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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

McGlynn: “We’re Going to Another Level Now” as Falkirk Prepare for Premiership Return

Falkirk manager John McGlynn praised his side’s focus and momentum after a dominant 4–0 win over The Spartans secured progression to the last 16 of the Premier Sports Cup. Goals from Dylan Tait, Scott Arfield, and a Calvin Miller double rounded off an impressive group stage campaign at The Falkirk Stadium, with the Bairns finishing unbeaten on eleven points. Despite missing out on a seeded place McGlynn insisted the bigger picture far outweighs any short-term disappointment. For the Falkirk boss, next Sunday’s Premiership opener against Dundee United represents more than just a fixture, it marks the end of a long road back to the top flight after 15 years away. He said: “Next Sunday, at 2 o’clock, we’re live on Sky, everybody is buzzing here, everybody is so excited. “It is the first time for a generation of fans that they’re going to see their team playing in the Premiership.” The sense of anticipation has been building for weeks, ever since the Bairns secured their second consecutive promotion to return to the Premiership. McGlynn’s men looked sharp and clinical, with quick, one touch passes, and the ability to drive up the park quickly either from the flanks, or through the centre. While Falkirk’s cup form has been almost flawless, apart from a 0-0 draw away to Cove, where they picked up a bonus point during the shootout, McGlynn admitted it’s now all about what lies ahead: “We’ve come back, and we’ve played a lot of pre-season friendlies, and we’re fed up with them. “With the greatest respect, we’ve got a bit fed up with this because we’re going to go to another level now. “It’s the excitement and the enthusiasm that will be out here next Sunday. The winning momentum is there. “We wanted to continue the momentum today, which we have done.” Falkirk may have been edged out of a seeded spot by the likes of Hearts, St Johnstone, and Partick Thistle, all of whom took maximum points, but they head into the new league campaign unbeaten, confident, and with belief surging through the stands. For the Falkirk faithful, many of whom have never seen their club in the top tier, Sunday’s clash against Dundee United will be more than just a curtain-raiser, it’s a whole new ball game for a generation of supporters.

July 27, 2025

Falkirk Stroll Past Spartans to Seal Last 16 Spot

Falkirk beat The Spartans 4-0 at The Falkirk Stadium this afternoon in their final Premier Sports Cup group stage fixture. Dylan Tait scored in the first half, with Scott Arfield adding a second after the break, before Calvin Miller struck twice to round off an emphatic second-half display. The Bairns entered the match knowing that only a win would keep their hopes of progressing as a seeded team alive. Several sides, such as Premiership rivals Hearts, have already made it through on the maximum 12 points. Team News After the midweek win over Queen’s Park, John McGlynn spoke about rotating between goalkeepers Nicky Hogarth and Scott Bain ahead of the league season. That policy continued today, with the former Celtic stopper returning to the starting line-up in place of Hogarth. McGlynn has yet to confirm his first-choice goalkeeper for next Sunday’s Premiership opener against Dundee United, the club’s first top-flight fixture in 15 years. Also returning to the Bairns’ starting XI were Brian Graham, Tuesday night’s goal scorer, and talisman Scott Arfield. The Spartans needed a win to have any chance of leapfrogging Cove Rangers into second. They made changes themselves, including rotating their goalkeeper with Paddy Martin coming in. There was still no place for Jordan Tapping, who rejoined the club this summer after more than a year out of football in Australia. First Half Falkirk started brightly, particularly through Ethan Ross, who was fresh from scoring twice on Tuesday evening. His pace and delivery caused problems for the Spartans down their right-hand side. The Bairns made their pressure count before the half-hour mark. Brad Spencer whipped in a corner that Brian Graham met with a powerful header. Although his effort was blocked, Dylan Tait reacted quickest and smashed home the rebound. Spartans nearly found an unlikely equaliser late in the half when Liam Henderson misjudged a cross and almost diverted it into his own net, the ball skimming just over the bar. The score remained 1–0 at the break despite Falkirk’s dominance. Second Half That changed early in the second half. Arfield raced through one-on-one with Paddy Martin on the left side of the box and coolly slotted the ball beneath the Spartans’ goalkeeper to double the lead. Moments later, Arfield turned provider. The former Rangers midfielder fizzed a low cross into the box, where Keelan Adams pounced. His shot was blocked on the line, but Calvin Miller followed in to bundle the ball over and seal a comfortable win for Falkirk. Bain would make an excellent save to deny Bradley Whyte to ensure his competitive clean sheet record with the Bairns remained intact. Substitute Alfredo Agyeman turned provider for Miller’s second and Falkirk’s fourth. The Ghanaian picked up the ball on the left wing and delivered a pinpoint cross onto the foot of Miller, who volleyed it home. Falkirk had a couple of chances for a fifth, and a few penalty shouts were waved away, but the match finished 4-0 to the hosts, who advanced to the last 16. Despite their unbeaten group record, the Bairns go into the next stage unseeded, with Hearts, St Johnstone and Partick Thistle all joining the five Scottish European representatives as the seeded sides after finishing their groups on the maximum 12 points. Falkirk will now turn their attention to their Premiership return against Dundee United this weekend, while the Spartans will return to League 2 action against Lowland League winners East Kilbride. Attendance: 2,312

