SPFL Archives - Page 14 of 17

Motherwell’s Counter-Attack Masterclass Sinks St Johnstone as Valakari’s Return Falls Short

St Johnstone manager Simo Valakari’s return to Fir Park was a challenging one, as Motherwell handed his team a third consecutive defeat in the Scottish Premiership. Valakari, a former Motherwell player, faced a familiar setting but found no favours as the hosts took a 2-0 lead by half-time with an impressive counter-attacking display. Motherwell’s quick and decisive breaks repeatedly troubled St Johnstone’s backline, with right-back Marvin Kaleta particularly effective down the flank. Kaleta’s pinpoint cross set up the first goal, finished sharply by Tawanda Maswanhise. Tom Sparrow added to the tally soon after with a low, well-placed shot, leaving the visitors struggling to keep up. Under manager Stuart Kettlewell, Motherwell continue to capitalise on their strengths and have now opened up a notable seven-point gap above seventh place, underlining their ambitions for a top-six finish. Kettlewell praised his side’s ability to exploit the open spaces left by St Johnstone, a team trying to adopt a more attacking style this season but currently grappling with defensive vulnerabilities. St Johnstone did show some resilience in the second half, with Valakari making defensive adjustments to try and stabilise the game. Bringing on Lewis Neilson and Andre Raymond at the break bolstered their defence, allowing them to regain some control. They were given hope when VAR awarded a penalty after Andy Halliday’s handball, which captain Nicky Clark converted confidently to reduce the deficit. In a dramatic final phase, St Johnstone thought they had found an equaliser when Jack Sanders tapped in from a corner. However, VAR intervened again, ruling out the goal for handball and dashing the visitors’ late hopes. Motherwell’s composed performance saw them hold on to secure their fifth-place position, now tied on points with Dundee United and Rangers. Meanwhile, St Johnstone, facing a string of recent setbacks, sit in 10th as they work to balance their newfound attacking intent with greater defensive solidity. Full time: Motherwell 2-1 St Johnstone Attendance: 4,306

November 9, 2024

Preview – Motherwell v St Johnstone

Simo Valakari set for emotional return to Fir Park this afternoon. St. Johnstone manager Valakari takes his team to Motherwell this afternoon as he returns to the club he spent four years at as a player. The hosts Stuart Kettlewell’s side narrowly missed out on a League Cup final place after a late winner sent them out of the competition to Rangers last weekend. The Steelmen have been going strong in the league, sitting in fifth spot with 16 points to their name. Motherwell look set to be without both captain and vice captain as Paul McGinn and Stephen O’Donnell are still on the treatment table. 18-year-old Lennon Miller captained the side in last weekends cup tie so it is expected he will take the armband once again. The teenager has been a standout in a strong Motherwell side this season. The Scottish sensation has equipped himself beautifully in his third full season at senior level and continues to improve. Showing a touch of brilliance in the midfield, he has been a key influence in how Well’ have preformed this season. The youngster has been highly tipped for a move in the summer, with several premier league clubs keeping an eye on him. The visitors St. Johnstone come into the fixture on the back of two defeats on the spin, dropping points to Hearts and St. Mirren. Newly appointed Simo Valakari had made an impact with wins against Ross County and Dundee but questions are being asked already as The Saints are starting to slide down the table. The Saints can be a serious goal threat though, striker Benji Kimpioka has had a brilliant start to life in his first full season with the club, netting five goals already this campaign. Aside from Uche Ikpeazu, St. Johnstone are largely at full strength today as they try and get themselves away from the bottom end of the table. Previous meetings The clubs have met once already this season with Motherwell taking all three points, claiming a 2-1 victory. That was a St. Johnstone side managed by Craig Levein however, with the manager being sacked after a poor run of form. The last meeting on this ground though was won by The Saints however, prevailing 2-1 in the last fixture of last season. Predicted lineups Motherwell: Oxborough; Balmer, Gordon, Casey; Kaleta, Wilson, Halliday, Seddon; Miller; Stamatelopoulos, Maswanhise St Johnstone: Sinclair; Wright, Sanders, Cameron, Douglas; Carey, Sprangler, Holt; Clark; Sidibeh, Kimpioka

