Scottish Cup Archives

Scottish Football: A Broken System That Needs Fixing

Scottish football is in crisis. The league structure is outdated, TV deals are laughable, and youth development is stagnant. Fans are desperate for change, but the decision-makers continue to bury their heads in the sand. Joe Quinn, a former SPFL scout, has had enough. His proposal isn’t just a tweak to the system—it’s a complete overhaul. The question is, will Scottish football finally listen, or will self-interest and inaction win again? The Root of the Problem: A Game Run by Self-Preservation Scottish football is a closed shop. Quinn argues that change doesn’t happen because too many people in power benefit from keeping things exactly as they are. Whenever real reform is proposed, clubs and officials close ranks, protecting their own positions rather than the health of the game. Fans already know the issues: the league is predictable and stale, smaller clubs get a raw deal, Scottish talent is leaving in droves, and the women’s game is consistently underfunded and ignored. Quinn’s proposal isn’t just another discussion paper—it’s a radical blueprint to drag Scottish football into the modern era. But will those in charge finally step aside for progress? The 14-14-14 League Model: Genuine Reform or a New Coat of Paint? One of Quinn’s most controversial ideas is a 14-14-14 league structure designed to increase competition, fairness, and financial stability. The potential benefits are clear: fewer repetitive fixtures, proper promotion and relegation battles, and more clubs at the top level. On paper, it makes sense. But history tells us good ideas don’t always make it past the SPFL boardroom. Mid-table clubs happy with the status quo will fight this to the bitter end. The SPFL has a habit of discussing reform, only to back down when it matters most. Will this time be different? Ditching Gambling Sponsors: Ethical Stand or Financial Suicide? Scottish football is swimming in gambling sponsorships. Betting logos are plastered across shirts, advertising boards, and broadcasts. Quinn’s plan calls for an outright ban, following the example set by the English Premier League. The moral argument? Clear-cut. Gambling addiction destroys lives, and football shouldn’t be complicit in feeding the problem. The financial reality? A nightmare. Clubs, particularly those outside the Premiership, rely on gambling sponsorships to stay afloat. If the SPFL cuts ties with the industry, where does the replacement funding come from? Quinn believes it’s the right move in the long term, but without a clear financial alternative, this could cripple smaller clubs. The League Cup: Time to Stop the Snoozefest Quinn is clear on this: the League Cup group stage is a glorified pre-season exercise. Fans aren’t engaged, clubs don’t take it seriously, and the format is uninspiring. His solution? Scrap the groups, return to a straight knockout competition, and inject real jeopardy and excitement back into the tournament. It’s a simple, logical fix. Whether the SPFL will embrace it is another matter entirely. Youth Development & Women’s Football: Time for Real Investment Scottish football prides itself on producing top talent. But in reality, Quinn believes the system is failing young players. The best prospects leave Scotland at the first opportunity, the women’s game grows despite, not because of, governing body support, and clubs treat youth and women’s football as an afterthought rather than a priority. His proposal calls for real, sustained investment—not just PR soundbites and token gestures. If Scottish football wants a strong future, it has to stop relying on the accidental emergence of “golden generations.” TV Deals: Why Does Scotland Keep Selling Itself Short? Scottish football’s TV contracts are, frankly, embarrassing. Sky Sports cherry-picks matches and does the bare minimum to promote them, clubs earn a fraction of what smaller European leagues generate from broadcasting deals, and fans are either overcharged or locked out entirely. Quinn demands a more aggressive approach to negotiating TV rights. Germany and other European nations offer free-to-air matches. Why is Scotland still accepting scraps? According to Quinn, the SPFL’s usual excuse is “It’s the best deal we can get.” He disagrees. In his view, Scottish football’s leaders don’t fight hard enough for a better deal. Will Anything Actually Change? Scottish football has heard big ideas before. We’ve seen bold proposals, promising plans, and endless discussions. And yet, nothing changes. This time, though, the pressure is mounting. Fans are growing restless. The game is losing relevance. If the SPFL and SFA continue to ignore these problems, they risk losing an entire generation of supporters. So, will Quinn’s plan finally force real action? Or will it be another great idea destined to gather dust? Have Your Say Is Scottish football stuck in the past? Would you support these changes? Let us know in the comments or join the conversation on social media using #SNNSports

