Dundee United Archives - Page 2 of 5

Dundee Utd 2-1 Celtic: Sapsford Magic Heaps Further Pressure on Nancy

Dundee United 2-1 Celtic Keresztes (58′) Sapsford (61′) Maeda (13′) A second-half capitulation at Tannadice saw Celtic fall to a spirited Dundee United comeback, leaving Wilfried Nancy winless after four games in charge. The visitors posed a constant threat in a frantic first half, clearly eager to banish their Cup final demons and secure a first win for Wilfried Nancy. The pressure began in the 4th minute when Luke McCowan released Daizen Maeda down the right. Yang Hyun-Jun stretched to meet the winger’s low cross at the back post, but he couldn’t direct his effort on target. Callum McGregor scooped a clever ball into Maeda’s path moments later, only for Johnny Kenny to fire his lobbed attempt over the bar. Celtic’s persistence paid off in the 12th minute. After capitalising on sloppy play by the hosts, Auston Trusty fed Kenny in front of the United defence. The striker quickly released the electric Maeda on the left side of the area, and after rounding Bert Esselink, his left-footed strike found the bottom corner of Dave Richards’ goal. It was Maeda’s fourth goal in six league matches, and it rewarded Celtic’s blistering start. Unlike their agonising defeat to St Mirren on Sunday, Nancy’s side played here with total conviction. Jim Goodwin’s Dundee United are now winless in seven league matches, and struggled to match Celtic’s relentless tenacity. The hosts offered little early on, with Amar Fatah’s wayward strike from the edge of the box their only half-chance in the opening 20 minutes. Celtic nearly doubled their lead in the 23rd minute when Kenny raced clear of the United defence. However, his hesitation in front of the goal allowed Esselink to recover and clear the danger. United finally settled after the half-hour mark and nearly found an equaliser. A long throw-in fell to Esselink on the edge of the area, Max Watters redirected his scuffed shot, but the on-loan Barnsley striker’s touch trickled narrowly wide. The reprieve was short-lived, as Celtic sliced through the United defence again moments later. Maeda continued to haunt Goodwin’s side, latching onto a Hatate through ball and firing a low cross into the path of Kenny. It looked easier to score than miss, but the Irishman scuffed his effort wide. It was another major let-off for the hosts; Celtic should have been out of sight. In a complete reversal of the first half, it was Dundee United who flew out of the blocks. Zac Sapsford’s right-footed strike was blocked early on after Luca Stephenson capitalised on slack play from the Celtic midfield. Kasper Schmeichel was forced into action in the 50th minute, staying alert to deny Sapsford’s low drive after the ball broke to the Australian in a congested penalty area. However, the equaliser finally arrived seven minutes later. Ross Graham did well to keep Ferry’s cross alive at the back post, allowing Krisztian Keresztes to provide a clinical finish across Schmeichel and into the far corner. The roof blew off Tannadice on the hour mark thanks to a moment of individual brilliance. For the second time in minutes, Celtic failed to clear the danger at the back post, and Sapsford whipped a vicious right-footed strike beyond the outstretched grasp of Schmeichel. It was the Australians’ fifth goal of the season, and triggered a chorus of “sack the board” chants from the frustrated travelling support. The sheer intensity of Goodwin’s side appeared to have startled Celtic. The home side eventually retreated into a defensive shape, desperate to protect their slender advantage. Wilfried Nancy turned to his bench, handing a rare opportunity to Shin Yamada, who blazed wide of Dave Richards’ goal in the 75th minute. It was a golden chance for the Japanese striker, who should have carried the ball closer to Richards’ goal. Celtic’s best opportunity to level came in the 82nd minute. James Forrest flashed a teasing cross into the six-yard box for Maeda, but from only a yard out, the winger could only steer his header off the post. Nancy’s side continued to huff and puff, but were unable to cut into United’s lead. Benjamin Nygren’s free kick was off target in additional time, for their final opportunity of the match. The defeat leaves the Scottish Champions six points behind league leaders Hearts, but they still have one game in hand over their rivals. Dundee United’s first win in eight matches leaves them in 8th place, and they host Hibernian on Saturday afternoon. Dundee United: Richards 8 Keresztes 8 Graham 9 Esselink 8 Strain 7 Stephenson 7 Sibbald 7 Ferry 8 Sapsford 8 Watters 6 Fatah 7 Substitutes: Sevelj 7 Moller 7 Dolcek 7 Celtic: Schmeichel 5 Ralston 5 Trusty 5 Tierney 5 McCowan 6 McGregor 6 Hatate 6 Yang 4 Bernardo 5 Maeda 6 Kenny 3 Substitutes: Engels 4 Yamada 3 Forrest 4 Scales 4 Nygren 4