November 9, 2024

Preview – Dundee United v Ross County

Jim Goodwin is hoping to solidify Dundee United’s position in fourth as they host Ross County on Saturday. The Dundee United manager has just signed an extension to his contract and will be looking to celebrate with all three points against a County side that has not won away from home in over 14 months. The hosts Some in the media had tipped United to be relegation candidates this season, but they have equipped themselves very well since being promoted. The Arabs are only three points behind Rangers, knowing a win today will have them level with the Glasgow side hosting Hearts tomorrow. United earned themselves a draw last weekend with a late equaliser against Hibs but flattered to deceive much of the game. They are without a win in their last three fixtures, with defeats to Motherwell and Aberdeen. Sam Dalby is the dangerman for The Arabs with three goals to his name this season, but this is a United side that has goals littered across the park. The Arabs have ten different scorers in the league this season, so there is danger in every area of the park for County. The visitors Ross County come into the game with a torrid away record. Don Cowie has spoken extensively about his side’s need to carry their impressive home form into their away fixtures if they are to avoid finishing in the relegation playoffs for a third season in a row. County will be confident heading into the game, being unbeaten in their last three fixtures, taking five points from a possible nine. The Staggies are sitting ninth in the league currently, but with teams near the bottom so congested, a win today could see them rise into the top six. Cowie has completely changed the defensive capabilities of Ross County since his arrival in February. Utilising a back 3 with effective wingbacks, the partnership forming with Akil Wright, Kacper Lopata and Ryan Leak is a key component in what makes this a Staggies side that is difficult to break down. County are still without George Harmon. The defender has been progressing well but it is expected to be a while before the influential defender makes the County squad. Previous meetings These two met on just the second weekend of the season way back in August with the teams playing out a 1-1 draw. Ronan Hale scored his first league goal for the club as his 95th minute equailser ensured a draw in Dingwall. Their last meeting at Tannadice was even more enjoyable for the Staggies as they managed a 3-1 victory back in May 2023. Predicted lineups Dundee United: Walton; Adegboyega, Gallagher, Holt; Strain, Sevelj, Babunski, Ferry; Stephenson, Dalby, Middleton Ross County: Laidlaw; Wright, Lopata, Campbell; Brown, Randall, Denholm, Reid; Chilvers; White, Hale Referee: John Beaton & VAR: Gavin Duncan

November 9, 2024

Preview – Hibernian vs St Mirren

The last time these sides met St Mirren came away comfortable 3-0 winners in Paisley, a result which set the tone for Hibernian’s campaign but failed to become the start of another impressive season for Stephen Robinson’s men. Hibs look to convert performances into points Far from looking second best, Hibs have often been dominant side, let down only by their inexplicable inability to maintain a lead. On only three occasions this season have their opponents had more of the ball, with two of those coming in games against the Old Firm. It is not a case of sterile dominance either, the growing chemistry between Junior Hoilett and Jordan Obita down the left wing is become another important attacking tool for David Gray. Rather, the problem lies in the final third of both ends. Following another late equaliser at Easter Road, the manager lamented the ‘inconsistencies’ of penalties awarded by VAR. However, the penalty decisions aside, it fails to account for the regular shipment of late goals. Nine let in during the final 15 minutes accounts for over half of the goals Hibs have conceded in the SPFL this season. Gray has not had much luck further up the park either, their ten goals scored this season the joint worst with Ross County. With four league goals between them, Dylan Vente, Kieron Bowie, Dwight Gayle and Mykola Kukhareych have all failed to kick on up front, with Vente being sent out on loan despite costing a reported £700k last summer. Saints seek stability on the pitch It has not been plain sailing since the Saints achieved their second top six finish in a row, with problems mounting both on and off the pitch. The side has been unable to generate momentum following their wins, with victories against Hibs and Hearts both being followed by four games without one. A pattern looking set to repeat itself as their 3-1 victory over St Johnston preceded a goalless draw with Ross County. Greg Kiltie’s saved penalty was an opportunity missed but the side remain in the top half of the table despite winning only a quarter of their games. St Mirren’s problems however, extend beyond the confines of the ground as off-field turbulence continues to disrupt the club. Shaun Rooney’s exit from the club after an assault charge in October was followed by the termination of Kevin van Veen’s loan after appearing in court, charged with domestic abuse. Now, Jaden Brown could be the latest to leave as he awaits sentencing for multiple driving charges. It is difficult to imagine this turbulence won’t have impacted the players’ performances but Robinson will need to steady the ship and his side face a difficult trip to Easter Road. Clash of bright sparks It is not quite the story of an immovable object meeting an unstoppable force but the upcoming clash between Marvin Ekpiteta and Toyosi Olusanya is a mouthwatering prospect for both sets of fans. Despite being rooted at the bottom of the table, the Hibs defence is the sixth best in the league and Ekpiteta has been pivotal in recent weeks.Statistically, the defender ranks among the best centre-backs in the league in winning duels both in the air and on the ground. There is no doubt he has looked increasingly assured since a difficult start to the season. What is in doubt, is whether his recent performances can carry his teammates to only their second victory of the season. Meanwhile Olusanya continues to terrorise defences with his harried pressing and physicality. With four goals in eight league fixtures, the former Middlesborough player has almost matched the 6 in 35 of last season. Despite a shot accuracy of only 27%, the forward continues to demand the ball and chase down defenders. Perfectly suited the Saints game which aims to take advantage of disorganised play. His dominant performance against Rangers’ Robin Propper saw the Dutch defender subbed off and not start a game since. Ekpiteta will know he has his work cut out as fans look set to be treated to one of the contests of the weekend.

