Dundee United Archives - Page 3 of 5

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

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

Dundee United