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Falkirk

Russell Martin Remains Under Fire as Rangers Held by Falkirk

Falkirk 1-1 Rangers Cartwright (73) – Miovski (41) Second-bottom Falkirk hosted Russell Martin’s struggling Rangers side at the Falkirk Stadium this afternoon, with both teams looking to rebound from disappointing defeats in their previous matches. The Bairns returned to home action after a 3-0 defeat away to Hearts at Tynecastle, following a credible 2-2 draw with Hibs the week before, a match in which they came back from two goals down to earn a point. Rangers, meanwhile, finally secured their first league win of the season – and their first under Martin, with a 94th-minute victory over Livingston last weekend. However, any momentum gained was quickly squandered with a 2-1 defeat to Austrian side Sturm Graz in the UEFA Europa League midweek, both goals coming because of typically catastrophic defending. Wearing their white away kit, Rangers got the match underway at Grangemouth and had the ball in the net inside three minutes. Good work from Mikey Moore created space for a shot that Scott Bain managed to parry, but Djeidi Gassama’s follow-up was ruled out for offside after a VAR check by Steven MacLean. Despite that early warning, it was the hosts who took control. Falkirk’s willingness to spread play wide from defence, coupled with relentless pressing and an aerial bombardment of the Rangers box, put the visitors under intense pressure from the outset, much to the delight of the ferocious home crowd. Despite sustained Falkirk pressure, it was Rangers who offered their head coach some relief with a goal just before half-time. Derek Cornelius, operating at left-back, whipped a ball right across goal for Bojan Miovski to tap home with ease. The away support briefly celebrated before resuming chants against Martin, a reminder that, despite any fleeting signs of progress, they remain firmly opposed to his continued tenure. Into the second half and Rangers did not push on, Falkirk came close on the hour mark, MacIver putting his header wide at the back post despite Butland coming and completely missing the cross. But Rangers slackness would be punished, substitute Henry Cartwright was allowed so much room to drive through the middle of the park before driving his strike past the rooted Butland sending two and a half sides of the Falkirk stadium into delirium. That goal meaning Rangers have set a new club record- 23 away games without a clean sheet. The Bairns would then chase a victory, catching Rangers on the break after a slack Mohammed Diomande pass, Alfredo Agyeman broke forward but his strike went just past the post and Brian Graham would come an inch away from squeezing hot shot from close range under Butland, with the former England goalkeeper just catching his effort by landing on top of the ball. In the end it was to end all square, with chants from the away end of ‘Russell Martin, get out of our club’ it is difficult to see how the former Scotland defender carries on from here as we head into an international break and an opportunity for the Ibrox board to look for potential replacements. For the hosts it is a valuable point that lifts them above Dundee and out of the relegation playoff spot. Falkirk Bain 6; Adams 6, Henderson 6, Neilson 6, McCann 7, Spencer 6, Tait 6 (Cartwright 8), Wilson 6 (Agyeman 6), Williams 7 (Arfield 5), Miller 6 (Samuel-Ogunsuyi 5), MacIver 5 (Graham 5) Subs not used: Hogarth, Oliver, Allan, Lissah Rangers Butland 6; Tavernier 6, Souttar 6, Djiga 7, Cornelius 8; Barron 6 (Bajrami 5), Rothwell 6 (Diomande 5), Raskin 6 (Aasgaard 5); Moore 6 (Antman 6), Gassama 7, Miovski 7 (Chermiti 6) Subs not used: Kelly; Aarons, Cameron, Meghoma Att: 7652

