SPFL Archives - Page 3 of 19

Livingston 1-1 St Mirren: A Point Apiece For Two Strugglers In The Scottish Premiership

Livingston and St Mirren played out a 1-1 draw at the Home of the Set Fare Arena, a point that is massive for both teams as they look to avoid relegation. Livingston came into this one off the back of three defeats and two draws in their last five, with their last result being a valuable point against Rangers. Livingston were bottom of the table with 13 points from 28 games and without a win in 26 league games. St Mirren had lost three and won two of their last five, however were dismantled 5-0 at home to Motherwell in their last match, they sat in 10th place with 23 points from 27 games as they look to avoid any relegation battles. Livingston made just one change coming into this one, as Cristian Montano who was sent off against Rangers last week was replaced by Babacar Fati. Stephen Robinson made six changes to the team that lost to Motherwell as Richard King, Declan John, Jacob Devaney, Roland Idowu, Conor McMenamin and Jake Young were replaced by Jayden Richardson, Scott Tanser, Mikael Mandron, Dan Nlundulu, Marcus Fraser and Keanu Baccus. The First real change fell to Livingston as they countered after a good run by Lewis Smith and his cross was almost perfect but Scott Pittman wasn’t able to convert St Mirren were quick to get a chance of their own as Jaden Richardson connected to a great cross but it was knocked onto the crossbar by Livingston keeper Jerome Prior. St Mirren would have another shot at goal through KIllian Phillips but Brooklyn Kabongalo took one in the face to stop his team conceding. Just after the quarter hour mark, Livingston struggled to play out from the back presenting a chance to Mikael Mandron but his shot went over the bar. Livingston would get another chance just before 20 minutes as a misread of the situation by Marcus Fraser allowed the ball to bounce to Robbie Muirhead but he rushed the shot and it went over the bar. Mark O’Hara was next to try his luck for St MIrren, as his looping shot bounced off the top of the net, as it had Prior backtracking. Livingston would fashion another chance for themselves down the left hand side eventually ending a shot by Pittman but it was wide. Marvin Bartley’s team would get another soon after, Smith again looking threatening and his powerful shot was well saved by St Mirren keeper Shamal George. As we approached half-time the deadlock was broken as Dan Nlundulu’s header from a Mikael Mandron cross was floated into the corner of the goal past Prior, that was his fourth of the season. St Mirren threatened from a corner early on in the second half with Phillips and Nlundulu having shots that were blocked by the Livingston defenders. Stephen Robinson’s team got quickfire double chances from both Mandron and Nlundulu, both were blocked by the scrambling Livingston defense. Another chance for St MIrren as this time it was Mark O’Hara who rifled a shot just wide of the goal after a cross was headered away. The game went into a lull where no team was really creating much, Livingston made subs to try and have an impact on the game but it was working as they wanted. Babacar Fati was able to get a shot away for Livingston but it wasn’t troubling George who watched it sail over. Livingston would get their equaliser as substitute Barrie McKay’s cross was headed in a similar fashion to Nlundulu in the first half by Kabongolo, it’s his second in two games after his strike opened the scoring last week against Rangers. Substitute Joel Nouble was able to get a shot away for Livingston but his shot went harmlessly over the bar. Livingston were the ones pushing to win the game. There were six minutes added. They had a few corners but just couldn’t find the magic touch that could win the game for them. There was then a fair bit of confusion as Mikael Mandron was injured and then substituted off before running back on the park and playing as a 12th man for around 30 seconds, he left the field of play and was booked. The game came to an end all square as the teams continue their fight to avoid relegation as remain in the league. Livingston’s next game is against Hibernian at Easter Road next Saturday which looks to be a tricky test for the team from West Lothian. As for St Mirren they have a much quicker turnaround as they play Dundee United on Tuesday night as they look to pull away from Kilmarnock who currently sit in the relegation play off. Livingston Jerome Prior, Babacar Fati, Ryan McGowan, Scott Pittman (Mo Sylla 86), Robbie Muirhead (Joel Nouble 68), Lewis Smith (Barrie McKay 59), Daniel Finlayson, Emmanuel Danso (Jeremy Bokila 59) , Brooklyn Kabongolo, Macaulay Tait, Danny Wilson. St Mirren Shamal George, Jayden Richardson, Scott Tanser, Mark O’Hara, Mikael Mandron, Alex Gogic, Dan Nlundulu, Miguel Freckleton, Marcus Fraser, Keanu Baccus, Killian Phillips.

