Match Reports Archives

Buddies put five past Killie to keep top six hopes alive

St Mirren have ended a four-year winless run against Kilmarnock as they defeated them at home today. It is only Derek McInnes’ 2nd ever defeat to the saints as a manager and his first as the Killie boss. It gives St. Mirren a real boost going into the two final games before the split. For Kilmarnock it sees them teetering over the playoff places at the bottom of the table. Despite the rainy, windy and blustery conditions before kickoff the start of the game greatly contrasted with it, as it was a scintillating opening ten minutes. The Saints press and overlapping runs, put the Killie backline under pressure immediately. It didn’t take long for the opening goal as the saints first shot on goal put them ahead. A low driving shot from Boyd-Munce sizzled past McCrorie. Only moments later the home side put themselves further in front when Ayunga clashed with Mayo in the box leading referee Nick Walsh to point the spot. Idowu adopted a slow run up with a stutter before hitting the ball and he slid it into the back of the net to give the home side a two-goal advantage after only 10 minutes. Despite Killie having most of the possession they failed to capitalise on it. The second half kicked off to improved weather and from the whistle it would appear a better Killie team. However, this was short lived as in the 58th minute the home side went three ahead. A counterattack led to a corner which wasn’t dealt with by the Kille backline. The ball fell to the feet of Boyd-Munce who fired a powerful side foot shot past the keeper. The Saints then began to show their flare upon the hour mark as they began to control the possession of the game and play some good technical football. In the 65th minute the ball fell to Captain Mark O’Hara on the edge of the box. He brought the ball on to his right side and sent a fourth ball into the net of Killie. Only four minutes later the Hawaii Five-o tune blared across the stadium as Declan John received the ball on the left-hand side of the box and fired home the goal of the game with a venomous shot past McCrorie. In the 85th minute Killie were awarded a penalty after Joe Wright was brought down in the box. Anderson fired stopper Hemming but in reality, it was a conciliation goal from an afternoon to forget. After the game Assistant Manager Brian Kerr said; “I think the performance was excellent. I think it’s been coming to be honest. We’ve had real good performances over the last 7/8 weeks without the result to back that up”. A disappointed Derek McInnes said; “St Mirren were hands down smarter than us, more street wise than us and more clinical than us. They thoroughly deserved the three points today”. Killie now return home next Saturday to face off against Motherwell whereas St. Mirren travel up to face Dundee.

March 29, 2025

Hibs cruise past Saints in first gear to go 15 unbeaten

St Johnstone gave their survival chances little hope, leaving Easter Road without having put up any semblance of a fight. With far too much room to manoeuvre Junior Hoilett fired a brilliant curling shot into the top corner in the 18th minute. Failing to heed the warning of the first, St Johnstone were soon two down before the half-hour mark courtesy of a cute finish from talisman Martin Boyle. Kieron Bowie continued to impress since returning from a long term injury, winning Hibs a penalty in the dying minutes of the game. Calmly slotting his penalty home to see Hibs slip away, sealing the already secured three points. Despite finding themselves five points adrift at the bottom of the table, St Johnstone played in a far more relaxed fashion than their status suggested. Under little pressure at the back but struggling to create any opportunities of note as Hibernian harangued them on the break, there was little for Jordan Smith to do on the day. A first half that could have been far worse for Simo Valakari had Mykola Kuharevich not missed a gilt-edged chance with the goal at his mercy following Boyle’s low cross. Beyond a powerful shot from Kieron Bowie, well saved by Andy Fisher, there was little of note to speak of until the eventual penalty, the visitors unable to put together a dangerous attack despite the flurry of changes from the manager at the interval. Victory means Hibs have suffered just one defeat from the last eighteen in all competitions. St Johnstone meanwhile could find themselves eight points off the relegation play-off places should Dundee pull off an unlikely victory at home to Rangers. Line-ups: Hibernian: Smith, Iredale, Bushiri, Miller, Obita, Levitt (Manneh 74), Triantis, Cadden, Hoilett (Campbell 88), Kuharevich (Bowie 65), Boyle (c) (Gayle 74) Unused subs: Bursik, Molotnikov, Ekpiteta, Moriah-Welsh, O’Hora Booked: Iredale Goals: Hoilett (18), Boyle (29), Bowie (90+5) St Johnstone: Fisher, Douglas (Carey 59), Mitchell, Balodis, Wright (Steven 46), Holt, Sprangler (c), Curtis (Duke-McKenna 46), Svedberg (Clark 82), Griffith, Kirk (Kimpioka 46) Unused subs: Sidibeh, Sinclair, Smith, Steven, Watt Booked: Sprangler, Svedberg, Holt Goals: Referee: Mathew MacDermid