April 2, 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

Queen’s Park Deliver Historic Upset Against Rangers in Shocking Scottish Cup Tie

Queen’s Park Stun Rangers in Historic Ibrox Upset Scottish football witnessed one of its most astonishing cup shocks on Sunday as second-tier Queen’s Park pulled off a stunning 1-0 victory over Rangers at Ibrox, securing a Scottish Cup quarter-final place for the first time in over four decades. Dominance Without Reward For large spells, Rangers controlled possession, dictated the tempo, and carved out numerous opportunities. Yet, their superiority failed to translate into goals. The first half was a story of frustration, with the hosts going closest just before the break—a towering header crashing off the crossbar, a moment that summed up their evening. Queen’s Park, disciplined and resilient, absorbed the pressure, waiting for their opportunity. A Moment That Shook Ibrox That moment arrived in the 69th minute. Substitute Seb Drozd, introduced to add fresh energy, found himself in space at the edge of the box. One touch to steady himself, another to unleash a pinpoint strike. The ball skidded low past the outstretched Rangers keeper, rippling the net and sending the small but boisterous Queen’s Park contingent into raptures. Inside Ibrox, silence. Shock. Disbelief. Last-Minute Drama and a Heroic Save As Rangers pressed desperately for an equaliser, stoppage time delivered a twist worthy of the Scottish Cup. A clumsy challenge on Cyriel Dessers saw the referee point to the spot in the 97th minute. This was it—the chance to force extra time, to avoid humiliation. James Tavernier, Rangers’ captain and typically reliable from the spot, stepped up. Ibrox held its breath. Then, in a moment of pure goalkeeping brilliance, Queen’s Park’s Calum Ferrie flung himself to his left, fingertips pushing the ball around the post. The stadium gasped. The Queen’s Park bench erupted. The underdogs had held firm. Seconds later, the final whistle confirmed the unthinkable. A Defensive Masterclass Ferrie’s penalty heroics were just one part of a goalkeeping performance for the ages. Time and again, he denied Rangers, producing crucial stops from Mohamed Diomande and Václav Cerný, while Queen’s Park’s backline executed a defensive display of discipline and composure. Every block, every clearance, every moment of defiance was another step towards history. Reactions: Despair and Delight For Rangers boss Philippe Clement, the disappointment was clear. “We created more chances than in any game this season, but football is about finishing. We didn’t do that—not even with a penalty in the final minute. The fans are right to be angry. We all are.” On the other side, Queen’s Park manager Callum Davidson beamed with pride. “We had a game plan—to frustrate them, to stay compact, and to take our moment when it came. The boys executed it perfectly. This is what makes the Scottish Cup special.” What This Means for Both Clubs For Rangers, this defeat will sting. Another missed opportunity for silverware, another night of frustration. Their failure to break down a determined opponent and the nerve-shredding penalty miss will prompt serious questions. For Queen’s Park, this was more than just a cup win. It was a moment of history. A reminder of the magic of the competition. A victory that will be spoken about for generations. As the floodlights dimmed at Ibrox, the scenes told their own story—Rangers trudging off, heads bowed, while Queen’s Park’s players and fans embraced a night they will never forget. Because this, after all, is what football is all about.