February 28, 2026

Scottish Football Restructuring Proposal Aims to Modernise the National Game

A comprehensive new proposal to restructure Scottish football has been launched by supporter and former SPFL scout Joe Quinn to modernise the game, improve competitiveness, and strengthen its long-term commercial and sporting future. The proposal, which has already generated early discussion across sections of the Scottish football community, outlines a long-term vision to improve league structure, financial sustainability, youth development, women’s football, supporter engagement, and broadcast value. Joe Quinn believes that Scottish football is at a crossroads and must act now to avoid falling behind comparable European leagues. “Scottish football has an incredible history, passionate supporters, and strong community foundations, but the current structure risks holding the game back. This proposal is about creating a more competitive, modern, and entertaining product that can grow both domestically and internationally.” Key Proposals Include: A 14-14-14 League Structure A redesigned league system aimed at improving competitiveness, reducing repetitive fixtures, and strengthening promotion and relegation pathways across the pyramid. Enhanced Pyramid and National League System A stronger link between the SPFL and lower tiers to improve access, sustainability, and long-term development of clubs. League Cup Reform The current group stage would be replaced with a knockout format to increase excitement, competitiveness, and fan engagement. Improved TV Rights and Commercial Strategy The proposal calls for a more strategic approach to broadcasting, including Friday and Monday night matches and greater visibility for lower divisions. The proposal argues that Scottish football’s current TV deals are undervalued and that a stronger structure would justify increased investment. Ethical Sponsorship and Long-Term Growth The plan encourages a shift toward responsible, non-gambling sponsorship that aligns with modern football teams’ values and supports long-term sustainability. Youth Development Reform A national Under-18 and Under-21 league structure to strengthen pathways and retain talent in Scotland. Women’s Football Development A structured, competitive pyramid designed to grow the women’s game and increase visibility and standards. Supporter Engagement and Transparency Creation of a national supporter body, the Fans Collective of Scottish Football (FCSF), to improve communication, fan representation, and collaboration across clubs. National Team Vision The proposal also outlines a vision for both the men’s and women’s national teams to play selected matches across Scotland in cities and communities that do not regularly host international football, while keeping Hampden Park as the primary home. This approach is designed to boost local economies, increase grassroots engagement, and inspire the next generation of players and supporters. Driving National Conversation “This isn’t about criticism or division. It’s about starting a constructive national conversation. Scottish football belongs to everyone, and meaningful change will only happen if we work together.” The proposal is intended as a discussion platform and roadmap for future reform rather than a fixed solution. Media Opportunities Joe Quinn is available for interviews, radio and TV discussions, podcasts, and feature articles. Contact: Joe Quinn Email: joseph.a.quinn@hotmail.co.uk Mobile: 07967 213586