December 17, 2025

Dundee United 0-0 Motherwell – A goalless draw at Tannadice as both sides struggled in the final third

Out-of-form Dundee United host in-form Motherwell with the hosts in eager need of victory as pressure begins to mount on Jim Goodwin. Motherwell had the first chance, Stephen O’Donnell with a ball where Callum Hendry heads it straight at David Richards. A simple stop for Richards. Stephen Welsh was forced off after 17 minutes through concussion following a coming together with Elliot Watt. Liam Gordon coming on to replace the on-loan Celtic man. Elliot Watt had a chance after 30 minutes from distance but a simple catch by Richards. A poor opening 30 by both sides as both really struggled to find any real chance with next to no clear cut chances. The hosts had a free-kick just outside the box where Ferry took a shot on but firing right at the Motherwell wall keeping the game goalless. Dundee United had penalty claims where Max Watters went around the keeper in which was taken down by Ward but the referee was having none of it. Watt had a late strike from distance but his effort fires well into the stands which sums up the match so far. Sapsford had the best chance, on the right hand side, cutting in and unleashing a weak strike which was stopped by Callum Ward in the Motherwell goals. Maswanhise had a chance of his own, a strike from the edge of the box which was a simple stop for David Richards. HT Dundee United 0-0 Motherwell – A very poor half of football with no clear-cut chances. There was the odd chance but no keeper being forced into any difficulty as the game was without a goal going into the break. Fatah had an early chance in the second half, a strike inside the box which was deflected with Ward catching the ball safely to keep the game on level terms. Fatah again but this time a darting run towards the box with an low-driven attempt unleashed from the edge of the box fired marginally wide of goal. Fateh had yet another chance, Ferry with a ball onto the edge of the box where Fateh’s strike went over and wide which looked to have been deflected but no corner was awarded. Elijah Just had a great strike from just outside the box but a solid block the Iovu resulted in a corner kick. Signs were showing of a goal coming soon. Slattery this time was very close. A brilliant turn on the ball by the midfielder with his strike firing just wide of goal. A lot better by both sides. Sibbald had a wonderful and ambitious attempt. A strike from the half way line as Ward appeared miles out but his attempt going just wide of target. After 75 minutes, Stamatelopoulos was through on goal where he took on a strike which flew wide of goal. Slattery had a huge chance to put his side, just yards out but fired over the top as it looks to edge towards a goalless draw at Tannadice. Said should’ve had the visitors, an attempt inside the box just firing wide of target as both teams look to try and break the deadlock. FT Dundee United 0-0 Dundee United: Richards 6, Strain 6, Esselink 6 , Iouvu 6, Graham 7, Sapsford 6, Ferry 7, Sibbald 6, Fatah8 , Stephenson7 , Watters 6. Subsitutes: Moller 6, Dolcek 6 , Sevelj 6. Motherwell: Ward 7, O’Donnell 6, Slattery 7, Fadinger 6, McGinn 6, Maswanhise 6, Watt 7, Just6 , Koutroumbis 6, Welsh 5, Hendry 5. Subsitutes: Gordon 6, Said 6, Stamatelopoulos 6, Longelo 6, Charles-Cook 6.

