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Late Kyziridis Winner Maintains Hearts Unbeaten League Start against Livingston

Livingston 1 – 2 Hearts L. Smith (26′) C. Braga (47′) A. Kyziridis (90+1) Two second-half goals saw the Jambos come from behind to beat Livingston at The Set Fare Arena. Around 6,000 Hearts fans made the short journey west from Edinburgh, and after a frantic opening, their side settled better. Claudio Braga bagged two off the bench against Motherwell last Saturday. He latched onto a clipped Lawrence Shankland pass but dragged his shot across the goal for the game’s first chance. Livingston won their first league match at home three weeks ago, but struggled for clear-cut chances in the opening twenty minutes Hearts continued to grow into the game, Braga and Shankland linked again, but the Hearts captain could not direct his header on target. Livingston took the lead in the 26th minute, Lewis Smith marauded forward on the right, and his low drive beat Zander Clark at the front post. The goal was slightly against the run of play and silenced the large visiting support. The goal invigorated Livingston, who threatened the Hearts box again through Tete Yengi soon after. Hearts struggled to break down a drilled Livingston defence for the remainder of the first period, Blair Spittal’s blocked shot being their closest effort. Livingston had a chance to double their tally, but after stealing possession on the left, Robbie Muirhead’s fired cross had no takers. Yengi came close again on the stroke of halftime, rolling the ball onto his right foot but firing straight at Clark in goal. The halftime whistle blew to boos from the away support. This was the third straight league match that Hearts were behind at the break; Derek McInnes’ men had to improve. Alexandros Kyziridis replaced Craig Halkett at halftime and made an instant impact. Following a corner kick, the Greek winger fired a right-footed cross, which Braga glanced home to level the game. Livingston looked to hit back straight away, but Muirhead’s thunderous free-kick arrowed right of the goal. Kyziridis continued to energise the visitors’ attack as Hearts pressed for a second. He glided infield after 55 minutes, but after beating a yellow shirt, rolled a tame shot at Jerome Prior’s goal. Hearts now played with a conviction, something they lacked for much of the first half. Braga beat the offside trap soon after, but his low cross couldn’t find the feet of Shankland. Braga had another chance to score from the right-hand side of the box, but his shot grazed the side netting. Hearts’ newest signing, Eduardo Ageu Almeida Santos, came off the bench and added further presence in the forward areas. He linked with Cameron Devlin, but unleashed a 20-yard strike wide of Prior’s goal. Braga looked set to give Hearts the lead in the 80th minute. Prior had smothered Ageu’s poked strike, but the forward could only hit the post with the goal beckoning. The home side responded through Stevie May’s inviting free kick. Unfortunately for Livingston, the whipped ball had no takers and bobbled into the hands of Clark in goal. Hearts won the game in stoppage time. Kyziridis picked up the ball on the edge of the box and whipped a low strike around Prior, causing frenzy in the away end. The home side almost equalised in the final seconds, Connor McLennan rose freely in the box but could only divert his header wide. Livingston: Prior 7 Montgomery 6 McGowan 6 Wilson 6 Smith 6 Finlayson 6 Pittman 6 Sylla 6 Bokila 6 Muirhead 7 Yengi 5 Substitutes: Shinnie 6 Winter 6 McLennan 6 May 6 Hearts: Clark 6 Kent 6 Halkett 6 Spittal 6 Findlay 6 Milne 6 McEntee 6 Beningime 7 Devlin 6 Spittal 6 Braga 8 Shankland 6 Substitutes: Kyziridis 8 Ageu 7 Kerjota 6 Kabangu 5