March 29, 2025

Celtic see title hopes hit by City smash and grab

A late goal from Kimberley Smit condemned Celtic to a third defeat in a row, putting a serious dent in their aspirations retaining the title. It took until the 23rd minute for the supporters to witness the evening’s first shot on target but Brenna Lovera made absolutely sure it would be remembered, receiving Aleigh Gambone’s pass before thundering the opener past Kelsey Daugherty. Celtic would answer in style, Emma Lawton’s brilliant long range cross met by the clinical Saoirse Noonan just before the hour mark struck. However City made sure to get the last word as Smit was quickest to the pinball in the penalty area in the 85th minute, coolly slotting home the winner. Lovera’s goal marked the crescendo of an otherwise uneventful first half, with performances from both sides hamstrung by the knowledge of what the other could do when gifted the opportunity. There were however further chances before the break, belonging almost entirely to City, playing as though they were de facto hosts at New Douglas Park. Lisa Evans saw her effort from outside the box sail over Daugherty’s goal whilst Natalia Wrobel’s shot would at least force a reaction from the American shot-stopper, albeit just into her chest. Just as these sides had been inseparable this season, so too it seemed they would be on the night as both dominated a half each, with Celtic showing the hallmarks of last season’s title winning contingent in the second. Lawton was denied a goal to add to her assist by her an impressive goal line clearance as City struggled to gain a foothold following the break. In the end Celtic failed to hold onto to the point, with defeat meaning they could be nine points adrift should Hibernian beat Motherwell. Line-ups: Celtic: Daugherty, Clark (c), Bruna, Barclais, Loferski (M. Carstens 61), Ashworth-Clifford (Cross 89), McGregor, McAneny (Ross 75), Gallacher (Agnew 61), Noonan (Harrison 75) Unused subs: Rodgers, Smith, Cavanagh, Momo Booked: McAneny, Clark, McGregor, Bruna, M. Carstens Goals: Noonan (59) Glasgow City: Gibson, Evans (Warrington 90+1), van Diemen, Smit, Muir, Lauder (c) (Fulton 90+1) , Wrobel (Motlhalo 80), Whelan, Gambone, Lovera Forrest (90+1), Kozlova (Maatta 72) Unused subs: Easdon,, Walsh, Love, Lockwood Booked: Smit Goals: Lovera (23), Smit (86)