December 13, 2025

Dundee United v Motherwell – Match Preview

Dundee United welcome in-form Motherwell to the City Of Discovery as Jim Goodwin aims to get back to winning ways. The last time the two sides clashed was at Fir Park as the Steelmen ran away 2-0 winners in October with goals from Maswanhise and Elliot Watt for Motherwell. The Steelmen have won in four of their last five outings in this meeting with Jim Goodwin’s side last win in this tie coming back in February in a 1-0 victory where Sam Dalby netted the only goal of the game. Since their fourth place finish last season, it hasn’t been all the same for the Tangerines. Dundee United sit 8th after a poor start to their Scottish Premiership campaign. The hosts for Saturday haven’t been able to pick up any win in their last six fixtures with their last win being in a 3-1 win over St Mirren back in October. Jim Goodwin’s side have won once in the last 10 as well as 5 draws and 4 defeats. Motherwell have had the exact opposite as the Steelmen are on fine form this season. Motherwell sit third, just six points off of Celtic in second place. The hosts of course haven’t won in six whereas Motherwell, they haven’t been defeated in six with their last loss being their 4-1defeat at Hampden Park to St Mirren in the Scottish League Cup Semi-finals. Since then, the Fir Park outfit have certainly kicked on and become strong prospects of giving the top four a tough battle. Despite the poor form, Jim Goodwin’s men haven’t been shy of a goal, scoring four goals in five for the Tannadice side. Their defensive side have shown to be fragile with no clean sheets in their last 10 outings. Motherwell have been on good form in front of goal, scoring eight times in their last five matches. The Steelmen have been awarded the most league penalties this campaign, being given a spot-kick on six occasions. Motherwell star-man, Maswanhise, has been a standout this season, netting eight times so far this season where the attacker is currently the league’s top goal scorer. Pairing Max Watters and Julius Esekesen both return to the side while Keresztes will be out through suspension. Dario Naamo and Pan Camara sit out with a hamstring injury as well as Pappoe and Kucherenko also remain out. For Motherwell, Andy Halliday isn’t quite ready for action yet with Stuparevic, Oxborough, Nicholson, Robinson, McGhee and Sule all remaining absent. While speaking about the game, Goodwin described Motherwell as “the most in-form team in the league”. “It’s only natural when you’re on the type of run that we’re on that your confidence is going to take a bit of a hit,” Jim Goodwin said. “But we believe in what we’re doing. We are going through, probably, the toughest period that I’ve experienced during my time as United manager. “Football is not a bed of roses all the time, you’ve got to find a way to get through these difficult periods.” “It’s quite a remarkable transformation and he deserves a huge amount of credit,” the Tannadice boss quoted. “Given results, and where Motherwell are sitting in the table, I imagine there’s people all over Europe taking notice. “Motherwell are the most in-form team in the league. The new manager has been incredible in terms of their playing style and they’re as difficult an opponent as you can face at this moment in time. “But we have to believe we’re capable of winning the game. We didn’t do ourselves justice at Fir Park, the second half was a lot better from us, so we have to make sure we start this game the way we did in the second 45 over there.” Jens Berthel Askou believes it’s “extremely satisfying” seeing how his side plays in his style. “In general it’s been pleasing that players that some would have maybe written off and said, ‘no, that type of football is not for him’, that they have managed to actually be really, really good and strong players in what we’re doing,” Askou said. “That has been extremely fulfilling and satisfying for them as individuals, but especially for us as a club and as a group, that a lot of the players who were already here have been thriving in this, which means we don’t have five, six, seven players that have been left behind by the development. “There’s always one or two that might be caught on the wrong side of the competition, who need to move on when the next window of opportunity comes, and then we’ll see. “But it’s very, very few, and it’s not like we have players who have not done well. When they have played or when they are in training, they all look comfortable and really good, and I think that has been extremely satisfying.” Motherwell are now unbeaten in eight Premiership games and sit third before Saturday’s trip to face Dundee United. The Steelmen boss said: “The key thing is not to dwell on that and think we’re fantastic because we’ve had a good run. “It’s going to be harder and harder to win games the more you win, and we also know that the team we are playing on Saturday is a very good team who have not had the results that I think they’re worth as a group.”