February 24, 2026

SNN Journalist’s Scottish Premiership Predictions

With the Scottish Premiership coming to a crucial point at the top of the table, our team made predictions for who they think will lift the trophy come May League Winners Rhys Livingstone: Rangers This has been the most exciting season in Scotland for as long as I can remember, but I do feel Rangers just have that extra bit about them in comparison to Celtic and Hearts. If Röhl keeps playing two strikers and the Ibrox crowd continue to get behind the team, I feel like that could be the difference maker for the title. However, domestically Celtic keep finding a way, and with the experience of Martin O’ Neill and new arrival Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, you can never disregard the current champions. Craig Baigrie: Rangers It’s a difficult one because there’s strong, genuine arguments for all three. However, Rangers’ performances of late have been stronger than Hearts and Celtic, Hearts are just waiting for Devlin and Shankland to return but I think they might drop too many before then. Then Celtic have really struggled to in recent weeks scraping wins in last minute. Just Martin O’Neill being there makes Celtic stronger but in higher pressure games I fear for them, and they have a packed schedule with Europe and the Cup. Cameron Caldwell: Celtic An unprecedented three‑horse title race will demand experience, and with four consecutive league titles behind them, Celtic may hold a slight edge. Martin O’Neill knows exactly what it takes to win in Scotland, and his January business has already injected fresh energy into the squad. The arrivals of Julian Araujo, Tomas Cvancara, Junior Adamu, and Alex Oxlade‑Chamberlain have each contributed to a surge of late goals. There is no question that Celtic still need to improve, but I believe they have the resilience to outlast McInnes’ spirited Hearts side and Danny Röhl’s resurgent Rangers. Liam Smith: Rangers I think Rangers will end up winning the league in this incredible title race as I don’t think Hearts will keep it up and manage to hold on until the end of the season and for Celtic, they haven’t done a great as we may have expected and Rangers are doing quite well to grind out results and have played quite well as of late after their really poor league start as well as getting big wins like they did against Hearts. It’ll be close but I see Rangers just edging it this season. Difference Maker Rhys Livingstone: January Signings I think the January signings on a whole has been a success for Rangers, and although it’s early days, the new boys have shown pieces of their qualities in recent matches. Rangers have spent a good bit of money in January, and it may be a key factor if they go on to win this title. But if I had to pick one player in general, I would choose Ryan Naderi, his presence has already brought positivity to the Rangers squad, and if him and Chermiti continue to play alongside each other, and he can keep finding the net like he done in Germany, it may be a concern for defences in the league. Craig Baigrie: Ryan Naderi I think if Rangers continue to play two strikers that’s what will make the biggest difference but Chermiti and Miovski have shown they can’t be trusted to score every week, Naderi had a good record in Germany if he starts to score like that here, he could be the striker Rangers need. Cameron Caldwell: Alex Oxlade‑Chamberlain The Englishman has quickly injected real quality into his early appearances for the Glasgow giants. A last‑minute winner against Livingston, followed by a composed second‑half showing at Rugby Park, suggests that despite his injury‑plagued past, he may yet bring much‑needed calm and control to the Celtic midfield, especially in light of Arne Engels’ recent injury. Liam Smith: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain The former Arsenal and Liverpool man has had a bright start to his time in Glasgow as it does look to be a positive signing as Celtic aim for the title. He brings good amounts of experience from his time down south which will help Celtic in many ways. With Engles’ injury and Reo Hatate not performing to standards expected, he should become a solid player in that Celtic midfield.

February 21, 2026

Never fall in love with a loan player

They are heroes in the present but not always for the future How vital are loan signings to Scottish clubs? There have been 68 loan signings in the Scottish Premiership so far this season, and a lot of these players have already made serious impacts for their clubs. So, here are some exciting loan prospects from different teams in the league, that may well make a difference as we approach an exciting part of the season. Filip Lissah of Falkirk has been a key part of John McGlynn’s side this year. The on-loan Swansea defender is a key asset for how Falkirk are performing in the league so far, and with talent in both the attacking and defending field, he may well be a main factor if Falkirk get top six this season. Julian Araujo has certainly cemented his place in Martin O’ Neill’s squad for the time being. The Bournemouth loanee showed his quality in Celtic’s recent match against Kilmarnock, scoring a last-minute winner to keep The Hoops deep in the mix of this title race. He has been a key factor of Celtic’s winning run domestically since O’ Neill was reintroduced. Mikey Moore has progressed well under Danny Rohl. Coming to Scotland with huge pressure at such a young age, the Rangers support have been able to see Moore’s quality in recent weeks. Although the numbers do not do much justice for the Spurs loanee, he has shown a real spark in this title-chasing Rangers side in many games. At Fir Park, Stephen Welsh has been immense in Jens Berthel Askou’s side so far this season, and this has been rewarded with the most clean sheets in the league at this moment in time. Returning to Celtic for a brief period in January, Askou and the rest of the Motherwell squad would have been delighted to see Welsh return to Motherwell for the rest of the season. And if he keeps up this brilliant form until the end of the season, he may well end up on that flight to North America for the World Cup come June. Jacob Devaney of St Mirren, who only joined on deadline day, has been a shining light in a challenging time for The Buddies. The Man United loanee has captained the U21 Red Devils on many occasions this year and has already brought that maturity into his spell in Paisley. As the season comes to crunch time, clubs across the country will be looking for some of their star players to shine. And with a lot of loanees in the league, it will be a wonderful opportunity for some of those players to show their quality to both parent and current club.