March 28, 2025

Dundee’s First-Half Blitz Secures Historic Derby Win at Tannadice

Dundee delivered a breathtaking first-half performance to claim a long-awaited derby victory over Dundee United at Tannadice, their first at the ground since 2004. The crucial win also eases their relegation worries in the Scottish Premiership. Jordan McGhee set the tone for the visitors with a towering header to open the scoring, before Scott Tiffoney’s speculative strike from distance slipped through goalkeeper Jack Walton’s hands to double Dundee’s lead. United responded through Glenn Middleton’s curling effort, but McGhee struck again before the break, whipping home his second to restore Dundee’s two-goal cushion. The visitors could have been even further ahead, with two goals ruled out for marginal offsides and Simon Murray going agonisingly close with a sharp effort inside the box. United, comprehensively second-best in the opening 45 minutes, fought back after the interval when Kristijan Trapanovski’s deflected strike found the net, injecting life into the home side’s comeback hopes. Both teams had further chances—Joe Shaughnessy’s looping header landed just over the bar for Dundee, while Sam Dalby sent a headed opportunity wide for United. As the hosts desperately pushed for an equaliser, they were caught out at the back. A moment of recklessness from Emmanuel Adegboyega, United’s last defender, saw him shove Murray inside the box, earning a second yellow card and reducing his side to ten men. Murray stepped up to calmly convert the penalty before sprinting the length of the pitch to celebrate in front of the United fans, sealing a famous derby win. ‘A Performance Full of Spirit’ – Docherty Dundee’s long wait for a league victory—dating back to 5 January—finally ended, with this triumph marking their first top-flight success at Tannadice since a 2-1 win under Jim Duffy 20 years ago. Manager Tony Docherty was full of praise for his side: “That’s the performance we’re capable of. I take huge pride, not just in the result but in the way we played. We’ve won here for the first time in 20 years, and that meant a lot today. The spirit and mentality of the players was fantastic, and I had full trust in them.” The victory lifts Dundee to within a point of Kilmarnock in 10th place, moving them five clear of bottom side St Johnstone. For United, defeat leaves them in fifth, three points ahead of Motherwell in seventh, with just three games left before the league split. Dundee Shake Off Recent Struggles in Stunning Style Docherty and his team had been under serious pressure ahead of this derby, arriving at Tannadice winless in eight league matches and having conceded 24 goals in that time. However, any fears of another collapse were swiftly banished as they flew out of the blocks. They thought they had the lead when Lyall Cameron slotted home after Walton parried Josh Mulligan’s shot, only for VAR to intervene, ruling out the goal for an offside against Oluwaseun Adewumi. Undeterred, Dundee kept pushing forward, and when McGhee met Ziyad Larkeche’s cross with a powerful header, there was no doubt this time. Tiffoney soon added a second, and although Middleton’s goal threatened to drag United back into contention, McGhee’s sublime finish ensured Dundee went into half-time with a deserved 3-1 lead. VAR denied them a fourth when Murray was ruled offside before Ross Graham’s own goal, but Dundee’s relentless attacking display had already done enough damage. United Face Tough Battle for Top-Six Spot While Dundee’s brilliance was clear, United manager Jim Goodwin will be alarmed at his team’s first-half performance, which saw them completely overwhelmed. “The first half was completely unacceptable in every department,” Goodwin admitted. “Every mistake we made, Dundee punished us. We haven’t been as bad as that all season. It’s so hard to put your finger on why.” United’s struggles were compounded by Walton’s uncharacteristic error for Dundee’s second goal and poor marking that allowed McGhee to score twice. Adegboyega’s late dismissal, a moment of desperation as he wrestled Murray to the ground, summed up a frustrating night for the home side. His suspension now adds to Goodwin’s selection headaches ahead of a crucial run-in, with games against Hearts, St Johnstone, and Motherwell set to determine their final league position. With the race for a top-six finish intensifying, United must regroup quickly—while Dundee will look to build on this statement victory and push towards safety.

March 17, 2025

Igamane’s Stunner Seals Rangers’ First Celtic Park Win Since 2020

Rangers secured a second rousing victory in just four days as Hamza Igamane’s stunning late strike inflicted Celtic’s first Scottish Premiership home defeat since December 2023. Barry Ferguson’s side stormed into a two-goal lead by half-time, with Nico Raskin glancing in a James Tavernier corner and Mohamed Diomande drilling a low shot into the net. However, as the effects of their gruelling Europa League win over Fenerbahce began to show, title-chasing Celtic roared back. Daizen Maeda powered home a header before Reo Hatate coolly slotted past Jack Butland to level the match. With momentum swinging towards the hosts, a frantic finale ensued. Yet it was Rangers who found the decisive moment, as Igamane pounced on an Alistair Johnston slip to unleash a thunderous strike, sealing his side’s first victory at Celtic Park since 2020. The win moves Rangers to within 13 points of their Glasgow rivals, delaying Celtic’s potential title celebrations until after the Premiership split next month. Rangers make a statement at Celtic Park A relentless first-half display saw Rangers exploit Celtic’s defensive frailties, with the absence of captain Callum McGregor and centre-backs Auston Trusty and Liam Scales proving costly. Maik Nawrocki, making his first start of the season, endured a tough introduction as the reshuffled defence conceded within four minutes. Raskin outmuscled Jeffrey Schlupp to nod in Tavernier’s corner, setting the tone for a dominant opening spell. Diomande’s composed finish just before the break doubled Rangers’ advantage, and it could have been more had Kasper Schmeichel’s misplaced pass to Vaclav Cerny been punished. Celtic needed a response, and they found one early in the second half. Maeda, deployed on the flank after Adam Idah’s introduction, rose above Tavernier to head in Jota’s cross. A slick team move then saw Luke McCowan tee up Hatate, who dispatched a precise finish beyond Butland to bring Celtic level. At that stage, the reigning champions looked poised to complete the turnaround. Yet Rangers had the final say, with Igamane’s spectacular winner capping a resilient performance that highlighted their growing confidence under Ferguson’s stewardship. A turning point for Rangers? This result marks Rangers’ second derby triumph in succession, following their January victory at Ibrox. More significantly, it represents a statement win on enemy turf after a series of struggles in the domestic campaign. Despite the fatigue from Thursday’s European heroics, Rangers delivered a high-intensity, pressing game that unsettled Celtic early on. The ability to withstand the hosts’ comeback and still find the winning goal speaks volumes about the character instilled by Ferguson and his staff. Celtic’s defensive woes prove costly It was a game of two halves for Celtic. The first was marked by uncertainty at the back, with Schmeichel unusually hesitant and the makeshift defence struggling to contain Rangers’ attacking threat. The second, however, saw a much-improved display as they took control and pushed for a winner. But lapses in concentration ultimately cost them, and they will rue not at least securing a draw. Despite the setback, Celtic remain on course for the title, though they now face the rare sting of a derby defeat at home. What they said Rangers interim manager Barry Ferguson: “We knew Celtic would come at us. At 2-2, I was thinking about everything me and my staff have been drilling into the players. At Rangers, you need character, and they showed that today. “I always knew there was a good team here. They just needed belief, a bit more drive, and that’s what we’ve worked on. The players have responded brilliantly, and you’ve seen the results over the last 10 days.” Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers: “When we got the second, we had the momentum. At that stage, we were in control, and the least we should have taken was a point. “The three goals we conceded were poor from our perspective. Performance-wise, we need to be better both with and without the ball. “We made too many mistakes and let ourselves be pressed too easily. That’s something we have to correct moving forward.”