August 30, 2025

Hearts stun Motherwell with three-goal fightback

Hearts 3 – 3 Motherwell Substitute hero Claudio Braga scored two second-half goals as Hearts drew with Motherwell in a sizzling six goal thriller Derek McInnes made three changes from last Saturday’s defeat to St Mirren, looking to build on their unbeaten home start. Motherwell made one change from last weekend’s dramatic extra-time League Cup victory over St Johnstone, Kofi Balmer replacing Ibrahim Said. A sold-out Tynecastle endured a quiet opening 15 minutes. Pierre Landry Kabore came closest for the hosts, cutting in from the right but dragging wide. The visitors took the lead in the 20th minute. A corner kick routine saw the Elliot Watt set up Callum Slattery on the edge of the box, his strike took a wicked deflection, wrong-footing Zander Clark, and sending the sold-out away allocation into frenzy. Slattery had scored the winning goal for Motherwell during their last Tynecastle victory, a positive sign for the away team. Hearts looked to hit back through Stuart Findlay, who met Harry Milne’s back-post cross, but the header lacked power. Derek McInnes’ side had enjoyed an unbeaten start at Tynecastle, but a lack of end product was frustrating the home faithful. 📺 WATCH NOW: Derek McInnes’ post match press conference Jens Berthel Askou’s team were growing into the team, their midfield trio of Elijah Just, Watt, and Slattery were picking up effective spaces, and creating positive openings. Their next chance came just after the half-hour mark. Tawanda Maswanhise’s inswinging cross was powered towards goal by Apostolos Stamatelopoulos. Zander Clark did well to tip away from his bottom corner. The homeside created an opening on the stroke of halftime. Lawrence Shankland found Kabore in the box, but Calum Ward palmed away his directed strike. The halftime whistle blew to a chorus of boos, and Derek McInnes’ men had plenty of work to do to maintain their unbeaten home record. Askou applauded his side’s efforts for much of the first half; a similar second half would secure their first league victory of the season. Motherwell doubled their lead minutes into the second half. Just found Maswanhise on the edge of the box, who unleashed a low strike past the outstretched Clark. An excellent finish, but created superbly by Just Hearts looked to respond instantly, but Claudio Braga’s low cross had no takers across the six-yard box. 📺 WATCH NOW: Well boss Jens Berthel Askou talks to the media at Tynecastle post game The away side continued to pose a threat and added a third in the 62nd minute when Just beat the offside trap to split the Jambos’ backline open. He unselfishly set up Emmanuel Longelo, who fired into the open net from close range. Some of the Hearts faithful had seen enough, opting for an early exit. However, Milne’s arrowing left-foot strike offered some hope to those who stayed. Braga scored Hearts’ second in the 72nd minute; his low strike was deemed to be onside after a lengthy VAR check. Hearts miraculously equalised in the 83rd minute. Harry Milne unleashed another powerful strike, which Ward palmed into the path of Braga, who needed no invitation to slam home from close range to set up a dramatic last seven minutes. Both teams traded blows as the game reached its climax. Braga came the closest to winning the game in the third minute of additional time, but his strike came agonisingly off the post. Six goals, plenty of drama, and a sensational advert for Scottish football. PLAYER RATINGS Hearts: Clark 5 Steinwender 5 Halkett 6 Findlay 5 Milne 6 Kabore 5 McEntee 5 Devlin 6 Forrest 6 Shankland 6 Wilson 5 Subs: Braga 7* Baningime 7* Spittal 5 Kent 5 Kyziridis 5 Motherwell: Ward 6 O’Donnell 6 McGinn 6 Balmer 6 Longelo 6 Fadinger 7 Watt 7 Slattery 8* Maswanhise 7 Just 8* Stamatelopoulos 6 Subs: Said 5 Hendry 5 Osong 5 Halliday

August 23, 2025

Saints and Jambos have eyes on the prize

St Mirren welcome Hearts to the SMISA Stadium as both clubs look to set down a marker in their pursuit of Premier Sports Cup glory. The Premier Sports Cup second round makes it way to Paisley to where two familiar foes battle it out for the all-important spot in the next round in this all-Premiership affair. For both managers, the winners of the tie takes them a step closer to the silverware and Buddies boss Stephen Robinson, fresh from signing his new three-year deal, is feeling confident. “It’s a game we believe we can win,” he said. “I don’t go into any game thinking a draw or a 1-0 defeat is okay. I believe that mentality has changed in my time at the club. “I have a lot of respect for Hearts as a club and Derek as a manager who’s proven he’s a top manager. “We’ve shown against the top sides in the country that we are a competitive side. “Our chances of silverware are the cups we might not win the league every year, we certainly have a chance in the cup we need a luck, form and things to go your way.” Hearts, surprisingly, haven’t won this competition since 1962 so taking this one back to Tynecastle is long overdue. According to manager, Derek McInnes, winning trophies should be one of the main reasons for anyone joining the club. “I’ve said this to them a few times now, but there’s not one player that should have signed for Hearts without having that aspiration,” he said. “I hope, to win a trophy here. “A fundamental part of signing for a club like Hearts should be that you want to be successful and lift silverware. “Obviously, we’ve got to try to beat St Mirren, who over a period of time have shown they are a good side. “But if we can get through this one, we’re 90 minutes away from a semi-final. We go into the game with high expectations of ourselves.” Conor McMenamin and Liam Donnelly are the only names who will be missing from the St Mirren team sheet through injury. Craig Gordon, Jamie McCart, Finlay Pollock, Christian Borchgrevink and Kenneth Vargas are absentees for the Jambos while Adam Forrester could play after returning from St Johnstone less than a week after signing owing to the rules around co-operation agreements. The game kicks off at 3pm and is available to watch on the Premier Sports Player.

