will Celtic continue their domestic dominance? Can Hearts, Hibs, or Aberdeen close the Old Firm gap? And who’s facing a scrap at the bottom? The transfer window is still open, and predictions may hinge on late window shenanigans. However, our team of journalists has examined all 12 clubs and offered their early predictions for this season. Aberdeen Callum Hart – 4th I’m tipping them to finish 4th. Cameron Caldwell – 7th Guaranteed European football until January will be a double-edged sword for Jimmy Thelin’s squad. Balancing these demands with the busy domestic calendar will be a struggle. Jack Cranmer – 5th Jimmy Thelin pulled off a shock by guiding Aberdeen to Scottish Cup glory and European group stage qualification. However, that European run could become a burden. The squad is decent, but its depth is questionable. Thursday-Sunday football has hurt clubs like Hearts, and Aberdeen may suffer similarly. Recruitment has been shrewd, but whether it’s enough to maintain a top-four challenge remains to be seen. Mack Kelly – 5th They have had a lot of activity in the transfer window this season, and Thelin is now properly putting his stamp on the squad. I think European football this season will act as a derailer for the Dons and hold them back in the table. That said, I can see the Reds going on a run in the Conference League. Michael Shuel – 5th The Dons have been busy in the transfer market, but losing Jamie McGrath on a free is a blow. Hopefully, their recruits can prove effective. The extension of Alfie Dorrington’s loan is a good move, as he will continue to develop into a top defender. They hope to continue last season’s success, which saw them pick up silverware. Ryan Niven – 5th Inconsistent last season, and with the addition of European football, I feel the Pittodrie club will struggle. Scott Bradley – 5th Despite the historic Scottish Cup win against Celtic last season, we can’t forget the Dons had a poor second half of the season, only managing to win five of their last 26 league games. The Dandies played in Europe under former boss Barry Robson, and they struggled to cope with that Thursday-to-Sunday schedule; the same could happen this season. Celtic Callum Hart – 1st Celtic still seems to be the better team between them and the Rangers; however, I think the gap will be closer this year than last. Cameron Caldwell – 1st While there’s still work to do in the transfer market, Celtic’s established core should be consistent enough to secure their fifth consecutive Scottish Premiership title. Jack Cranmer – 2nd Celtic remain favourites, but a storm may be brewing. Brendan Rodgers’ recent comments hint at dissatisfaction with the club’s backing during the summer window. Nicolas Kühn’s departure is a blow, and while Benjamin Nygren appears a capable replacement, it’s hard to argue he’s an upgrade on an in-form Kühn. If he stays fit, Kieran Tierney will be an improvement on Greg Taylor, but that’s a big ‘if’ across a 50+ game season. Up front, serious concerns remain: Jota won’t be fully fit until late in the campaign, Adam Idah is still unconvincing, Kyogo Furuhashi still hasn’t been truly replaced, and the new options lack the quality Celtic have had in recent years. Rodgers has a track record of third-season stagnation, and if he’s not backed, he could walk. If that happens, chaos could open the door to a Rangers resurgence. Mack Kelly – 1st It will be much tighter at the top end of the table this season, but I think the squad’s quality and experience will deliver the Celtics’ fifth consecutive title by no more than six points. Michael Shuel – 1st With the Rangers experiencing a tactical revolution (or mess, as some could call it) and the mastermind Russell Martin joining, the Celtics should be scared. Not really. It will take time for Rangers to gel, and the Hoops have too much quality in all areas of their squad. Could they do with more wingers now? Sure. But that’ll come. Are there question marks around Adam Idah? Look, he will still get 15-20 goals this season. If that’s what you call a flop (even at a staggering £9m), then so be it. Ryan Niven – 1st With the Rangers being rebuilt, Celtic will bring home another title. However, their lack of transfer business so far makes me believe it’ll be a closer title race than last season. Scott Bradley – 2nd Despite winning a double last season, Brendan Rodgers’ men have dropped in form and standards over the last few months. There doesn’t seem to be a real buzz and excitement surrounding the Scottish champions at this moment in time, and the lack of transfer business is a concern, especially amongst the Celtic faithful. I believe this will be Rodgers’ last season, and if he loses the first Old Firm game at Ibrox, the alarm bells will start ringing. Dundee Callum Hart – 12th After Dundee’s poor start to the campaign, I think it’ll continue into the league season. Cameron Caldwell – 12th Steven Pressley hasn’t been a manager since 2019. This lack of recent experience could prove problematic for a Dundee team that only narrowly avoided relegation last year. Jack Cranmer – 12th I don’t want to be too harsh on Steven Pressley; he’s done his homework at Brentford, but alarm bells are already ringing. Losses to Airdrieonians and Alloa in the League Cup, plus a narrow win over Lowland League Bonnyrigg Rose, don’t inspire confidence. Their recruitment, mainly from English lower leagues and loans from Brentford youth, looks risky. Pressley’s man-management has also been questioned, and losing Josh Mulligan and Lyall Cameron won’t help. If results don’t pick up soon, the