December 12, 2025

St Mirren 2-0 Dundee Utd: Saints get first league win in eight

St Mirren 2-0 Dundee United McMenamin (17′) Baccus (66′) St Mirren secured a comfortable home win over Dundee United as they look to climb the table. After a cagey start, it was the home side who broke the deadlock after Declan John’s terrific cross was met by Conor McMenamin, whose bullet header rifled past Dave Richards into the back of the net. This was McMenamin’s first goal of the season. The visitors looked to reply as Zac Sapsford went through on goal, but failed to convert his chance. Summer signing Nikolaj Möller’s close-range header drifted wide for United, as Mikael Mandron’s long range strike was off target for the Saints. St Mirren carried the one-goal lead as referee Nick Walsh signalled for half-time. The second half started like the first, with half-chances for both sides but neither taking their opportunity. Sapsford came close once again, as his free-kick cannoned off the crossbar. However, St Mirren found a break of the ball and Killian Philips’ shot was saved by Richards, but substitute Keanu Baccus ensured he converted the rebound to give the Saints a two-goal lead. This was Baccus’ first goal since returning to the club in the summer. United still found chances in the latter stages of the game, as Craig Sibbald’s effort hit the bar and substitute Amar Fateh couldn’t find a way past Shamal George. St Mirren held out to ensure a clean sheet and all three points as they achieved their first win in eight league matches. With this result, Dundee United sit 8th in the league without a win in six matches. They next host Motherwell in a 3 o’clock kick-off next Saturday. St Mirren found their first win in five matches in all competitions and eight matches in the league. They climb out of relegation playoff position into 9th, as preparation now starts for their mammoth tie versus Celtic in the Premier Sports Cup final next Sunday afternoon. St Mirren: George, Fraser, King, Freckleton, McMenamin, Philips, Taylor, Gogic, John, Mandron, Ayunga Subs: Baccus (61’), Dijksteel, Douglas, Idowu, Mooney (82’), Mullen, Nlundulu (68’), Richardson 68’, Tanser (82’) Dundee United: Richards, Iovu, Graham, Kereztes, Strain, Sevelj, Stephenson, Sibbald, Ferry, Möller, Sapsford Subs: Adams, Fatah (46’), Beattie, Cleall-Harding, Dolček (82’), Esselink, Stirton, Trapanovski (82’)

December 6, 2025

Kilmarnock 1-1 Dundee United: Scrappy Stalemate at Rugby Park

The points were shared at The BBSP Stadium Rugby Park following a contentious penalty andgoal line clearance decision as Kilmarnock break six game losing streak, drawing 1-1 with Dundee United. Stuart Kettlewell made three changes to his Kilmarnock side which lost to Motherwell lastweek as Ethan Brown, Bradley Lyons and Marley Watkins were brought into the side. Meanwhile, Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin made six changes to the side which wasblown away by Falkirk last Saturday. Dave Richards replaced Kucherenko following thelatter’s howler at Tannadice, whilst captain Ross Graham, Panutche Camara, Ryan Strain,and Max Watters all returned to the starting eleven. Following early pressure by both teams, the first key decision for referee MatthewMacDermid came 14 minutes into the match as, after a VAR check, Ethan Brown was judgedto have fouled Krisztian Keresztes in the box and Dundee United were awarded the penalty. Tobi Oluwayemi would emerge as the hero for Kilmarnock in this instance, as the Celticloanee would save Max Watters effort onto the post and deny the striker his fifth goal of theseason since joining the Dundee side in the summer. Kilmarnock would look to take advantage of Watters’ miss as 20 minutes later Keretzes’challenge on Marley Watkins would send the Englishmen onto the deck, and despite callsthat Watkins went down too easy Kilmarnock were awarded a penalty of their own. Dave Richards almost emulated Oluwayemi as he saved Bruce Anderson’s attempt with hisfeet, however the ball would roll back to Anderson to follow into the back of the net andgive Kilmarnock the lead. This was Anderson’s third goal in all competitions since the start ofthe season. Kilmarnock thought they had a quickfire second when Dundee United failed to deal withDominic Thompson’s freekick and Scott Tiffoney’s header was cleared off the line. Replays showed that the ball had in fact crossed the line, however the referee wouldinstead bring play back for a supposed foul against Dave Richards, much to the disapprovalof the home crowd, as Kilmarnock possessed the one goal advantage going into halftime. Dundee United needed a response for the second half, and less than 20 minutes into playthey would find it, as Ryan Strain and Luca Stephenson would link up well to find theonrushing Craig Sibbald, who would slot home his finish into the bottom corner to giveUnited their equaliser and get his third goal in five matches. In the final 30 minutes of the match, both teams would see spells of possession but a lack ofclear-cut chances and a busy MacDermid would blow his whistle for full time to see the finalscore as 1-1. This result would see Kilmarnock break their run of six straight losses and sit just above therelegation playoffs in tenth place. They face a midweek trip to the capital to play currentleague leaders Hearts, who are winless in their last three matches. Dundee United are four points off the top six with this result, and only one point aboveeighth placed Aberdeen. They host Rangers in their Wednesday night match, with thetravellers having won all four of their league games under new manager Danny Röhl. Kilmarnock: Oluwayemi, Deas, Mayo, Brown, Thompson, Lyons (c), Watson, Brown,Tiffoney, Watkins, AndersonSubs: Lowery, Kiltie, Thomson, John-Jules, Dackers Dundee United: Richards, Keresztes, Graham, Iovu, Ferry, Sibbald, Stephenson, Camara,Strain, Watters, SapsfordSubs: Fatah, Möller, Dolček Attendance: 4,263