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October 6, 2025

Kyziridis-Inspired Hearts Record Comfortable Victory over Falkirk

Hearts 3 – 0 Falkirk Kyziridis (22′) Shankland (41′) Halkett (47′) A stunning Alexandros Kyziridis strike sent Hearts on their way to a comfortable 3-0 victory at Tynecastle, and to the summit of the Scottish Premiership. The game started at a frantic pace. Calvin Millar tested Alexander Schwolow with a low strike in the opening minute. The goalkeeper was making his first start at Tynecastle after his summer move from Union Berlin. Kyziridis was Hearts’ hero against Livingston 3 weeks ago, and was a constant thorn in the Falkirk side. His inventive cross narrowly evaded Craig Halkett as they searched for the opener. The home side eventually found a rhythm and created several chances in the opening exchanges. Stephen Kingsley stood up a deep cross to the backpost, which Harry Milne headed narrowly wide. The Jambos broke the deadlock after 23 minutes with a candidate for goal of the season. Kyziridis ventured in off the left, beating several white jerseys, and unleashing an arrowing strike past Bain into the top corner. It was a marvellous strike from the Greek winger, who looks to be brilliant business from the Tynecastle outfit. Falkirk occasionally showed signs of the football that secured back-to-back league titles under John McGlynn’s guidance. A clever forward pass by Spencer allowed McCann to sweep a low cross into the Hearts box, but Ross MacIver was unable to find the connection. The lead was doubled after 41 minutes. Lawrence Shankland picked up a loose ball on the edge of the box and drilled a low effort under Bain. The captain endured a somewhat difficult 2024 season, but looks back to his best under Derek McInnes with his third goal in two games. The halftime whistle brought thunderous applause from the home faithful. Hearts were fresh off a first Ibrox victory in 11 years, and were brimming with confidence against the Scottish Championship winners. The home side raced out of the blocks in the second half and added a third in the 47th minute. Kyziridis turned provider, delivering a dangerous corner kick for Craig Halkett to glance home. McGlynn’s team had started slowly against Hibernian on Tuesday evening and were being put to the sword against a dominant Hearts. They looked to respond, as Scott Arfield and Calvin Millar flashed shots wide. Shankland stung Bain’s palms, and Kingsley’s free-kick cannoned off the wall as Hearts searched for a 4th. Braga inspired a Hearts comeback draw against Motherwell last month, and blasted a shot straight at Bain as the game ticked towards the 70-minute mark. Schwolow was alert to tip Tait’s stinging effort away from goal in the 80th minute as McGlynn’s boys searched for a route back. Overall, it was a deserved victory for Derek McInnes’ team, who move top of the Scottish Premiership after Celtic’s goalless draw with Hibernian. Hearts welcome their rivals in the first Edinburgh Derby next Saturday evening. The Bairns return to the Falkirk Stadium a week on Sunday to face Russell Martin’s Rangers.   Hearts: Schwolow 7 Kingsley 8 Halkett 7 Findlay 7 Milne 7 McEntee 7 Baningime 7 Devlin 8 Kyziridis 8 Braga 8 Shankland 7 Substitutes: Steinwender 6 Forrest 6 Magnusson 5 Kerjota 5 Falkirk: Bain 6 Adams 6 Henderson 5 Lissah 5 McCann 6 Spencer 6 Tait 6 Cartwright 6 Williams 6 Miller 6 MacIver 6 Substitutes: Arfield 6 Oliver 6 Hart 5 Ogunsuyi 5 Attendance: 18919

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September 26, 2025

David Gray: Hibs Have “Opportunity to Make History” at Celtic Park

Hibernian threw away a two-goal lead to leave the Falkirk Stadium with just a point last night, despite being 2-0 up on the stroke of half-time. A goal from Ross MacIver in first-half stoppage time and a thundering Liam Henderson header midway through the second half earned the hosts a share of the points and left David Gray scratching his head at just what is going wrong with his side at the moment. The result came on the back of Saturday’s defeat to struggling Rangers at Ibrox. The former Hibees skipper turned manager seems to know where his side are falling short. Speaking post-match, he said: “We’re creating enough chances, but we’re not being clinical enough to finish games off. “At 2-0, we should have been three or four up with the big chances we had, you’re always then suspect of the next goal. It feels right now like a defeat because of the manner of the game, but it’s certainly not a disaster. “It almost became a case of taking a point from an opportunity where we should have had three points, but if I try and be positive, we’re undefeated in the league and got a point away from home at a difficult place to come.” He was quick to stress that his side’s mentality is strong enough to recover from recent setbacks and quickly get back to their best: “Every game is difficult in this league, but as a group, they need to stick together, and they will do that. “There is ownership within the squad, there is accountability, and within that, you need to stick together.” Gray also took a share of responsibility for the recent results, which have seen Hibs win only one of their first five league games, drawing four. He said: “It’s my responsibility to put the team together, improve the players, and educate them as to why we think it’s happening and how to be better in those moments.” They must now quickly regroup for a trip to Celtic Park to take on the also-undefeated champions this weekend in Glasgow. While Gray recognises the challenge ahead, he feels it is one the players should embrace, with the opportunity to become heroes for the Hibee support. He said: “The challenge will be extremely tough. The challenge to the away team [at Celtic Park] is to try and quieten the crowd, whatever that looks like. You do that by putting in a level of performance. “It’s also an opportunity for the players to recreate history, and I’ll remind them and give them the belief to go along their way with our game plan, to try and come back with three points.” Celtic supporters voiced their unrest in previous away matches with Kilmarnock and Partick Thistle, and with more protests set to happen at home, Hibs defender Warren O’Hora feels that frustrating the already restless home crowd would be “ideal” for his sides chances of a win. He did acknowledge how tough the task would be to become the first Hibs side since 2010 to win at Parkhead: “It’s a tough test for anyone. We’ve gone there previously and we’ve done well. “We’ve obviously not got results, but we all know how tough it is to go there and win but we’ll back ourselves and give our best shot, no doubt.” While Gray acknowledged the unrest among the Celtic support, he pointed out that Rangers faced similar issues at Ibrox and that it would have no bearing on his side’s preparations or game plan, stating he and his squad had to “focus on themselves.”