March 17, 2025

Super Sub Carey secures Saints ticket to Hampden

Venue: The Home of The Set Fare Arena Time: 19:45 Date: 10/03/25 St Johnstone grabbed a late winner to advance them to the semi-finals in what was a game of two halves. After a slight delay to kick-off due to the travelling fans’ firework display, the game was underway. After a cross into the box found him unmarked, Jason Holt had an early chance at the far post. Holt was unable to make any real contact on it, though, leaving the game 0-0. The first card came just four minutes in as Duke-McKenna was second to the ball when challenging Jamie Brandon. As a result, Livingston had a free kick and their first chance. A well-delivered set piece found Robbie Muirhead, but his header was well saved by Andrew Fisher. Another chance came Livingstons’ way as Andrew Shinnie got onto the end of a loose ball. He took his touch to compose himself at the edge of the box but fired his shot just wide of the post. After an impressive start, Livingston had yet another chance. A long throw was met by Danny Wilson, whose header was once again saved by Fisher. 20 minutes in, Adama Sidibeh had the ball in the back of the net. A cross from the right found him alone at the penalty spot. However, his goal was chopped off due to an offside. In the 25th minute, Muirhead had the biggest chance of the game. Tete Yengi laid the ball to him just outside the six-yard box. However, he fired his shot way over the bar. The second booking came 33 minutes into the game, as Ryan McGowan fouled Sidibeh on the halfway line. Preventing a St Johnstone counterattack. As halftime approached, the home side looked far more comfortable in the game. They created more chances and prevented the away side from having any real time on the ball. St Johnstone lacked possession and were second to most balls, stopping them from having any real threat. It was the away team with the first chance in the second half. After a free kick, the ball found its way to MaKenzie Kirk, who had his effort at goal saved. Ten minutes into the second half, St Johnstone looked the better team. They got the ball down more and controlled the game. Livingstons first chance of the second half came courtesy of Yengi. His run and pass to Stephen Kelly gave him the chance of a shot. However, the finish lacked compusure and was put over the bar. Graham Carey opened the scoring just minutes after being subbed on. The left-footed shot from way outside the box sailed into the top right corner, leaving Jerome Prior watching as the ball flew in. In the 84th minute, St Johnstone had a huge chance to put the game to bed. Jason Holt made his way to the by-line, cutting it back to Drey Wright. However, his shot was hit with too much power and finished far over the bar. For a moment, Livingston had 12 players on the field. It took Don Roberston a short time to realise, and the mistake was quickly rectified with play resuming. Livingston failed to capitalise on their first-half dominance, allowing St Johnstone to take control in the second-half. St Johnstone came out in the second half the better team, taking their chance and winning the game. Graham Carey wonder strike It took until the 73rd minute of the game for a team to score. It was the away team who managed to gain the advantage. After the ball found its way to Carey, he took his touch and thundered his effort into the top corner, clipping the bar on its way in. The St Johnstone fans erupted as it looked to secure their ticket to Hampden. Graham Carey was not long on the pitch, and his goal will certainly be one to remember. Managers Comments: David Martindale: “We had more than enough chances to win the game. Two big saves from Fisher and poor executions from us with other chances” Simo Valakari: “We needed some Magic; we needed some heroics. Andy Fisher kept us in the game…We changed our defensive shape at half time, and I think that made the second half much, much easier for us. Then again, we need some magic, a hero, and Graham Carey gave us that.” Referee: D.Robertson Attendance:2,503 Lineups: Livingston: J.Prior, R.McGowan, S.Pittman(R.Fraser), T.Yengi, S.Kelly, J.Brandon(M. Clarke), A.Shinnie(M.Ubochnioma), R.Muirhead(D.Finlayson), M.Tait, C.Montano(R.McAleer), D.Wilson Subs: J.Hamilton, M.Clarke, R.McAlear, R.Fraser, L.Smith, D.Finlayson, M.Ubochioma, M.Nottingham. Manager: D.Martindale St Johnstone: A. Fisher, D.Balodis, Z.Mitchell, J.Holt, O.Svedberg(G.Carey), A.Sidibeh, S.Duke-McKenna(D.Wright), S.Sprangler, M.Kirk, B.Douglas, S.Curtis Subs: R.Sinclair, N.Clark, G.Carey, D.Wright, T. Steven, J. McPake, B.Kimpioka, E.Watt Manager: S.Valakari