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

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

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

Aberdeen Freeze in Tynecastle Cauldron as Hearts Top Table With Victory

There were chants of ‘we shall not be moved’ at Tynecastle Park as hosts Hearts moved up to first place in the table, as the Jambos faithful created a raucous atmosphere as they watched their side defeat Scottish Cup holders Aberdeen 2-0. Both sides were able to round off the first week of Premiership action, amid fears of a potential postponement due to an amber level weather warning of severe wind. Hearts came into this one the sharpest of the two sides, having played four Premier Sports Cup matches prior to this, winning all four, and scoring four in each. Not to mention defeating Premier League opposition in Sunderland 3-0 also, in a testimonial for club legend Craig Gordon. Aberdeen were away from in the opening Monday night fixture for the second consecutive season after they beat St Johnstone 2-1 this time last year, but the side from the North East were unable to replicate the same kind of result which kickstarted their memorable unbeaten run at the start of last season. Hearts would take the lead in the 11th minute, courtesy of Aberdeen captain Graeme Shinnie, who had been receiving the pantomime villain treatment from the home support up until this point. A Harry Milne cross hit off the Dons’ skipper last before hitting the net, which all started from Claudio Braga driving down the right hand side to make it all happen, and when his cross led to a Cammy Devlin strike deflecting out to Milne, he zipped a ball across to help put the Maroon side ahead. Milne almost doubled the lead three minutes later, when his strike surprised all of Tynecastle when it hit the bar. Aberdeen would hit the woodwork themselves just a minute later, when Nicolas Milanovic’s cross hit off the leg of Kusini Yengi and tumbled onto the post left of Zander Clark. Hearts thought they had doubled their lead just on the stroke of half time, this time through their captain, Lawrence Shankland, who found the top left corner with a fantastic curling strike outside the box. However, after a lengthy VAR check, the goal was ruled out for an offside in the build up, giving the Gorgie side a one goal advantage to defend going into the second period. There was a clear momentum shift to be seen from the beginning of the second half, which seen Aberdeen create many opportunities and enjoy large spells of possession in the Hearts half. No opportunity came better than Kusini Yengi’s five minutes after the restart, with the Australian getting onto the end of a deep curling Leighton Clarkson free kick from around six yards out. His effort, however, bounced wide of the goal on what was the striker’s competitive debut for the Dons. Hearts weathered a red coloured storm for the first two thirds of the second half, before coming alive again and doubling their advantage. Harry Milne lifts a free kick in from a narrow position which was failed to be cleared by Aberdeen’s Mats Knoester, allowing Scotland international Stuart Findlay to capitalise and beat Mitov in the Aberdeen net in the air to give Hearts a two goal cushion and net his second of the season already. There was another worryingly long VAR check for a potential offside put hearts in mouths around Tynecastle, but groans quickly turned into cheers of delight when referee Nick Walsh pointed to the centre circle. This result continues Derek McInnes’ 100% record as Hearts manager following his appointment at the end of last season, as his side look to make it ten competitive victories in a row when they travel to Tannadice to face Dundee United this Sunday afternoon. For Jimmy Thelin and his men, they face the easy task of hosting the champions Celtic at Pittodrie in the Sunday lunchtime fixture, with Brendan Rodgers’ side looking to avenge their Scottish Cup Final loss and make it two wins out of two for the campaign. Hearts: Clark, Kent (Steinweinder, 70′), Hackett, Shankland (Magnusson, 90′), Braga (Wilson, 71′), Borchgrevnik (Forrest, 70′), Devlin, Spittal (Kyziridis, 70′) , Milne, Findlay (Goal, 73′), McEntee Bookings: Kent (19′), Hackett (54′), Devlin (61′) Aberdeen: Mitov, Shinnie (OG, 11′, Devlin 81′), Knoester, Nilsen (Morris, 69′), Aouchiche, Yengi (Boyd, 62′) Clarkson, Milanovic (Sokler, 81′) , Milne, Jensen, Keskinen (Polvara, 62′) Bookings: Aouchiche (60′), Milanovic (78′)