November 30, 2025

Dundee Utd 0-3 Falkirk: Bairns Terrific at Tannadice to Stay in Top 6

Dundee United 0-3 Falkirk Miller (3’) Kucherenko OG (22’) Graham (63’) In the return from the international break, Dundee Utd hosted Falkirk at The CalForth Construction Arena with only 2 points separating the sides. It was the away side who started with no time to waste, following a fast counter where the ball fell to Calvin Miller, whose shot was parried by Yevhenii Kucherenko in the Utd net; however Miller was able to tap in the rebound to give Falkirk the lead after only 3 minutes played. Falkirk would continue to dominate, and 20 minutes later their second goal would come. Calvin Miller’s in swinging corner was dealt with horribly by the home side as Kucherenko punched the goal into his own net to double The Bairns lead. Dundee Utd would start to show signs of life as Krisztian Kereztes’ effort would fall into the hands of former Dundee keeper Scott Bain, and Amar Fateh’s header would rattle off of the crossbar to give the Dundee side their best chance of the half thus far. Referee Nick Walsh would blow for the halftime whistle as jeers rung around Tannadice giving manager Jim Goodwin much to think about as he prepared his side for a second half comeback. Into the second half Kristijan Trapanovski and Ryan Strain would enter proceedings as former Dundee Utd striker Brian Graham was issued a yellow card for his offence on Keresztes, Walsh was called over to the VAR monitor but decided against brandishing the red card. An hour into the game and Falkirk would once again gain control of the match, as good passing play from back-to-front led to an excellent pass from Calvin Miller to find Graham on the edge of the box, who cleverly rounded Kucherenko and passed the ball into the back of the net for Falkirk’s third goal of the match. This was Graham’s fourth goal of the season in all competitions since joining Falkirk in the summer. Former United captain Ryan Edwards was subbed on for Falkirk to make his debut at his old stomping ground. Falkirk would expertly see out the final 15 minutes of play to secure an important 3 points and rebound from their disappointing draw to Livingston before the break. This win keeps Falkirk in fifth place, 1 point above Motherwell and only 2 points behind Hibernian and Rangers are above them. They next face a trip to Ibrox next Sunday with the opportunity to move above an inconsistent Rangers with victory. After an abject display, Dundee United find themselves out of the top 6 in seventh place, 4 points adrift of Motherwell and 3 points ahead of eighth-placed Aberdeen. They prepare for a trip to Rugby Park as they play Kilmarnock next Saturday evening. Dundee United: Kucherenko; Iovu, Esselink, Keresztes; Stephenson, Sevelj, Sibbald, Ferry; Dolcek, Sapsford, Amar Fatah. Subs: Strain, Trapanovski, Möller, Watters Falkirk: Bain; Adams, Henderson, Allan, Lissah; Tait, Spencer; Wilson, Williams, Miller; Graham. Subs: Cartwright, Edwards, Agyeman, Ross, Oliver Attendance: 9,736

November 22, 2025

Hearts 1 – 1 Dundee United: Stephenson header earns point for United at Tynecastle