March 11, 2025

Sunshine on Parkhead as Idah sends Celtic to Hampden!

The bhoys are set to enjoy yet another day out at Hampden as Maeda and Idah fire home to end Hibs’ impressive 15-game unbeaten run in the Scottish Cup Quarter Final tie at Celtic Park today. The game marked Brendan Rodgers’ 20th win from 20 in this competition and maintains their attempt at another domestic treble. It also marked the highest away attendance in domestic action at Celtic Park since 2018! First Half The first half kicked off and from the outset it was clear the home side were bruised from the result in the capital two weeks ago and were out to prove a point. In the opening ten minutes, it was all Celtic with the away side weathering the storm of constant pressure from Celtic’s channels. Nicolas Kuhn and Jeffrey Schluup causing problems for Hibs backline with balls over the top and in behind the Hibs defence. A smile from Hibs manager David Gray shows he expected this response from the Glasgow side. The best chance for the away side came in the 17th minute when a quick thrown in was taken and Keiron Bowie fired a shot towards the stopper Schmeichel. The Goalkeeper was furious at the linesman as he believed the throw-in taken from the wrong place. The home side were relentless in their attack with the away side throwing constant bodies at shots from outside the box, to the applause of the traveling support. In the 34th minute Hibs were dealt a huge blow as their most in-form player Nicky Cadden went off with a suspected hamstring injury. Just five minutes later, the deadlock was broken by Celtic’s talisman Daizen Maeda with his 27th goal of the season. A ball was fired into the box from Schluup, which was not dealt with by the Hibs defence. A shot from Kuhn was saved by Smith but then fell to the feet of the Japanese International who tapped it home from two yards out. The first half ended with a rocket of a shot from Reo Hatate saved by Smith again. Second Half The second half began the way the first half ended with the home side quick to move the ball up the park, signifying a long second half for the travelling side. By the hour mark, Hibs had not offered much with Celtic controlling the ball. Chances came and went for the home side with the Hibs defence dropping deeper and deeper. Despite all the pressure from Celtic, they still only had a one-goal advantage. Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers knew this, which is why he did not make his usual hour mark substitutions knowing fine well the game was not won. Hibs opted for a change in tactics as they began playing long balls in the hope they could catch the Celtic defense high up the pitch. As we entered the final 20 minutes of the game, Celtic’s strangle hold on the game wasn’t as prevalent as it was in the first hour, with the home side not being able to finish the game off with the chances they’d had along with the away side growing into the game. Both sides’ energy levels showed around the 75th minute as both managers opted for changes in personnel on the pitch. The togetherness of the Hibs team and supporters was demonstrated in the 78th minute when you could hear the 7,000 strong out-singing the Parkhead side. The depth in Celtic’s bench was demonstrated as all substitutions connected to score the winning goal in stoppage time. A nice pair of exchanged passes between McCowan and Yang allowed the ball to be played right into the path of Adam Idah, giving his manager something to think about for next weekend’s Old Firm Derby. Full Time The Final whistle blew and the game ended 2-0 to the current holders of the Scottish Cup as they make their way through to their 82nd semi-final. They join Aberdeen and Hearts in the next round as Brendan Rodgers maintains his 100% record in the competition. Rodgers spoke to the difficulty of this game and said, “We had to be the real Celtic today”. For the Leith side, their 15-game unbeaten run comes to an end at the hands of a controlled Celtic side. The players applauded the travelling support who remained loud throughout the match. On this, the opposing manager said “The Hibs supporters were fantastic today and that’s what we all want to see, it creates atmosphere”. Manager David Gray admits his disappointment and gives his players and fans plaudits but felt the best team won today. Their eyes will cast themselves back to league action as they aim to maintain their place in the league. Celtic now look to a fixture that is marked in every fan’s calendar as they face Rangers next Sunday.