February 21, 2026

Title Charges, Cup Knockouts, and Future Stars: SPFL Breakdown Round 28

The Scottish Premiership returns for another crucial weekend of action, ahead of the six matchups – these are the main things to watch out for. Game of the Round – Hearts v Falkirk Derek McInnes will look to galvanise his league-leading side, as they attempt to bounce back from a thrilling Ibrox defeat. Standing in their way are Falkirk, the only side to taste victory at Tynecastle this season. The hosts’ lead has slipped to two points, but with a favourable pre-split fixture list, it feels now or never for their title credentials. McInnes is still missing key stalwarts Cammy Devlin and Lawrence Shankland, but a precious three points will put further pressure on the Glasgow giants, who both play on Sunday. Claudio Braga will likely lead the line; one of his eleven league goals was in the 2nd minute at the Falkirk Stadium in mid-December. The Gorgie faithful will hope their Portuguese star can deliver another key goal in the title race. Falkirk welcome Dundee United in the Scottish Cup shortly, and their penalty shootout victory over Hearts has helped pave the way to the quarter-final clash. John McGlynn’s side have enjoyed a flying start to their domestic season, sitting comfortably in the top six, and impressing the masses with their colourful football brand. The Bairns are too far back from the title race, but are in a battle for European football, as they attempt to chase down Hibernian in 5th place. Will Hearts resume their stellar season, or can Falkirk spoil the party once more? Team Spotlight – Motherwell Jens Berthel Askou was “very disappointed” to see his side crash out of the Scottish Cup, but the Steelmen must quickly pivot to Paisley for a crucial league clash with St Mirren. Despite the setback at Pittodrie, Motherwell have been stellar in the league; they currently sit in fourth place with a remarkably resilient record of just three defeats in twenty-six matches. While the media spotlight remains fixed on the traditional trio of Hearts, Rangers, and Celtic, the Fir Park faithful are quick to point out that they sit just seven points off the summit as the run-in approaches. Motherwell previously tasted knockout heartbreak with a 4-1 League Cup Semi-Final loss, but they proved their bounce-back ability by dispatching St Mirren 2-0 back in January. With cup distractions now firmly in the rearview mirror, a singular focus on the Premiership could transform an already impressive season into an unlikely title charge. Player to Watch – Owen Elding Hibernian may have lost Kieron Bowie for a club-record fee, but they look to have found a ready-made successor in a 19-year-old Irish sensation. Since arriving on Edinburgh’s shores, Owen Elding has wasted no time making an impact, netting his first goal in green during his full debut against St Mirren last Saturday. Excitement is rapidly building around the youngster’s potential and upward trajectory. The forward, who joined from Sligo Rovers in January following a prolific 12-goal season in the League of Ireland, was buzzing after his standout performance. “Obviously, there’s no better feeling than hitting the back of the net,” Elding remarked. “To do it on my first home start… there’s nothing more special.” As the Hibees prepare to visit Celtic Park this Sunday, Elding will be brimming with confidence. He’ll be hoping David Gray gives him the nod once more to lead the line on the big stage.