November 8, 2024

Naismith speaks publicly for the first time since leaving the Hearts job

Steven Naismith speaks publicly for the first time since leaving the Hearts job in September. He has taken time to reflect on his time with the Edinburgh club and his journey from player to B-team and then Head Coach. Steven is fascinating speaking about his ambitions for the next role, demonstrating his passion for the game hasn’t been dimmed by his experience at Hearts. Derek McInnes is full of admiration for Steven’s time at Hearts and backs him to succeed in the future. Derek followed a similar path to Steven by starting his managerial career as player-manager at St Johnstone. He tells a hilarious story about deciding to bench himself, before revealing Craig Levein’s ‘jinx’ role in losing his job at Bristol City. Derek provides an insight into the fraternity of managers, by revealing the advice he was given by Walter Smith and Sir Alex Ferguson. Steven Naismith on how he reflects on leaving Hearts “It’s disappointing, there’s a bit of frustration there because you do believe, we worked so hard over the previous year to bring success at the start which we managed to do and then the reward of that is European football, you get to develop the squad a bit. I thought we did that. “I think nobody complained about the recruitment over the summer. But then, as a young manager, you signed players and you think at the start of a season ‘brilliant, we’ve got this option, that option’, but probably the bit you can’t judge is how much time players are going to take to settle, especially when for nearly every player we signed, Hearts is a bigger club from where they came from. “Now my experience of going to Rangers from Kilmarnock, it’s sink or swim time at moments. So, there’s probably any element of that. “Our first game against Rangers was excellent. All that was missing was the goal and then from there, you lose a couple of games, some bad decisions from me, individual error cost us a lot and before you know it, you’re trying to stem that tide. “For me, it’s small moments, Dundee United at home, we control the game a lot, didn’t take any chances, they score late on with a deflected goal and that builds. “A lot of people spoke about how big the job was before I took it. As a person I’ll evaluate everything, what are the pros and cons of going into any job? It was a big risk for me personally going in as a younger manager. “[There’s] two things you need to do is – one – get success but then when you do that, you need keep it there because if you don’t pressure comes and you’re going to lose your job. That’s inevitably how it came about. “I loved every minute of it. I thought we did a good job but at the cold end of it success and pressure and demands are there and if you don’t hit them you’re gonna lose your job and that’s what happened so I’m comfortable with it all. “I’ve reflected on a lot of the decisions you do learn a lot. As a player you think you know it all, you go into coaching and then there’s other bits you go ‘that’s different to what it was like as I thought as a player’ and then it’s again, when you become a manager, it’s different again but I loved it, loved every minute of it. “I love the intensity of it and just disappointed because I thought we had, Hearts do have a good squad and I think they will come good this season.” Steven on still believing he could turn Hearts’ fortunes around “I don’t think you know, or I certainly didn’t know. I understood that you look at results and you go ‘right if we can get a result here, if we don’t that builds the pressure’. Inside I was probably thinking you’ll get to the international break because it was three games there and they were probably games that you’re more likely to look at and go right – we should win. Ross County at home, the European game and then a big one is going to be Aberdeen. But even after the St Mirren game when we get beat 2-1, I’m sitting there really still believing that we can turn this around and I can make this better. And then when you have the phone call the next day that is what it is but I don’t think there’s a structure or a set way for it to happen or how it comes, the conversation’s had and I think if you’re honest it’s the best way you can go about it all.” The Warm-Up is William Hill’s weekly SPFL preview show hosted by Gordon Duncan and Sam North. You can find the full episode on The Warm-Up YouTube channel, where episodes premiere every Friday.