March 9, 2025

Dons down Spiders to advance into semi-final

Aberdeen ran out a convincing 4-1 victory over Queens Park on Saturday as they became the second side to advance into the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup. Graeme Shinnie celebrated his 600th Dons appearance with a goal whilst Kevin Nisbet and Oday Dabbagh’s double completed the scoring before Zach Rudden added a consolation goal for the Spiders. It was a frantic few minutes to kick us off at Pittodrie. Aberdeen had a lovely ball floated into the Queens Park box that just evaded birthday boy Kevin Nisbet and then Alex Jensen misread a clearance that allowed Drozd with a clear path to goal but the winger hesitated and allowed Aberdeen to deal with it defensively. Aberdeen swiftly settled into their usual routine and slowly started to dominate proceedings. The premiership side was beginning to knock on the door of their lower league opponents and Leighton Clarkson was next to test the hero of the last round, Callum Ferrie. He picked the ball up on the edge of the area and with no one closing him down, the midfielder whipped an effort goal-bound but it whizzed over the bar to the relief of Queens Park. Nisbet wasn’t to be denied a second time however, breaking the deadlock just shy of the half hour mark. Palaversa swung in the free kick, low towards the near post and Nisbet produced a stunning flick with his back to goal that went high into the Queens Park net. A beautiful goal with Nistbet finally getting some confidence in an Aberdeen shirt and surely Steve Clarke will be watching on. A quickfire double then had Aberdeen two to the good. Shayden Morris in the wide area then swept the ball low across the Queens Park area and Dabbagh was on hand to double the Dons lead just seconds after the first. Queens Park had looked a threat in the game but the second Dons goal represented a long way back for the Spiders with 30 minutes gone. Aberdeen added a third on the stroke of half-time with makeshift left back Graeme Shinnie getting in on the action. The corner came out to Shinnie on the edge of the area and his left footed volley somehow squeezed its way into the bottom corner. The Aberdeen captain was making his 600th appearence for the Dons, with no better way to celebrate it with a goal. HALF-TIME: Aberdeen 3 – 0 Queens Park Aberdeen were in no mood to take it lightly on their lower league opponents. The Dons started the second half just as they finished the first with influential midfielder Donte Palaversa starting to dictate the game. Another ball past the Queens Park backline had Nisbet chasing through on goal but Ferrie was quick out to snuff out a second goal for the Scotland international. Seconds later however, it was to be a fourth for Aberdeen, seven minutes into the half. Shayden Morris again, utilising his pace when 1v1 with Zach Mauchin drove inside and fired it across goal. It was past the outstretched Ferrie and Dabbagh was there to bundle it into the back of the net. Just after the hour, Queens Park gave their fans something to cheer about when Zach Rudden fired home from close range. A brilliant cross into the Aberdeen box from Jadan Raymond was poorly dealt with from Aberdeen and as the ball trundled along the box, Rudden was there to give the team from Glasgow something to celebrate. Callum Ferrie was starting to replicate the form from his game at Ibrox. Neat footwork from Polvara in the box had the Queens Park keeper make a smart save with his feet and then seconds after the ball into the area, Peter Ambrose’s header had him at full stretch to make a brilliant one handed save to keep the score at 4-1. As the clock wound down, Aberdeen kept trying to add to their advantage but Queens Park defended well and kept going to give their fans something to be proud of. FULL-TIME Aberdeen 4 – 1 Queens Park Teams: Aberdeen: Mitov (GK); Shinnie, Jensen, Dorrington (Milne 72′), Knoester, Clarkson (Gueye 57′), Palaversa, Morris (Polvara 78′), Keskinen, Nisbet (Fletcher-Boyd 57′), Dabbagh (Ambrose 57′) Queens Park: Ferrie (GK); Devine (Raymond 46′), Ujdur (Hinds 57′), Tizzard, Mauchin, Drozd (Rocco 74′), Welsh, Longridge, Turner, Hurst (MacGregor 74′), Rudden