February 19, 2026

Title Deciders, Interims, and Champions League Winners: SPFL Breakdown Round 27

Another crucial weekend of Scottish Premiership football awaits. Ahead of the latest round, these are the main things to keep note of. Game of the Round – Rangers v Hearts Sunday’s showdown between the top two is set to have massive implications as the title race enters the home stretch. With Hearts currently holding a five-point lead over Rangers, a victory would stretch that gap to eight, marking only their second win at Ibrox since 2014. Derek McInnes’ side has occupied the top spot for nearly 20 weeks, and after Tomas Magnusson’s late Edinburgh Derby winner sparked further delirium in Gorgie, the Jambos continue to defy the odds. While Ibrox remains a daunting task for any visitor, a perfect record of five wins from five against the Old Firm this season means McInnes’ men will head west with the bit between their teeth. In the opposite dugout, Danny Rohl has significantly raised expectations since inheriting a Rangers side that trailed the leaders by 13 points. However, after hauling themselves back into contention with a nine-match unbeaten run, disjointed performances at Fir Park and Easter Road have left the Ibrox faithful questioning their title credentials. Rohl has conceded that Sunday’s meeting is “massive,” a result that could make or break their domestic season. For McInnes, the goal is simple, deliver a heavyweight blow that could finally knock Rangers out of the title race for good. Team Spotlight: Aberdeen Aberdeen have now spent 40 days in managerial limbo following Jimmy Thelin’s dismissal. With former assistant Tony Docherty arriving to bolster Peter Leven’s backroom staff, the Dons appear content to wait until the summer before confirming a permanent appointment. However, that patience is being tested on the pitch. Following consecutive postponements against Motherwell and Dundee United, Leven’s side has had a long two weeks to stew on their dismal 3-0 defeat at Rugby Park. Those cancellations, combined with Falkirk’s flying form, have left Aberdeen drifting, now 11 points adrift of the coveted top six. While Sunday’s trip to Fir Park looks daunting, time is rapidly running out to salvage their season. Before they resume their Scottish Cup defence next week, the question is, can Leven and Docherty galvanise this struggling squad and spark a late-season revival? Player to Watch: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain As Celtic toiled toward a disappointing draw against Livingston on Wednesday, Martin O’Neill scanned his bench for a spark of quality. He found it in Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, the former Champions League winner appeared to be the perfect option to break the deadlock. With Rangers leading against Motherwell, Celtic’s grip on the top two looked fragile. However, the former Liverpool and Arsenal midfielder wasted little time etching his name into Parkhead folklore. Picking up the ball on the edge of the area, he opened his body and whipped a devastating low strike past a rooted Jerome Prior, securing a vital three points and instant hero status. In such a tight title race, January reinforcements were always going to be the deciding factor for the frontrunners. While he may still be chasing match fitness and sharpness, Oxlade-Chamberlain could provide the catalyst Celtic need as they chase a fifth consecutive trophy. Next up, the champions face a revitalised Kilmarnock side. Having recently laboured to a narrow victory over Auchinleck Talbot on that same pitch, Celtic can expect a testing encounter. Whether starting or offering experience off the bench, Oxlade-Chamberlain’s ability to produce moments of individual brilliance could be the key cog that keeps this title challenge on track.

February 13, 2026

Derbies, Clean Sheets, and Wonderkids: SPFL Breakdown Round 26

With key games at the top and the bottom of the Scottish Premiership, these are the main things to watch out for across the latest round fixtures. Game of the Round – Motherwell v Rangers The focus may be on Tynecastle for the third Edinburgh Derby of the season, but Wednesday’s showdown between Motherwell and Rangers is an equally enticing prospect. Jens Berthel Askou has transformed the Steelmen this campaign, and their outstanding home form has been central to that resurgence. With just one defeat at Fir Park, eight consecutive home clean sheets, and only five goals conceded on their own ground, it’s clear why Danny Rohl’s Rangers must approach this fixture with caution. Rangers, alongside Hearts and Celtic, have shaped much of the title conversation this season. While Motherwell may struggle to keep pace with the top three over the long haul, Askou’s revitalised side remain difficult to dismiss. Rohl’s men arrive in formidable form, unbeaten in eight league matches and buoyed by 13 goals across their last two outings. The contrast between the current Rangers side and the one that laboured to a 1–1 draw at Fir Park under Russell Martin in August highlights the significant impact the German has made at Ibrox. Whether Motherwell can extend their remarkable home run, or Rangers continue their push toward the top of the Premiership, Wednesday night promises a gripping encounter. Team Spotlight – Hearts Derek McInnes’ side may have stumbled to a disappointing 1–0 defeat in Paisley last Tuesday, but derbies are often the perfect platform to reset and respond. With a table-topping showdown against Rangers looming on Sunday, McInnes will be desperate for his players to maintain their slender three‑point lead at the summit by overcoming their bitter Edinburgh rivals. Questions remain, however, over the Gorgie side’s discipline and depth. Hearts have received a red card in three of their last four matches, and they will once again be without key figures: Lawrence Shankland, Cammy Devlin, and the suspended Craig Halkett. Yet McInnes has instilled remarkable resilience in this group. They have led the title race for more than four months, remain unbeaten at home in the league, and have gone five matches without defeat against the Old Firm. Can they continue to channel this toughness once more on Tuesday, and keep their title push firmly on track ahead of a pivotal week? Player to Watch – Cameron Congreve The Dundee winger has repeatedly injected life into his side this season, contributing six assists and posing a constant threat, most recently during their gut‑wrenching League Cup defeat at Parkhead. Despite sitting 10th, Steven Pressley’s men have grown steadily in confidence, and with a game in hand over the two sides below them, their prospects of survival remain strong. As the campaign enters its decisive phase, the Swansea loanee is set to play a crucial role in Dundee’s fortunes. With key fixtures against Falkirk, Aberdeen, and Livingston on the horizon, his attacking influence will be pivotal in navigating the remaining five months of the season.