November 8, 2024

Preview – Aberdeen v Dundee

Aberdeen host Dundee in the evening fixture of the William Hill SPFL this weekend as Jimmy Thelin’s Dons look to bounce back after their semi-final drubbing last weekend. The Teams Aberdeen come into the fixture with an unbeaten league record and are still joint-top alongside Celtic. It was Thelin’s first defeat as Aberdeen manager in the 6-0 demolition against Celtic, and it is the first time we will see what kind of reaction the Dandies have after such a bruising defeat. Dundee come into the game with two wins in their last six and has been stuttering lately in trying to find some consistency. A late winner against Kilmarnock in their last fixture will have given the Dark Blues some confidence heading into the game, and they will be hoping to build on that. Previous meetings These two sides met earlier in the season, with Aberdeen prevailing 2-1, thanks to goals from Kevin Nisbet and Topi Keskinen. This isn’t a happy ground for Dundee, they havent recorded a victory in Aberdeen since 2004. They’ll take little solace in the previous two meetings being draws, but history tells us that Aberdeen will be strong favourites for all three points. Team news: Aberdeen are still without Dante Polvara and Papa Gueye but have flourished without them, thanks to the resurgent form of wantaway forward Duk. Dundee are still without influential defender Joe Shaughnessy. The club captain faces a fight to be fit before the end of the year after his severe knee injury. It’s the last fixture for either side before the international break as both teams look to build on previous league victories. It’s expected to be another packed-out Pittodrie and another that’ll be under the lights. Can Dundee cope with the atmosphere inside Pittodrie right now? Or will Aberdeen still have the nightmares of last week’s defeat in their heads? Predicted lineups: Aberdeen: Mitov; Devlin, Mackenzie, Molloy, Rubezic; Nilsen, Shinnie; Keskinen, Duk, McGrath; Sokler Dundee: McCracken; Astley, Portales, Robertson; Ingram, Cameron, Sylla, Larkeche; Palmer-Houlden, Adewumi; Murray

November 8, 2024

Findlay Set For Months on the Sidelines

Kilmarnock defender Stuart Findlay is facing months out of action after being stretchered off in their defeat away to Dundee on Sunday. The Ayrshire side were faced a hammer blow with Findlay, who is currently on an extended loan from English Championship side Oxford United, suffering severe ligament damage and having to be removed from the pitch after just half an hour. Kilmarnock were a goal to the good when Findlay was substituted and doubled their advantage through Matty Kennedy just before half time. Derek McInnes’ side would then go onto face a difficult second half with their opponents mounting a tremendous comeback to level the game before the hour mark. As the game fizzled out, the away side probably would have settled for a point but Dundee weren’t finished and in added time they found a winner through Ziyad Larkeche and the three points went to the Dark Blues at the Scot Foam Stadium. The Kilmarnock manager blamed switching off and a lack of desire towards the end of the game as the reasoning for not seeing it out but praised Tony Docherty’s men for their 2nd half performance: “There’s 30 seconds to go we should show inside when the ball is played forward and we don’t match Mulligan’s run. Credit Dundee they get bodies in the box at the death and Larkeche’s desire to get on the end of it and score was more than our desire to stop it.” On Findlay’s injury McInnes commented: “Thankfully, there is no dislocation or fracture. We are waiting for the results of the scan but he could be out for two, three or four months.” Kilmarnock play host to league leaders Celtic on Sunday where star man Danny Armstrong is also a doubt with a hamstring injury sustained against Dundee.