March 8, 2025

Hibs claim victory in a dominant derby display

Venue: Easter Road Time: 12:30 Date: 02/03/2025 Hibs extend their unbeaten run to 15 after a strong display in the Edinburgh derby, getting ever closer to a third-place finish. Hearts had the first chance of the game through Lawrence Shankland. Beni Baningame won his tackle in the middle of the park, giving the ball to Shankland, whose effort from distance was saved. Hibs took the lead, and after looking second favourite to reach Jack Iredales’ long ball, Martin Boyle raced past Gearald Taylor before slotting a side-footed effort into the corner. Minutes later, there was a mix-up between Jordan Smith and Rocky inside their box. The ball was poorly cleared by the defender, and Jorge Grant made no mistake, smashing the ball into the back of the net from 16 yards. After the hectic start, Hearts started to settle into the game; they kept the ball better and were patient in their build-up play. In the 33rd minute, Shankland played Elton Kabangu through on goal. He drove into the box, putting his finish low and hard past Smith. However, as he ran into the corner to celebrate, the linesmans’ flag went up, leaving the game 1-1. Shankland was first to enter the referees’ book. After committing a foul on the touchline, he kicked the ball into the stand and was given a yellow. The first half eventually settled, and Hearts looked more assured out of the two. However, both back lines have shown signs of frailties, something that each team looked to capitalise on in the second half. It was a half-chance for Hibs to start the second half as Nicky Cadden fired his cross into the box. Josh Campbell was close to connecting with his head. However, it went just by him. Hibs started the second half better, and in the 60th minute Nathan Moriah-Welsh went just wide of the post with a well-struck volley. In the 73rd minute, a wonder strike from Hibs centre-back, Iredale, put them a goal ahead. The ball fell to him at the edge of the box, and after taking a first touch to compose himself, he rifled the half-volley across the goal and into the side netting. Leaving Craig Gordon with no chance. Hibs successfully saw the game out, dominating the full second half. A strong team performance restricted Hearts ability to attack and gave them what was a fully deserved victory and an emotional rendition of “Sunshine on Leith.” The dream start for Hibs In what was a scrappy start, the home team were the one to take the lead, Jack Iredale playing the long ball looking for one of his strikers to chase. With Boyle left one-on-one against Hearts’ right back Gerald Taylor, he made no mistake in breaking through on goal. The early lead was exactly what Hibs were after, and their captain provided an excellent finish from the edge of the six-yard box. The advantage had them looking likely to extend their fantastic unbeaten run to fifteen and was sure to settle the nerves of both the players and fans. Hearts bite back Just three minutes after their rivals took the lead, Hearts made no mistake in punishing Rockys’ poor defensive clearance. Jorge Grant was the player to fire the ball into the back of the net as he finished from the edge of the box. Exactly as they needed, Hearts were straight back in the game and looked the better team. They created more chances and kept the ball better, looking to pinpoint areas of weakness in the Hibs’ team. They took the momentum from the goal and used it to control the remainder of the second half. Hibs reclaim their advantage After dominating the second half, it was Hibs who went a goal ahead. A stunning strike from Iredale, who found himself at the edge of the box after a loose clearance. The left-footed strike had Gordon watching as the ball flew past him into the side netting. His first Hibs goal will be one he never forgets, possibly the greatest and most important he ever scores. After the goal, Hibs continued to dominate, making the most of their lead. Strong play from Nicky Cadden applied constant pressure to Taylor, allowing them to create plenty of chances. Manager comments: David Gray: “Delighted to win the derby… 3 real tough games, to beat Celtic here, to go up to Tannadice and win and then to finish that off by beating your local rivals at home.” Neil Critchley: “I thought the first half we were slightly the better team, had good control on the game and played the way we wanted to… Second half, I feel we just lacked belief in what we were doing a little bit” Attendance: 19,873 Lineups: Manager: David Gray Hibernian: J.Smith, W.O’Hora{L.Miller}, M.Boyle{J.Hoilett}, C.Cadden, J.Iredale, N.Cadden{J.Obita}, K.Bowie{D.Gayle}, N.Moriah-Welsh{D.Levitt}, N.Triantis, J.Campbell, Rocky Substitutes: J.Bursik, L.Miller, D.Levitt, E.Youan, H.Kwon, J.Obita, J.Hoilett, D.Gayle, M.Kuharevich Manager: Neil Critchley Hearts: C.Gordon, B.Baningime{Musah Drammeh}, J.Grant{C.Nieuwenhof}, L.Shankland, M.Steinwender, B.Spittal{K.Vargas}, E.Kabangu, J.Wilson{S.Kartum}, J.Penrice, J.Mccart, G.Taylor Substitutes: Z.Clark, C. Nieuwenhof, A.Forrest, H.Milne, L.Neilson, S.Kartum, A.Forrester, M.Drammeh, K.Vargas