February 10, 2026

Gaps Plugged but is it Enough? – Rangers Transfer Window Review

Rangers had a fairly busy but certainly expensive January transfer window, spending £12million, more than any other club in the league. They’ve strengthened in areas that were needed and will hope that it will be enough to give them the boost towards the league title. Looking over the four players they did sign, you can evaluate their chances of hitting their target of a first league title since 2020/21. Tochi Chukwuani Chukwuani came to Rangers early in the window for around £3.5million, filling a pivotal part of the Rangers squad playing in the number six position. Nico Raskin had been filling in that part of the Rangers team, but with little success, and is clearly more suited to a number eight, box-to-box type of midfield role. Chukwuani can play that role much more efficiently, sweeping across the back line to cover gaps defensively, and he may prove invaluable during the run-in of the season. Tuur Rommens The Belgian U-21 international signed from Westerloo in the Belgian Pro League, managed by former Rangers coach Issame Charaï. Left back was another position Rangers were short in cover, as the only natural left back they had was Jayden Meghoma, and it’s not viable to expect to win a league with just one player for any position. As modern full-backs go, his real strengths come from attacking. However, Rommens, from his left back position, enjoys making runs into the inside left channel, something Rangers have been missing for a while. It adds another dimension to the Rangers’ attack that they can use to break stubborn defences down. Andreas Skov Olsen The Danish international winger has joined from Wolfsburg to a lot of fanfare. He was on fire at Club Brugge, but his move to Germany hasn’t worked out as he expected. Here you have a player who will be desperate to get his form back, not just for his new club but for his nation’s World Cup playoffs in March. A left-footed winger who can play on both wings but seems to prefer the right wing to cut inside and get shots away, he can beat players in 1v1 situations. He definitely can be a game-changer and is also the most exciting of the Rangers’ signings of this window. Ryan Naderi Rangers were left to sweat until the final minutes of the window to get Naderi in the door. It was of great importance for them to get a striker in as Bojan Miovski and Youssef Chermiti haven’t hit the goal-scoring heights needed to be the number nine Rangers require. Naderi has eight goals and four assists in 18 games for Hansa Rostock in the 3. Liga, the third tier of German football. Despite the seemingly low level he’s come from, you’d back fellow German and Rangers head coach Danny Röhl to know whether or not Naderi is worth the reported €5.5million (£4.7million) to bring him in now instead of in the summer, like Rostock were insisting. If he gets going, he could be pivotal if the Rangers are to win the league. This transfer window can be seen as a relative success. Being really picky, you’d maybe think Rangers are short of a creative midfielder, as Thelo Aasgaard has struggled to really prove himself so far, and a central defender, as injury-prone John Souttar, currently injured, Derek Cornelius and struggling Nasser Djiga could use extra help. However, the areas Rangers did strengthen were very necessary and should stand Rangers in good stead as the Scottish Premiership title race looks to be going to the wire.

February 6, 2026

Ibrox Rematch, Top Goalscorers, and Local Rivals: Scottish Cup 5th Round Breakdown