July 26, 2025

Falkirk Boss Weighs Up Goalkeeper Options Ahead of League Opener

Falkirk claimed a 3–1 victory over Queen’s Park in the Premier Sports Cup on Tuesday night. A double from Ethan Ross and a late Brian Graham strike cancelled out Josh Fowler’s opener. But despite the result, much of the post-match focus turned to the battle for the No.1 shirt. Manager John McGlynn reflected critically on the goal his side conceded, suggesting that Nicky Hogarth, back in the starting XI, could have done more. “They get a free kick, their first time up the park, and we don’t defend it,” McGlynn said. “Nicky maybe should do better, and Keelan [Adams] doesn’t follow in. There are factors to us losing the goal.” Hogarth, who had been tipped for a Scotland call-up during the national team’s recent injury crisis between the posts, has been rotated with former Celtic keeper Scott Bain throughout pre-season and the early stages of the cup. McGlynn confirmed that Bain would return for this weekend’s tie against The Spartans but stopped short of naming a first-choice goalkeeper ahead of the new league campaign. “Scott is going to go back in goals on Saturday,” he said. “We’ve alternated pretty much every game, cups and friendlies. There’s been just a minute separating them overall. “Nicky played the first game against Brechin, Scotty played against Cove, then Nicky played tonight. To be honest, they’ve not had an awful lot to do, so I haven’t learned much. “But Scotty needed minutes. He hadn’t played a lot at Celtic, and I think the games have been valuable for him. “Both are very good with their feet, their distribution is excellent, which is something we value in a goalkeeper. “Nicky’s developing well, and for a goalie he’s still young, but he’s gaining experience fast. “It’s a decision we’ll have to make. Scotty will play again on Saturday, but for Dundee United, I couldn’t tell you just yet.” With both keepers pushing for the gloves and McGlynn still undecided, the final Premier Sports Cup group match could prove decisive in settling Falkirk’s goalkeeping hierarchy before the league campaign kicks off. The club boast one of the strongest goalkeeping divisions in the Premiership, with former Partick Thistle number one Jamie Sneddon also an option going forward.

July 23, 2025

Brian Graham Seals Comeback Win as Bairns Edge Past Queen’s Park

Back-to-back promotion winners Falkirk continued their preparations for their return to Scottish football’s topflight this evening by hosting Queen’s Park in the Premier Sports Cup. Both sides were in the Championship last season, but with very different fortunes, the Bairns securing the second of two successive promotions, while Queen’s fell into freefall following their famous victory over Rangers at Ibrox. The Spiders won just once in 13 Championship games after that shock win against their Glasgow rivals. Falkirk began their Premier Sports Cup campaign with a big win over Brechin City but followed it up with a disappointing draw away to Cove Rangers, though they did secure the bonus point on penalties against the Aberdeenshire side. Queen’s, on the other hand, had played two group fixtures already, losing away to The Spartans before comfortably defeating Highland League side Brechin in their second outing. Both teams still had everything to play for heading into kick-off. The hosts got us underway, wearing their change kit and shooting towards the Kevin McAllister Stand. Falkirk dominated the early stages without creating anything clear-cut, and they were punished as the visitors took the lead, Josh Fowler tapping home at the back post after a fine initial save from Nicky Hogarth, who had denied Charlie Fox’s diving header. The goal seemed to rattle the Bairns, and Queen’s almost doubled their advantage soon after. Fowler won the ball with some tenacious pressing on the byline, but the angle was too tight, and Hogarth managed to block. Falkirk drew level right before the break after a lung-bursting counterattack from Ethan Ross. He laid the ball off to Calvin Miller, whose shot was blocked, but Ross was on hand to poke the ball past Callum Ferrie and restore parity. After the interval, the Bairns completed the turnaround. A back-post cross from the left found Ross MacIver, and the target man cushioned his header back across goal, where Ross was waiting to double his tally. Sebastian Drozd, the Spiders’ Ibrox hero, had a huge chance to level the match, finding himself clean through inside the Falkirk penalty area, but the former Millwall man lost his composure and could only find the side netting. Both sides had late chances, with Brian Graham, on as a substitute, notably missing two great opportunities. However, the former Partick Thistle player-manager atoned for his earlier wastefulness by tapping home a deflected Scott Arfield effort at the back post to secure the points for the Bairns. Graham’s finish put the back-to-back title winners back on track for progression to the knockout stages of the Premier Sports Cup. Queen’s Park now travel north to Cove knowing anything less than a win will end their cup hopes while Falkirk can now breathe a little easier after their Cove Rangers draw as they host The Spartans in their final game where a win will be enough to see them top the table. Attendance: 2,387