March 2, 2025

Motherwell Stun Rangers as Ferguson’s Ibrox Return Ends in Defeat

Motherwell inflicted a third successive home defeat on Rangers, delivering a humbling blow to interim boss Barry Ferguson’s return to Ibrox. First-half strikes from Luke Armstrong and Tom Sparrow secured a memorable win for the visitors, marking only their second league triumph over Rangers in 61 attempts—the previous one also coming at Ibrox last season. Controversy struck late on when Cyriel Dessers had a second goal disallowed for offside, despite replays proving inconclusive as to whether Danilo had interfered with play. Early Expectations Dashed Optimism filled the air pre-match, with home fans buoyed by their side’s comeback victory at Kilmarnock. But any belief in a Rangers resurgence was swiftly dismantled as Motherwell struck early. A defensive calamity saw goalkeeper Jack Butland attempt to release Dessers, only for the forward to be dispossessed in a dangerous area. Dan Casey latched onto the loose ball, Butland parried his effort weakly, and Armstrong pounced to tap home. Initially ruled out for offside, the goal was reinstated by VAR as Armstrong’s run had been perfectly timed. Motherwell, brimming with confidence, carved out another opportunity when Callum Slattery’s cut-back found Sparrow, who narrowly missed from a tight angle. The midfielder wouldn’t be denied a second time. Lennon Miller’s clever play on the left teed up Slattery once more, who picked out Sparrow unmarked in the box—this time, his finish was emphatic. Rangers toiled in response, their play disjointed and uninspired. Dessers came closest, smashing the side-netting from a promising position, before the familiar sound of half-time boos echoed around Ibrox. A Glimmer of Hope, Then More Frustration Ferguson, seeking an instant impact, made three changes at the break. Rangers did improve, but their urgency still lacked the cutting edge required. Dessers capitalised on Casey’s hesitation to halve the deficit, sparking a rally from the hosts. Then came the defining moment of the match. Dessers thought he had levelled, bundling home after a flick-on from Danilo, but the offside flag was raised. Replays failed to offer clarity, yet the goal was chalked off, leaving Rangers furious. James Tavernier, making his 500th appearance for the club, had one last chance to salvage a draw, but he blazed over from a promising position as Motherwell held firm. Rangers’ Ibrox Woes Continue Ferguson’s highly anticipated homecoming ended in bitter disappointment, the same frailties that plagued his predecessors glaringly evident. Having now suffered home defeats to Queen’s Park, St Mirren, and Motherwell, serious concerns loom over Rangers’ inability to assert dominance at Ibrox. The Dessers decision will be debated, but the reality is Rangers fell short once again. Sloppy passing, lost duels, and individual errors proved costly. With a daunting Europa League clash against Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahçe on the horizon, Ferguson must hope for a vastly improved display. Motherwell’s Statement Win While Rangers’ deficiencies stole the headlines, Motherwell’s performance deserved equal credit. Organised, resolute, and fearless, they executed Michael Wimmer’s game plan to perfection. Their defensive structure frustrated Rangers, while their clinical edge in the first half proved decisive. Wimmer had called for a fight, and his players delivered, winning crucial battles and showing composure under pressure. The visitors may have had to dig deep late on, but their second consecutive victory could be transformative in their push for a top-six finish. What They Said Rangers interim manager Barry Ferguson: “There’s clearly a problem playing at home. We need to get to the bottom of it. I told the players the fans would back them if they showed passion—I didn’t see enough of that. But I’ll give everything to fix it.” Motherwell manager Michael Wimmer: “We wanted to change the atmosphere at Ibrox, and the players executed that brilliantly. We were brave, pressed well, and showed courage on the ball. I’m extremely proud of them.”

March 1, 2025

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