August 5, 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

Hearts Triumph Against Premier League New Boys

Hearts celebrated the career of Scottish goalkeeper Craig Gordon with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Premier League newcomers Sunderland. Still recovering from a shoulder injury, Gordon was substituted early in a pre-planned move. A clear indication that his recovery was ongoing after missing the final three games of last season. Sunderland’s travelling support were in fine voice as their team started brightly. Simon Adingra, a £21 million signing from Brighton, looked lively on the left. However, it was Derek McInnes’s side who took the lead in the 11th minute. A cross from the right found Claudio Braga, whose bullet header sent the home support into raptures. This marked Braga’s fourth goal in Hearts’ maroon, already establishing himself as a fan favourite in Gorgie. The majority of the first half lacked quality, with neither team carving out clear chances. Hearts were forced to make a precautionary substitution when Calem Nieuwenhof picked up a hamstring issue. Hearts started the second half well. Efforts from the impressive Oisin McEntee and Lawrence Shankland raised the volume in what had been a subdued Tynecastle atmosphere. Just after the hour mark, Shankland doubled Hearts’ lead. Spittal and Milne linked up from a Hearts corner, firing the ball out to the captain, who drilled it low into the net. The move looked to have been masterminded by Hearts’ set-piece coach, Ross Grant. Sunderland rarely threatened the Hearts’ goal, appearing several weeks behind their opponents in terms of game time, fitness, and intensity. Regis Le Bris made a remarkable eight changes in the 70th minute, including the introduction of Patrick Roberts. The Hearts faithful gave the former Celtic man a “warm” welcome. Hearts made their own substitutions, notably bringing on Greek winger Alexandros Kyziridis. The wide man proved a constant threat coming in off the left side and was rewarded with a goal after a defensive mistake from the Sunderland defence. For Hearts, this was a positive way to round off their pre-season. While McInnes noted plans for a behind-closed-doors friendly on Wednesday, this match felt like their final major preparation as they gear up for the visit of Aberdeen in nine days. TeamsHearts: Gordon, Kent, Halkett, Nieuwenhof, Shankland, Braga, Devlin, Milne, Findlay, McEntee, Forrester.Sunderland: Moore, Hume, Ballard, Seelt, Huggins, Neil, Sadiki, Le Fée, Talbi, Adingra, Mayenda.

July 26, 2025

Premier Sports Cup: Hearts Cruise Past Dumbarton to Secure Seeded Knockout Spot

Hearts continued their impressive Premier Sports Cup showing with a win over Scottish League Two side Dumbarton at Tynecastle this evening. The Jambos finished their group stage campaign with a perfect 12 points from four games and progress to the knockout rounds as a seeded team. Dumbarton, entering a new era under Canadian owner Mario Lapointe and signing 16 new players, came into the match off the back of a heavy defeat to Dunfermline. Amongst the new arrivals at Dumbarton was former Hearts forwards Ally Roy, who started at the ground he began his career at. The hosts got proceedings underway, shooting towards the travelling Dumbarton support, and dominated the early stages, Lawrence Shankland going close within the first minute. Dumbarton’s Irish defender, Gordon Walker, produced a crucial early interception to deny Hearts, but the breakthrough came midway through the first half. Club captain Shankland met a pinpoint Stephen Kingsley cross with a diving header past Dumbarton keeper Shay Kelly, the 18-year-old younger brother of Rangers stopper Liam. Hearts killed off any chance of an upset just before half-time. A Sander Kartum corner was nodded home by Michael Steinwender, breaking the resolve of Dumbarton’s stubborn defence. In the second half, Scott Tomlinson rattled the crossbar for the visitors after beating Kingsley, as the Sons pushed for an unlikely comeback. But Hearts extinguished any remaining hope when new signing Alexandros Kyziridis burst into the penalty area and drove a low effort across Kelly into the net. The Greek winger now has two goals in two games as the Jambos look to bounce back from last season’s disappointing campaign, with signs of smart summer business under new boss Derek McInnes. Hearts hit four for the fourth consecutive Premier Sports Cup match with another new signing Claudio Braga, tapping home a Cammy Devlin cut back. Hearts would continue to threaten for a fifth while Dumbarton huffed and puffed for some rare up field ventures. Both sides would make numerous changes as the game petered out. Hearts finish the group with four wins from four and look back to their best ahead of their Premiership opener against Aberdeen. The Jambos looking to return to the top-six this year and push for a European return. Dumbarton now travel to Hamilton knowing only a win and a huge goal swing from Dunfermline would see them progress. Dunfermline take on the group’s basement side Stirling in their final fixture. Dumbarton return to League Two this year and kick off their campaign against Clyde at the Marbill Coaches Stadium a week on Saturday as they look to return to the third tier at the first time of asking.

July 23, 2025

Hearts