November 6, 2024

Exploring Celtic Park: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Glasgow’s Legendary Stadium

A Brief History of Celtic Park Celtic Park opened its doors in 1892, just four years after the club’s founding. The original site, however, wasn’t the current location – Celtic Park initially sat a short distance away but was quickly moved to accommodate the club’s rapid growth. Since then, it has become Scotland’s largest football stadium, boasting a capacity of just over 60,000, with a legacy steeped in football history and cultural significance. Over the years, Celtic Park has undergone significant renovations, reflecting the club’s ambition and desire to offer fans a world-class venue. One of the most transformative periods came in the 1990s, when major renovations were completed to expand the stadium’s capacity and modernise its facilities. This update was driven in part by UEFA regulations, which required clubs in European competitions to upgrade their stadiums for fan safety and comfort. During this time, the iconic North Stand was constructed, bringing the stadium to its current capacity. The most recent renovations have focused on enhancing the fan experience, with improved seating, updated facilities, and expanded hospitality options. Celtic Park also prides itself on being accessible, with dedicated sections for disabled supporters and state-of-the-art facilities to ensure all fans feel welcome. Celtic Park is a space where tradition and modernity converge, offering an unforgettable experience for fans and visitors alike. It’s a place of pilgrimage, not just for Celtic fans but for football enthusiasts worldwide, and continues to set the standard for football stadiums across Europe. Celtic Park, affectionately known as “Paradise” by fans, is one of Europe’s most revered football venues and a must-visit for football enthusiasts visiting Glasgow. Nestled in the East End of Glasgow, it’s a beacon of Scottish football history, drawing thousands of fans and tourists eager to experience its electric atmosphere, explore its rich heritage, and walk in the footsteps of Celtic greats. Whether you’re here for a game or a stadium tour, here’s everything you need to know about visiting this iconic ground. Getting to Celtic Park By Public Transport: The stadium is well-connected by public transport. The most straightforward route from Glasgow city centre is by train, with Dalmarnock Station and Bellgrove Station both within a 15-minute walk from the stadium. Services from Glasgow Central Station to Dalmarnock take around 10 minutes, and trains run frequently on matchdays, making it a smooth and efficient option. Alternatively, buses from the city centre, such as the 61, 62, or 240, drop fans off close to the stadium. By Car: For those driving, Celtic Park is accessible via the M8 motorway. There is limited parking near the stadium, and surrounding streets fill up quickly on matchdays. To avoid the hassle, some fans opt to park in the city centre and take a train or bus to the ground. Note that parking restrictions are in place during events, so planning ahead is advised. By Bicycle: For the eco-conscious or those looking to see more of Glasgow, cycling to Celtic Park is a great option. There are cycling paths that connect the stadium with the city centre, and bike racks are available near the entrance. Experiencing Matchday at Celtic Park Attending a Celtic match at Celtic Park is an experience like no other. The roar of the 60,000 fans singing “You’ll Never Walk Alone” is something that reverberates through the stadium and the surrounding area. Fans are passionate, and the atmosphere in Paradise is electrifying, particularly during league-defining games or European nights, where the stadium truly comes alive. For those looking to capture the full Celtic Park experience, key matches against rivals like Rangers are highly sought-after, offering an atmosphere that’s second to none. Best Times to Visit: The Scottish Premiership season runs from August through May, with fixtures every other weekend, typically on Saturdays or Sundays. While any game at Celtic Park is bound to be memorable, attending evening European matches offers an extra sense of magic. For a quieter experience, early weekday games or friendlies offer an equally exciting atmosphere, minus the intense crowds. Getting Tickets for Matches Celtic FC is one of the most popular clubs in the UK, so securing tickets for big matches, especially those against Rangers or during European competitions, can be a challenge. Tickets are available on Celtic’s official website, with priority given to season ticket holders. Membership packages are also available, granting early access to tickets and additional perks. For those unable to grab a ticket directly, hospitality packages offer an upscale matchday experience and are easier to secure, especially for high-demand games. Pricing and Availability: Match ticket prices vary depending on the competition and seating location within the stadium, ranging from £30 to £55 for standard tickets. European games and Old Firm matches tend to be pricier and require early booking. Celtic Park Stadium Tours When there’s no match scheduled, a stadium tour offers a behind-the-scenes look into the heart of Celtic Park. These tours are a brilliant way to experience the club’s rich history and access areas usually off-limits to the public, including the dressing rooms, pitchside, and the famous tunnel that’s seen countless players walk through it over the years. Tour Details: Tours last about an hour and a half, led by knowledgeable guides who are often lifelong fans, offering fascinating insights into the club’s history, from its founding in 1888 to its modern-day successes. Highlights include the Boardroom, where Celtic’s honours are proudly displayed, the dressing room, and pitchside, where you can step into the technical area and view the field from the manager’s perspective. Best Time for Tours: Tours run on non-matchdays, with several slots available daily. The quieter weekdays allow for a more intimate experience, while weekends can be busier with fans from all over the world. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak football season and around holidays, when the club welcomes fans from far and wide. Tips for a Memorable Visit Arrive Early: Matchdays at Celtic Park draw huge crowds. Arriving early lets you soak up the atmosphere,