Hearts 1 – 1 Dundee United Kucherenko (25′ OG) Stephenson (45′) Hearts’ unbeaten start to the Scottish Premiership continued after a frantic draw against Dundee United. It was a breathless start in front of a sellout Tynecastle crowd, but the first opening didn’t occur until the 7th minute. Ivan Dolcek slid Zac Sapsford through on Alexander Schwolow’s goal; the attacker cleverly dinked the Austrian goalkeeper to score, but play was brought back for offside. Tomas Bent Magnusson responded for Hearts in the 13th minute. A right-sided corner dropped kindly to the Norwegian on the edge of the box, and his sliced strike forced Yevhen Kucherenko into an important save. Pierre Landry Kabore, fresh off a brace against Dundee eight days ago, was next to test his luck. His left-footed strike had power, but drifted wide of the goal frame. Dario Naamo unleashed Amar Fatah behind the Hearts defence after 17 minutes. The Swede skewed his right-footed shot wide, but the play was brought back again for offside. Oisin McEntee ventured down the United left, and Kabore connected with his fizzed cross to head over, bringing an exhausting opening 20 minutes to a close. A Kucherenko own goal gave Hearts the lead after 25 minutes. Braga found Kyziridis on the edge of the box, and after shifting the ball onto his right foot, he curled a low strike which deflected in off the goalkeeper’s body. Dundee United carried a threat on occasion and grew into the first period. A looping backpost cross found Fatah, who cushioned his header past Schwolow’s goal in the 32nd minute. The visitors almost equalised on the stroke of halftime. Schwolow raced off his line to clear a loose ball, which cannoned off on the onrushing Dolcek. Luckily for Derek McInnes’s side, the deflection fizzed wide. The goal eventually arrived in the 45th minute. Fatah’s backpost corner kick delivery was headed back across the goal by Liverpool loanee Luca Stephenson to spark mayhem in the away end. McInnes opted for a double change at halftime, as they aimed to cement a 10th league victory of the season by bringing on Stephen Kingsley and Michael Steinwender. The changes helped pen the visitors back, and Kucherenko gathered Steinwender’s looping header after 52 minutes as they searched for a second goal. United responded on the hour mark, Fatah drove at the Hearts’ backline, but his blazing strike went high into the Roseburn Stand. Premiership top goalscorer Lawrence Shankland volleyed over a Kyziridis’ cutback as the Tynecastle faithful spurred on their team. The tension was palpable as they aimed to maintain their nine-point league lead. United had the ball in the net in the 71st minute. Sapsford megged Stuart Findlay before drilling the ball across the goal for Fatah to tap home. Once more, play was brought back for an offside. Neither team were able to force the winning goal, and a point felt like a fair result. The Jambos move onto 30 points at the top of the Scottish Premiership, but their lead could be reduced to four if Celtic beat Kilmarnock at Celtic Park. Dundee United remain in the bottom six, but looked far better than their abject showing against Motherwell eleven days ago. They face Falkirk at Tannadice after the international break, with Hearts visiting Aberdeen the day after. Heart of Midlothian: Schwolow 6 McEntee 6 Halkett 7 Findlay 7 Milne 6 Magnusson 6 Devlin 7 Braga 6 Kyziridis 7 Kabore 5 Shankland 6 Substitutes: Steinwender 6 Kingsley 6 Ageu 5 Kerjota 5 Dundee United: Kucherenko 7 Iovu 7 Esselink 7 Keresztes 7 Naamo 6 Dolcek 7 Stephenson 7 Sevelj 6 Camara 7 Fatah 6 Sapsford 7 Substitutes: N/A