August 2, 2025

Solid starts in Europe for Dundee United and Hibernian

Dundee United and Hibernian kick started their European campaigns as United defeated Una Strassen 1-0 in their Europa Conference second qualifier and the Hibees got an important 1-1 draw away from home against FC Midtylland in their Europa League second qualifier. FC Midtylland 1-1 Hibernian David Gray’s men had a dream start in Denmark all thanks Jamie McGrath opening the scoring as his free-kick found it’s way into the net from the wide left of the pitch. The Danish side struggled to get to grips at the start, but grew into the game and pulled back an equaliser at the 72nd minute as Aral Simsir slotted away a lovely free-kick. Gray spoke after the game about how proud he was of his side’s performance: “We spoke about deserving the opportunity for how well we played last season and what we achieved last season. “But you need to come to these places and believe you can get a result and I think the way we started the game, every player definitely did that. “We were on the front foot straight away. The first 20 minutes I thought we were excellent. “We had to defend, I thought that was excellent. So really proud of the effort from every single player. “But I’ve just been very quick to remind everyone that it’s only part one, that’s half time in the tie.” Dundee United 1-0 Una Strassen Jim Goodwin’s men played in front of 11,000 people at Tannadice as seven of the nine signings made by the Terrors started the game. New summer signing Zac Sapsford got his United career off to a flying start as his strike went into the bottom left hand corner at the 47th minute. Goodwin’s team were fairly in control and he believes that his side should be in a more comfortable position going into the second leg. He said after the game: “We’re pleased with the clean sheet and we scored a really good goal with a bit of quality and it was a wonderful strike. “I think there are certain elements we need to do better in. We turned over possession far too cheaply which led to counters but defensively we were very good. “There were certainly moments in the game where we need to improve. I thought when we did move the ball quickly and found pockets, we looked a threat but we’ve left at least a couple of goals out there. “Vicko Sevelj had a great chance but credit to the keeper who made a good save. “The disappointment is more the fact we didn’t do ourselves justice in the second half. Our possession on the ball, we didn’t move it quickly enough.“ We were too sloppy and we’ll try to improve those things. It’s still very early days for this group of players but there’s a lot to work on going into next week. “I don’t mean to sound doom and gloom, I’m just disappointed we didn’t make it more comfortable.”

July 25, 2025

European Adventures Begin for Scottish Trio

Rangers, Hibernian, and Dundee United kick off their European qualification campaigns this week. Rangers welcome Panathinaikos to Ibrox, Hibernian travel to Denmark to face FC Midtjylland, and United host Luxembourg’s UNA Strassen. Greek Test in Martin’s First Competitive Match Russell Martin’s appointment has split the Rangers fanbase, some welcome his free-flowing style whilst others question his pedigree in taking the Ibrox’s top job. Tuesday’s match against Greek side Panathinaikos promises to be a baptism of fire for the former Southampton manager. Panathinaikos mirrored Rangers’ domestic performance last season, securing a second-place finish. Their recent European adventures saw them participate in the UEFA Conference League, where they finished 13th in the group stage before a pulsating Round of 16 clash that saw them narrowly lose 5-4 on aggregate to Fiorentina. For the Ibrox faithful, this encounter with Panathinaikos may stir fond memories. Their last meeting, in the 2008 UEFA Cup, saw Nacho Novo net an 81st-minute equaliser to send Rangers through on away goals. This tie was pivotal in Rangers’ memorable run to the 2008 UEFA Cup final, ultimately ending in a 2-0 defeat to Zenit St Petersburg in Manchester. Victory for Rangers would promote them to the third round of Champions League qualification, where they will meet Czech side Viktoria Plzen or Switzerland’s Servette. Defeat for Martin’s side would present a challenging draw against Besiktas or Shakhtar Donetsk in the Europa League third qualifying round. Danish Giants Await Gray’s Hibernian David Gray was the interim manager for Hibs’ last European match – a Conference League clash against Aston Villa. This season, they face another stern test against Danish giants FC Midtjylland. FC Midtjylland narrowly missed out on their domestic title, finishing one point adrift of champions FC Copenhagen. Their prior visits to Scotland have yielded mixed results: a 7-3 aggregate defeat to Rangers in the Europa League qualifiers and a 3-2 aggregate victory over Celtic in the Champions League qualifiers. The first leg is scheduled for July 24th in Denmark, with the decisive second leg taking place in Leith on July 31st. Victory of Midtjylland would present another Scandinavian challenge for Hibs, taking on Norway’s Fredrikstad in the Europa League 3rd Qualifying Round. Defeat would relegate them to the UEFA Conference League 3rd Round, where they would face Ukraine’s FC Oleksandriya or Serbia’s FK Partizan. European Reward for Jim Goodwin’s Men Following an impressive 4th place finish on their return to the Scottish Premiership, Dundee United’s season preparations are in full swing. Draws with Arbroath, St Johnstone, and Oldham, with a trip to the Netherlands in between, they welcome Luxembourg’s UNA Strassen on Thursday evening. Their UEFA Conference League 2nd round qualifier is the Arabs’ first continental outing since their memorable (albeit forgettable) 7-1 aggregate defeat to AZ Alkmaar in 2022. Victory over Strassen will pit Goodwin’s team against Decic of Montenegro or Rapid Vienna of Austria.

July 22, 2025

Dundee United