November 5, 2024

Hibernian Heartbreak: Late Penalty Hands Dundee United a Draw

Hibernian were once again on the wrong end of a late goal as Dundee United profited from a Hibernian manager David Gray Hibernian were once again on the wrong end of a late goal as Dundee United profited from a a 90th minute penalty to leave Easter Road with a point a piece. A curling Lewis Miller header had put them in front before the half hour mark as he met a pinpoint Jordan Obita cross. Both full backs were lively during the game, with Obita causing problems down United’s right hand side. Hibs were in control for the majority of the game, looking assured in possession as Joe Newell looked to dictate the tempo. United took a more direct approach, Sam Dalby holding up the Hibernian centre backs well as the wide players looked to get in behind Obita and Miller. The opener seemed an apt reward for their attacking efforts but Hibernain were now tasked with holding onto a lead for over an hour. For fans of the Edinburgh side, the memories of conceding two late goals in the reverse fixture less than a month ago would have a brought a sense of déjà vu. Going into the second half, Jim Goodwin switched from his favoured back three to a four but his plans were soon hampered as substitute Kristijan Trapanovski suffered another hamstring setback and was forced off just twelve minutes after coming on. David Gray’s side had the lion’s share of chances but could not put the game to bed, Hyeokku Kwon unable to take advantage of United keeper Jack Walton straying too far off his line in. As full time approached, there was noticeable tension as Hibernian looked to avoid conceding yet another late goal. On the 86th minute those fears became reality as a penalty was awarded after Mykola Kukharevych’s shirt pull on Emmanuel Adegboyega in the box was caught by VAR. The Ukrainian was awarded his second yellow of the game before Sam Dalby dispatched the spot kick to draw United level. The result means Hibernian remain rooted at the foot of the table and are now winless in their last six games. Dundee United meanwhile leapfrog Motherwell into fourth, sitting only three points behind Rangers, albeit having played a game more than both. Groundhog day at Easter Road What do Kilmarnock, Dundee United and Hearts all have in common? This season, they have all taken points from Hibernian after the 85th minute. United have even done it twice in the past couple of weeks. Hibs fans will be wondering what it is they can do to remedy this habit of collapsing at the tail end of games. If there are any positives to be taken from another missed opportunity it is that they had been dominant up for the majority of the game, although that will do little to quell the anger in the stands. Junior Hoilett and Obita combined well to create chances with the latter getting the assist for his side and defensively, Marvin Ekpiteta led a backline that looked resolute until the penalty. Perhaps more difficult than planning how to break down a stubborn St. Mirren, David Gray will need to pick many heads up off the floor if they are to turn this season around. What the manager’s said Hibernian manager David Gray “I think if the first one’s a penalty then the second one’s a penalty, I thought the players had done enough to win the game. Did we create enough chances to go out win the game and kill the game off? Yes that’s the message to the players, of course it is. We need to be more clinical.” Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin “I don’t think the free kick should have been awarded albeit thereafter we need to switch on, they take it quickly, We made the changes at half time, it was nothing to do with the performance of Strain and Gallagher. We just had to make a change to try impose ourselves on Hibs a little bit higher up the park and I thought that paid off in the end.”