November 9, 2025

Hibs and Dundee United Share Six Goals After Late VAR Drama

Hibernian 3 – 3 Dundee United Kucherenko (27′ OG) Bowie (51′) McGrath (86′ pen) Stephenson (15′, 47′) Sapsford (44′) A late Jamie McGrath penalty ensured a point each for Hibs and Dundee United in a high-octane Easter Road meeting. The teams emerged into a raucous Easter Road atmosphere, with Hibs celebrating their club’s 150th anniversary. The home side started brightly, with Josh Mulligan curling an early free kick just over the crossbar. Hibs continued to press, and Martin Boyle had a powerful strike blocked by the Dundee United defence after a knockdown from Warren O’Hora. Boyle was involved again shortly after, gathering a flick from Kieron Bowie but only managing a weak effort that was easily collected by goalkeeper Yehvenii Kucherenko. Slightly against the run of play, Dundee United took the lead in the 15th minute. Luca Stephenson met Will Ferry’s cross to head past Jordan Smith. A brief VAR check confirmed the goal, much to the delight of the large contingent of travelling fans. Hibs levelled in the 27th minute, when a Rocky Bushiri header was bundled into his own net by Kucherenko. Dundee United continued to threaten, primarily through the dangerous trio of Zac Sapsford, Amar Fatah and Ivan Dolcek. Panutche Camara stole the ball from Dylan Levitt, but Sapsford’s subsequent shot was tipped wide by Smith. Stephenson had a chance for his second of the evening, but his low effort was saved by Smith’s feet. Bowie has three goals in all competitions this season, and had two opportunities to add to his tally before halftime. Unfortunately for him, Kucherenko saved both his deflected strike and a diving header to keep the score level. The visitors restored their lead after 44 minutes. After rounding Smith, Ivan Dolcek unselfishly laid the ball off to Sapsford, who slotted it home to send the away section into a frenzy. Dundee United got the perfect start to the second period, with Stephenson grabbing his second goal of the evening just two minutes in. The Liverpool loanee guided Fatah’s low cross to make it 3-1. Hibs responded moments later when Bowie robbed the United defence and scored with a left-footed strike. The goal was eventually awarded after a lengthy VAR check. Hibs almost equalised in the 56th minute. Substitute Junior Hoilett met a fizzing cross from Cadden, only to be denied by a strong hand from Kucherenko. After the hour mark, Dundee United raced forward. Dolcek offloaded the ball to Vicko Sevelj, whose right-footed shot was palmed behind by Smith. Despite conceding five goals, both goalkeepers had made some remarkable saves throughout the match. Bowie had a golden chance to level the score in the 73rd minute. The striker had plenty of time to meet Hoilett’s dinked cross at the back post, but glanced the header agonisingly wide. Hibs enjoyed a period of possession as they searched for the equaliser, but Goodwin’s side remained well-structured, frequently threatening on the counterattack. Hibs finally drew level in the 86th minute when Sevelj was given a straight red card for a handball in the box. This awarded McGrath the chance to level proceedings from the penalty spot. After a short wait, the midfielder calmly drove the ball into Kucherenko’s bottom corner. With seven minutes of additional time, both teams pushed for a winner. Stephenson had an opportunity to complete his hat-trick after racing through, but Smith spread himself well to deflect the shot behind. Bowie had a penalty shout waved off after being dragged down in the six-yard box, and Kucherenko made one last crucial save, tipping a Hoilett header over the bar. The final whistle brought an end to an exhausting and thrilling match between two exciting sides. Hibernian: Smith 6 Cadden 6 O’Hora 6 Bushiri 6 Iredale 6 N. Cadden 7 Boyle 6 Mulligan 6 Levitt 6 McGrath 7 Bowie 7 Substitutes: Hoilett 6 Klidje 6 Barlaser 6 Obita 5 Campbell 5 Dundee United: Kucherenko 6 Esselink 6 Iovu 6 Sevelj 5 Keresztes 6 Dolcek 7 Ferry 6 Camara 7 Fatah 7 Sapsford 7 Stephenson 6 Substitutes: Möller 5 Naamo 5

September 13, 2025

Hibernian and Dundee United Shift Attention to Domestic Football after European Excursions

Scottish Premiership action returns on Saturday following the international break, as Hibs welcome Jim Goodwin’s Dundee United to Easter Road on Saturday evening. David Gray’s Hibs will be eager to claim their second victory of the 2025/26 campaign in front of a bumper crowd inside Easter Road. The Easter Road outfit currently occupies third place, having played three league matches so far, winning one and drawing the other two. The Edinburgh side had played all of those games on the back of European ties, as they were involved in the second qualifying round of the Europa League and the UEFA Conference League qualifiers respectively. Despite an impressive showing in the majority of their European qualifiers, Hibs were denied a place in the league phase of the UEFA Conference League at the expense of last season’s quarter-finalists Legia Warsaw, as the Polish side prevailed 5-4 on aggregate. Hibs are coming into this encounter on the back of a 1-1 draw at home to Stephen Robinson’s St Mirren. Centre-back Rocky Bushiri netted in the 70th minute to cancel out Miguel Freckleton’s opener for the Saints. Jim Goodwin’s Dundee United sit in fourth place, with just one point separating them from their opponents on Saturday. Dundee United were also involved in European action throughout the summer. After finishing fourth last season, they entered the UEFA Conference League second qualifying round. Luxembourg outfit Una Strassen were their opponents, as Dundee United progressed 2-0 on aggregate, which set up a two-legged tie with Rapid Wien in the third qualifying round. United gave a solid account of themselves in both ties against Rapid Wien. However, Goodwin’s side fell just short of a Conference League play-off spot, losing 5-4 in a penalty shootout in the second leg at Tannadice. Most recently, Dundee United claimed all three points in the first Dundee Derby of the season following a 2-0 victory, courtesy of goals from summer arrivals Ivan Dolček and Zac Sapsford. Twelve Hibs players were away on international duty, and each player’s fitness is set to be monitored ahead of Saturday, with Joe Newell remaining sidelined. Middlesbrough and Charlton Athletic loanees Dan Barlaser and Zach Mitchell could make their Hibernian debuts. Dundee United are missing several players: Max Watters, Ryan Strain, Kristijan Trapanovski, and Ross Graham are all out with hamstring injuries, whilst Isaac Pappoe will also miss out.

September 13, 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

Dundee United