July 23, 2025

Two football players, Brad Spencer and Ross, stand at the centre circle on a bright artificial pitch, preparing for kickoff during a sunny match.

Brad Spencer Extends Falkirk Stay After Back-to-Back Title Wins

Falkirk have secured a major boost ahead of the new season with influential midfielder Brad Spencer committing his future to the club until 2028. The 29-year-old, who has become a central figure under manager John McGlynn, signed a new three-year contract extension on Thursday morning, with the deal including an option for a further year. Brad is the son of former Rangers, Chelsea and Scotland striker John Spencer. He started his career as a youth player in the United States at Portland Timbers, where his father was head coach before moving to Houston Dynamo, another of his father’s former clubs. He then started his professional career back in Scotland with Kilmarnock but did not make any appearances before spells at Dumbarton, Forfar Athletic and Raith Rovers, where he won League One in 2020 and the Challenge Cup in 2022. Spencer arrived at the Falkirk Stadium in June 2023 and has played a pivotal role in the club’s recent resurgence, helping guide the Bairns to back-to-back league titles. He famously scored a penalty against Alloa Athletic that sealed Falkirk’s unbeaten League One campaign in 2023/24 and went on to captain the side for much of their William Hill Championship-winning season last term. His standout performances in midfield were recognised across the division, earning him the PFA Championship Player of the Year award for 2024/25. Delighted with the news, manager John McGlynn hailed Spencer’s influence on and off the pitch. Speaking to Falkirk’s club site he said: “It’s great news for every Falkirk fan that Brad has extended his contract. It shows his commitment to the football club. “Brad’s been outstanding from the moment he walked in the door. He’s taken on a lot more responsibility since Coll Donaldson has been out injured and has stepped up. “He played every minute of every game last season, but you can see the difference when he isn’t there. “He’s a key member of the squad and we’re absolutely delighted that he’s committed to the club.” Falkirk will return to the topflight for the first time in over a decade this season, and tying down their midfield linchpin sends a strong signal of intent. With Spencer tied up the Bairns have a strong midfield with other options such as Scott Arfield, Calvin Miller and Ethan Ross to choose from as they look to re-establish themselves as a Premiership club this term.