Sixteen teams remain in the Scottish Cup; here are the main points to watch out for this weekend. Game of the Round – Stenhousemuir v Falkirk Stenhousemuir face Falkirk on Sunday evening in a compelling meeting between two in‑form sides. Stenhousemuir sit joint‑top of League One and have lost only once in their last nine league matches, strengthened by their emphatic four‑goal win over Morton in the previous round that secured their place in the last 16. Matthew Aitken remains a key threat, having scored seven league goals, including a decisive double against Morton. The Ochilview outfit even lifted their first league title under Gary Naysmith’s guidance. Falkirk enter the fixture enjoying an equally impressive season. In their first top‑flight campaign in 15 years, they have established themselves comfortably in the top six and earned praise for their expansive style of play. Their penalty shootout victory over league leaders Hearts in the last round further highlighted their progress. Both teams approach the match with confidence, setting the stage for either a potential upset or another step forward for the Premiership side. Team Spotlight – Queens Park Scottish football is never short of drama, and Queen’s Park’s 4th Round journey delivered a similar shock. Stranraer originally thought they’d struck gold, defeating the Spiders on penalties to secure a massive 5th Round tie at Ibrox. However, the celebrations were short-lived; it emerged that stand-in keeper Lyndon Tas was ineligible, resulting in Stranraer’s disqualification. Now, Queen’s Park head to Ibrox for a 5th round rematch. Rangers fans may be nervous, and for good reason. Just 12 months ago, Philippe Clement’s side put in an abject performance as Seb Drozd’s 69th-minute winner etched his name into Scottish Cup folklore. Can the Spiders capitalise on this second chance and deliver another historic upset? Player to Watch – Tawanda Maswanhise Motherwell continue to fly under Jens Berthel Askou, sitting pretty in 4th and playing arguably the most attractive football in the country. With the Steelmen in peak form, fans are starting to dream of a first Scottish Cup triumph since 1991. Standing in their way of the quarter-finals is a managerless Aberdeen side. Askou has already tasted success against the Dons this season, knocking them out of the League Cup, and he’ll be leaning on the league’s top marksman to do it again. Tawanda Maswanhise is coming off a clinical brace against Livingston, and Saturday night under the lights is the perfect stage for the Zimbabwean to cement further his status as the league’s most dangerous man.

February 6, 2026

Transitions, Sporting Directors, and Premier League Loans: SPFL Breakdown Round 25

An intriguing midweek slate of Scottish Premiership football awaits. Here is what to watch out for across the next two days. Game of the Round – Aberdeen v Celtic The Scottish Champions travel to Pittodrie on Wednesday knowing there is little margin for error in an increasingly tense title race. Martin O’Neill’s second interim spell of the season has brought stability, with his side unbeaten in seven matches and securing a place in the Europa League knockout stage after a dominant win over Dutch side Utrecht. Bolstered by deadline‑day additions, striker Junior Adamu, winger Joel Mvuka, and centre‑back Benjamin Arthur, O’Neill will hope he has the tools to deliver a fifth consecutive league title. Aberdeen await, in far less convincing form. Saturday’s 3–0 defeat at Rugby Park has only deepened the uncertainty surrounding the club. Nearly a month has passed since Jimmy Thelin’s dismissal, yet the managerial search, led by sporting director Lutz Pfattinstiel, has still not produced a successor. Sitting five points adrift of the top six, time is running out for the Dons to salvage their season. With both teams navigating transitional periods, this Scottish Cup final rematch promises to be a fascinating encounter. Manager Spotlight – Marvin Bartley The former Queen of the South manager has taken over Davie Martindale’s long-term position at the Livingston helm, and faces the almighty task of halting a 24-match winless run. Sitting six points adrift at the foot of the table, points will be precious for the Lions, and Wednesday’s encounter against Falkirk may offer the best chance of ending the rut. Livingston’s sole victory this season was a 3-1 home win against the Bairns. The two sides produced a gripping championship title battle last season. Bartley will hope that his side can continue their nine-match unbeaten run against John McGlynn’s side, potentially springing them back into contention for survival. Player to Watch – Kai Andrews Hibs steadied a difficult two‑week run with a strong home performance against Rangers. Martin Boyle and Elie Youan both passed up golden opportunities, and David Gray will feel his side merited more than a single point. One of the standout performers on Sunday was Coventry loanee Kai Andrews. The midfielder, who previously featured for Motherwell, delivered an assured display after being introduced in the 10th minute for the injured Miguel Chaiwa. At just 19, he showed maturity beyond his years, going toe‑to‑toe with the likes of Nicolas Raskin and Thelo Aasgaard. Speaking at full‑time, Andrews expressed hope that a positive spell at Easter Road can strengthen his international prospects with Wales and potentially earn him a Premier League opportunity with high‑flying Coventry. Gray remains without midfield maestro Josh Mulligan, and with Dundee United visiting Easter Road, the manager may again turn to Andrews following his impressive debut outing. Hibs’ season hangs in the balance; they will need to chase down 4th-place Motherwell to have any chance of achieving back-to-back European campaigns. Could Andrews be the catalyst for the Hibees this season?

February 3, 2026

SPFL

Sponsors

Copyright © 2026 SNN Sports. All Rights Reserved.