November 3, 2024

Rangers set up Old Firm League Cup Final in a second-half comeback win against Motherwell

An all-Glasgow clash of Celtic v Rangers is set for December 15th. The current holders Rangers earned themselves a place in the Scottish League Cup Final, as a double in the second half from Dessers and Bjarami was enough to see off the Steelmen. After a run of substandard results, Manager Philippe Clement’s team relieved some pressure on his job as they saw off a gritty performance from Stewart Kettlewell’s Motherwell side. With a total attendance of just over 37 thousand fans feelings on the current form and the state of the club were on full display as Rangers did not fill their full allocation at Hampden. A sign displayed by the Union Bears in the first half of the game stating ‘Park and Co. Time to Go”. A reference to the higher-ups in the club. After falling nine points behind both Celtic and Aberdeen in the league following the defeat in Pittodrie midweek. Fans were quick to point the finger at the manager, demanding change but more importantly a response today. For Motherwell, they went into this game in good form but missing key players. This gave teenage sensation Lennon Miller a chance to captain the side in a semi-final of a cup. A proud moment for the teenager and his family. The Ibrox side dominated the first half in terms of possession and had plenty of opportunities to open the scoring with chances from Cerny who looked the most dangerous player on the park. Lawrence, Barron and Dessers all had chances too, the latter who probably should have had two to his name with a poor effort going wide and straight at the keeper. Despite having plenty of shots it was mostly tame efforts shot right at Motherwell stopper Oxborogh. Despite poor ball retention and having very little of the ball, Motherwell broke the deadlock and opened the scoring from their first attempt on goal. In the 25th minute, Andy Halliday got on the end of a terrific cross floated into the box by Steve Seddon as he slotted the ball past Jack Butland. He opted not to celebrate his first goal for the Steelmen against his former side whom he made over 100 appearances. The sound of boos from the Rangers fans and jubilation from Motherwell rung out around the National stadium as the whistle went to signify halftime. The Gers were the first team out of the tunnel after the break as they looked to get themselves back into the tie. It didn’t take long for Rangers to respond as in the 49th minute Cyriel Dessers put his poor efforts from the first half aside as he confidently put the ball in the back of the net. This breaks his 8-game goalless streak, with his last goal coming in the last round of this tournament back on September 21st. Despite Motherwell having more of the ball in this half compared to the opening 45, Rangers continued knocking on the door with wingers Cerny and Bajrami causing all kinds of problems for Motherwell. In the 81st minute Man of the Match, Cerny played a superb pass through to Bajrami whose deflected shot fired the Gers into the lead for the first time in the game. Motherwell’s defence showed great resilience for most of the game today despite missing some key players in Captain Paul McGinn and Vice-Captain Stephen O’Donnell. However, Bajrami’s goal was enough to send the Ibrox side through to the final six weeks from today. Winger Vaclav Cerny led an inspired performance today as for 90 minutes he caused problem after problem for the Steelmen. Despite general negative feelings around Rangers at the moment you have to say he has remained the one shining light for the fans. Regarding his current form, he downplayed it insisting the overall result was more important. He said: “The most important thing is that today we got to the final and the fact I could help is always a good feeling.”. Throughout the match, Rangers adopted a possession-driven game utilising their wingers and overlapping fullbacks playing constant balls into the box as well as plenty of shots from central midfielders outside the box. Motherwell for the duration of the match chose to sit in and play long balls over the Rangers back line to forwards as well as waiting for counter-attacking opportunities. After the match, Motherwell Manager Stewart Kettlewell was complimentary of his players today. He said: “We’ve had a good start to the season, so I’m not going to sit here and criticise the players because when you see them slumped to their knees at the end that wasn’t a disappointment, that was exhaustion. They poured so much in, and I can’t ask any more from them” They now turn their attention back to the league where they currently sit in fifth place just three points off Rangers. They face St. Johnstone at home. Rangers will be back in European action on Thursday when they travel to Greece to take on Olympiacos in what will prove to be quite a hostile atmosphere. To this a delighted Manager Philippe Clement said: “It’s a nice place to go. It’s always hot there, because of the sun but also because of the fans.” He also said: “It’s a team with a lot of physical qualities and technical qualities, they’re attacking-minded. So, we need to play a really big game there to get points.” Credit must be given to both sides in what was a cagey affair at the National Stadium today. Motherwell were solid in their shape and defensively despite being without some usual starting players and just fell short in the end. 18-year-old Lennon Miller did not look out of place as captain. Rangers answered critics and despite going in behind at the break they kept pushing for a much-needed win. They now give their players and fans a final to look forward to and a chance to win the first available silverware of the season. Motherwell: Oxborough, Kaleta, (Blaney 75’), Casey, Gordon, Balmer, Seddon, (Sparrow 56’), Halliday, Miller

November 3, 2024

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