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September 24, 2025

“We Showed We Deserve to Be in This League” – John McGlynn Hails Falkirk Spirit

Falkirk came from two goals down to draw with Hibernian at the Falkirk Stadium last night, edging themselves clear of the league’s bottom two. The visitors struck first when Martin Boyle converted a VAR-awarded penalty after a handball decision against on-loan winger Ethan Williams. Jamie McGrath then doubled Hibs’ advantage, spinning smartly in the box before firing home. On the penalty decision Falkirk boss John McGlynn said: “I suppose by the letter of the law; he stops the ball going in the box. “I think it’s a little bit harsh. But that was all separating the teams at half-time. There’s nothing that you can do about these things. “You just hope over the course of the season they even themselves out. I think it’s the first time we’ve been involved in a bad situation and we’re in our fifth game.” The hosts, however, responded right on the stroke of half-time. Williams made amends for conceding the penalty by delivering a perfect cross for Ross MacIver to tap in with the final kick of the first period. Williams was involved again after the break, providing the corner for Falkirk’s equaliser. His pinpoint delivery was met by Liam Henderson, the powerful centre-half rising highest to thunder a header into the net for 2-2. Falkirk pressed for a winner and looked the stronger side in the closing stages, but ultimately had to settle for a point against the green half of Edinburgh. John McGlynn’s men now turn their attention to the maroon half of the capital, travelling to face high-flying Hearts at Tynecastle on Saturday.  The newly promoted Bairns, who secured back-to-back promotions to return to the Premiership last season, insist they are relishing the challenge rather than fearing it. Previewing the match, captain Brad Spencer said: “That’s why you come to this league, to play the big sides.  “I’m really looking forward to Tynecastle, my first time playing there with fans. These are the games you want as a player.” Spencer admitted, however, that the Premiership brings different challenges: “You get punished a wee bit more for mistakes in the Premiership because you’re up against good players every week.  “But we’re enjoying it. A lot of boys are learning on the job, myself included, and it’s about finding our feet quickly.” McGlynn echoed those sentiments, praising his squad’s resilience and unity: “The team spirit in the dressing room has been massive. It’s a big reason why we’re here.      

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September 24, 2025

Falkirk 2-2 Hibernian

MacIver (45), Henderson (64) – Boyle: (Pen 30), McGrath (43) Falkirk hosted Hibernian for tonight’s Tuesday evening football fix as both teams looked to return to winning ways after defeats in their previous matches. Already eliminated from the Premier Sports Cup at the hands of holders Celtic, the hosts had a free weekend last week following their home loss to St Mirren, whilst Hibernian exited the cup last Saturday, becoming the first Premiership side to lose to Russell Martin’s Rangers. For the Bairns, Manchester United loanee Ethan Williams came in for his first start as the experienced Scott Arfield dropped to the bench in John McGlynn’s only change. In response to the defeat at Ibrox David Gray made two changes with Warren O’Hora and Dan Barlaser coming in for Grant Hanley and Dylan Levitt. Raphael Sallinger retained his place in goal ahead of Jordan Smith and was called into action early doors to deny Ross MacIver inside the area within the first minute. There would be some half chances at both ends before Hibs were awarded a penalty just before the half hour mark. A Nicky Cadden cross hit the arm of Williams inside the area. Referee Calum Scott initially waved away protests but was called over to the monitor at the next break in play and awarded the spot kick. Martin Boyle, who was denied a goal by VAR on Saturday, stepped up and converted past the diving Scott Bain to open the deadlock for his side, the goal met with a chorus of boos from the home support who felt the decision was harsh on their side.There could be no complains over the Edinburgh side’s second however, after some blocked efforts and pinball in the box the ball would fall to Jamie McGrath who would spin excellently in the area before driving his shot low into the corner to double the advantage. Falkirk would pull one back right on the stroke of the half time whistle, Ross MacIver latching onto a Williams cross to tap home. An excellent delivery right into the corridor of uncertainty, Sallinger remained rooted to his line and the Falkirk hitman had the simple task of touching it over the line. Into the second half and McGlynn’s men would remain on top. They would be rewarded for their dominance just after an hour. Liam Henderson thundering a header past Sallinger after a terrific cross from Williams from the corner. A real game of two halves, Falkirk would be closest to a winner as MacIver forced Sallinger into a stop after driving in from the left wing. But it was not to be and the points were to be shared. One gained for the Bairns after their first half showing and two dropped by the Hibees after a dismal drop off in the second 45.