July 18, 2025

Falkirk Flex Their Muscles in Opening Rout Over Brechin

Falkirk kicked off their season with a return to competitive action in the Premier Sports Cup group stage, beating Highland League side Brechin City 7-0 away from home. Dylan Tait began his campaign with a hat-trick, while talisman Scott Arfield netted a brace. Alfredo Agyeman and Ross MacIver also got on the scoresheet in a ruthless performance. The two clubs have experienced vastly different fortunes in recent years. Both were in the Championship during the 2017/18 season, when Brechin endured a disastrous campaign, failing to win a single match before being relegated. Falkirk would follow them down to League One the following year, while Brechin’s decline continued with successive relegations that eventually saw them drop out of the SPFL entirely. Fast forward six years, and the contrast couldn’t be starker. Falkirk is back in the top flight, while Brechin remains stuck in the fifth tier’s northern section. A fixture that was a second-tier clash in 2018 now features a four-division gulf, and the Bairns made that difference count in emphatic fashion at Glebe Park. A dominating performance in the sunshine was the ideal way to kick off the season. While William Hill Premiership rivals Motherwell and Dundee failed to defeat lower league opponents, the league’s newest addition showed their class early on and calmed any nerves over new-season jitters. While the gulf in quality was expected, Falkirk’s relentless display hinted at something deeper: a winning mentality that could set them apart from several of their Premiership rivals this season. Manager John McGlynn has retained the core of the squad that delivered back-to-back League One and Championship titles. His only permanent signings so far are experienced striker Brian Graham from Partick Thistle and goalkeeper Scott Bain from Celtic, with loan additions Lewis Neilson (Hearts) and Henry Cartwright (Leicester City) adding depth. It’s early days, but Falkirk’s strength in depth and ingrained belief raise a tantalising question: might they do more than simply survive in the Premiership? Could the league’s newcomers even push for a top-half finish in their first season back? The Bairns possess a potent blend of youth and experience, balance across the pitch, and, crucially, the mentality of winners. That mindset, forged over two title-winning campaigns where they had to deliver almost every week, is hard-earned and not easily undone. Underestimating Falkirk would be a mistake. If other teams do, they might find themselves playing catch-up, and by then, the new boys could already be out of sight of their expected relegation rivals.

July 13, 2025

Falkirk FC Goalkeeper Preview – Bain and Hogarth Compete for Starting Spot

Falkirk have had a busy pre-season schedule, three matches to win the Stirlingshire Cup kicked off their preparations before a defeat to Edinburgh City and a duo of 4-2 victories over East Fife and Raith Rovers. They still have one more warm-up bout remaining against St Johnstone, with whom they swapped leagues with last year, before heading into competitive Premier Sports Cup on July 12. Key Signings Strengthen the Squad The Bairns have secured the signing of former Partick Thistle captain and joint-caretaker manager Brian Graham, as well as the loan signing of Lewis Neilson from William Hill Premiership rivals Hearts as John McGlynn keeps the faith with his back-to-back title winning team. The only other addition to the first team squad has been that of goalkeeper Scott Bain from Celtic, a rather unusual addition to the squad as McGlynn’s side possess a very good goalkeeper in former Rangers and Nottingham Forest youth Nicky Hogarth. Preseason Goalkeeper Rotation and Competition During preseason McGlynn has opted to rotate his keepers with Bain and Hogarth each playing in three matches and does not yet appear to have settled on a number one for their return to the top flight of Scottish football. While Hogarth retains the jersey, Bain arrives with a wealth of experience, having picked up 14 honours during his spell as a backup with the Hoops and three Scotland caps, while his goalkeeping rival Hogarth has played over 80 matches these past two seasons helping the Bairns rise from William Hill League 1 to the Premiership. Comparing the Keepers: Bain vs Hogarth Bain brings a calm, authoritative presence to the Falkirk goal, known for his strong command of the penalty area and shot-stopping abilities honed at the highest level of Scottish football. His experience in big-game situations and ability to organize defenders makes him a valuable asset, particularly in tight, high-pressure matches as well as his experience working with some of the nations best defenders. In contrast, Hogarth offers a more agile and reactive style, relying on quick reflexes and sharp decision-making. His ability to distribute the ball effectively with both hands and feet allows Falkirk to launch swift counterattacks, an increasingly important trait in modern football. Hogarth also has more long term benefits as a good season for the side in the top flight could see some big offers arrive for the stopper. What Lies Ahead for Falkirk Between the Sticks? The contrast between Bain’s measured composure and Hogarth’s athleticism gives McGlynn a tactical choice depending on the opposition and match situation. Bain’s veteran experience could prove crucial in cup competitions or matches requiring defensive solidity, while Hogarth’s youth and agility suit the fast-paced demands of league play, especially as Falkirk adapt to the Premiership’s rigours. As the Bairns prepare for their final warm-up against St Johnstone, McGlynn’s decision over the number one goalkeeper remains to be seen. However, with two highly capable custodians in Bain and Hogarth, Falkirk can face the upcoming season with confidence in their last line of defence. In case of emergency Falkirk also have Jamie Sneddon as a reliable third option with over a century of appearances for Partick Thistle, giving the divisions new boys one of the strongest goalkeeping departments in the league.

July 8, 2025

Falkirk