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September 24, 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

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September 3, 2025

Celtic put four past Falkirk to claim last eight League Cup berth

Celtic 4-1 Falkirk Maeda (25′) Johnston (54′) Murray (61′) Henderson (64′ 0g)     Adams (67′) Celtic progressed to the Premier Sports Quarter Final Draw after a convincing four-goal victory against Falkirk. Maeda headed the champions into the lead after 25 minutes, before three more goals in a ruthless 10-minute second-half spell killed off the Bairns, who pulled one back through Keelan Adams which was nothing more than a consolation. Brendan Rodgers made six changes from Celtic’s 2-0 victory at Pittodrie on Sunday against a Falkirk team unbeaten in their group, who themselves made two changes from the disappointing 3-1 league defeat at Livingston last weekend. Celtic started brightly, establishing a high tempo for much of the opening period. James Forrest cushioned a Maeda cross into the path of Johnny Kenny, but the striker flashed wide for the opening chance of the game. Liam Henderson almost gifted Celtic the lead on 11 minutes when his attempted backpass caught out Scott Bain, but luckily trickled past the post to keep the scores level. Kieran Tierney was next to try his luck, but Bain was alert to turn his fizzing strike behind for a corner. Arne Engels crashed a free kick off the crossbar before Celtic eventually took the lead minutes later. Callum McGregor clipped a delicate ball to Tierney, the left back cushioned his header across goal for the onrushing Daizen Maeda to head home for a deserved opener. Falkirk rarely threatened Viljami Sinisalo in the Celtic goal but looked a threat on the counter. The Finnish goalkeeper was alert to tip Calvin Millar’s 20-yard strike past the post, and block Alfie Agyeman’s low strike. Forrest had a golden chance to double the lead, but he headed Luke McCowan’s back-post cross over the bar. Despite wave after wave of Celtic attacks, they were unable to add to Maeda’s heading finish. Celtic started the second half exactly how they ended the first – on the front foot. Forrest’s powerful strike was tipped behind by Bain, and the former teammates exchanged a wry smile as the goalkeeper came out on top again. A barrage of Engels corner kicks followed before the home side eventually doubled their lead. It was the unlikely source of right back Alistair Johnston who fired a left-footed strike into the bottom corner after Millar surrendered possession. The 3rd goal followed on the hour mark as Engels whipped another pinpoint corner kick, which Dane Murray glanced home, rounding off a dream day after signing a new three-year deal hours before. Celtic had the ball in the net again three minutes later. Yang burst down the left, and his cross was met by the knee of Falkirk defender Henderson. He could only watch helplessly as the ball trickled into the Falkirk net. It was a blistering ten-minute spell from Celtic, showcasing the attacking intent that secured a fourth straight Scottish Premiership title last season. The visitors did find consolation soon after, an arrowing Adams strike from the right-hand side of the box whistled past Sinisalo in goal. Celtic regained their composure soon after and they were unable to add to their lead, but Rodgers will be pleased with the comprehensive nature of their victory against the Championship winners.

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August 15, 2025

Rodgers ready for Bairns cup test

Brendan Rodgers has nothing but praise for Falkirk boss John McGlynn but insists there’s no way his Celtic team will take them lightly in their Premier Sports Cup tie. The cup holders enter the competition against last season’s Championship winners in a Friday night contest as the tournament heads into the knockout phase. And Rodgers showed his appreciation of the work done by his opposite in achieving back-to-back promotions to the top flight. “I’m so happy for him as a guy and his football,” he said. “I think what John has demonstrated in his time since he’s gone back into management is that talent and technique will always override power. “Unless you have the resources and the money to get power, technique and talent then it’s sometimes a difficult askespecially when you’re trying to play football “I look at his teams at Raith and I look at what he’s done at Falkirk in bringing them up. You see how they play and you see the attitude, the energy they have in the game and the technical qualities they have. “He deserves all the accolades he gets been absolutely fantastic and they’ve demonstrated that game idea and how they want to play. “They have an inherent belief in that football philosophy, which has allowed Falkirk to get promoted for the first time in years. “For us we don’t underestimate them.  We’ll be ready for them and from the first whistle to be really aggressive in the game.” Bairns boss McGlynn says organisation is the key as they return to Celtic Park on League Cup business, almost a year after losing there 5-2 in the quarter finals in a game where they acquitted themselves well. “They’re always going to go and attack and attack and attack so with the intensity of the game and the tempo it can become relentless,” he said. “We’ve got to make sure that we are very well organised. We are going to have to be nice, bright and sharp with them without the ball. “The ball can come back into play very quickly at a certain part. Whether it’s a goal kick, a throw in, or you know, set play. They’re doing things quickly and they try to you catch out. “So, we cannot turn our back on anything. We’ve got to be so switched on. And if we can do that and have a good shape about us.  If we can stay in the game then you know we can cause one or two problems. Friday’s tie between Celtic and Falkirk will be shown live on Premier Sports, kick off 7:45pm.

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August 15, 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

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August 12, 2025

SPFL Weekly – Matchday 1: Five Talking Points

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

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August 5, 2025

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