February 9, 2025

Livingston Cruise Into Scottish Cup Quarter-Finals with Convincing Win Over Cove

Championship side Livingston booked their place in the Scottish Cup quarter-finals with a 3-0 victory over third-tier Cove Rangers, thanks to goals from Ryan McGowan and substitute Tete Yengi. McGowan opened the scoring from close range, reacting quickest to turn in Reece McAlear’s free-kick for his first goal of the season. Adelaide-born Yengi then took centre stage, twice finding the bottom right corner to take his tally for the campaign to six. Cove, managed by Paul Hartley, were aiming to reach the last eight for the first time in their history, but they will rue missed opportunities. Jerome Prior denied Findlay Marshall with a smart save, while Will Gillingham sent a header narrowly wide. The visitors also came agonisingly close when 11-goal striker Mitch Megginson clipped the outside of the post with a 20-yard effort. Experience was in no short supply across both sides. Livingston’s Stevie May has twice lifted the Scottish Cup with St Johnstone, while defensive duo McGowan and Danny Wilson have previously triumphed with Hearts and Rangers. Cove, meanwhile, had cup-winning pedigree in Hartley, who tasted success with Hearts and Celtic, and captain Fraser Fyvie, a Scottish Cup winner with Hibernian after earlier lifting the FA Cup with Wigan. Fyvie had one of Cove’s best openings, but his strike was straight at Prior after a well-worked corner routine. At the other end, Cove’s goalkeeper Nick Suman produced an outstanding stop to deny Dan Finlayson’s powerful header, but he could do little about Yengi’s ruthless finishing. The striker’s first came from Wilson’s knockdown, while Lewis Smith set him up for his second to seal the win. What They Said Livingston manager David Martindale: “Three goals and a clean sheet is maybe a bit harsh on Cove, who had their chances. We deserved to go through, but 3-0 flatters us a little. The lads showed great energy and intensity after a tough eight days—I’ve given them Monday off, they’ve earned it.” Cove Rangers manager Paul Hartley: “We created some excellent chances but just weren’t clinical enough. The boys gave it everything, and I can’t fault the effort. Of course, we’re disappointed to be out, but I was pleased with the performance. Now our focus shifts to the league—we’ve got 14 games to make something happen.”

February 9, 2025

Maeda Hits Milestone as Celtic Cruise into Scottish Cup Quarter-Finals

Daizen Maeda reached a landmark 50 goals for Celtic with a stunning hat-trick, propelling the reigning champions into the Scottish Cup quarter-finals with a dominant 5-0 victory over Raith Rovers. Brendan Rodgers made sweeping changes to his starting XI, introducing nine fresh faces, but there was no disruption to Celtic’s momentum as they stretched their unbeaten home streak to 32 matches—just one shy of Gordon Strachan’s 2007 record. Luke McCowan and Yang Hyun-Jun added second-half goals to put Celtic firmly in control before Maeda capped off his treble with a late finish, courtesy of a pinpoint McCowan assist. The Japanese forward had already netted twice before the break, extinguishing any hopes Raith had of an upset. With 21 goals this season and six in his last three outings, Maeda is proving to be a prolific force in attack—stepping up impressively in the absence of compatriot Kyogo Furuhashi. Raith might have faced an even steeper challenge had Callum McGregor’s early strike not rattled the junction of the post and bar. Maeda also saw a first-half effort ruled out for offside after converting Anthony Ralston’s cross. With a massive Champions League clash against Bayern Munich looming on Wednesday, Rodgers rested key players, including Alistair Johnston, Cameron Carter-Vickers, and Auston Trusty. Kasper Schmeichel also sat out, allowing Viljami Sinisalo to make his debut between the posts. Despite the changes, Celtic maintained their relentless form, having now netted 14 times in their last three matches and 110 across the season. It was a ruthless lesson for Barry Robson’s Raith, who had hoped to reach the break trailing by just a single goal before Maeda’s late first-half strike left them with a mountain to climb. Celtic can now turn their attention to welcoming Harry Kane and Bayern Munich, though they’ll have to do so without Maeda, who is suspended for the first leg. What They Said Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers: “Games like this can be tricky if the attitude isn’t right, no matter how much talent you have. Huge credit to the players for their work rate and performance from the first whistle.” Raith Rovers manager Barry Robson: “The boys gave everything—they left nothing out there. I can’t ask for more than that. What they will take away is the experience of facing truly top-class players.”

February 9, 2025

Dundee put drubbings behind them to waltz past Airdrie into Scottish Cup Quarter-Finals

Dundee made amends for their consecutive six goal defeats by dishing out a comprehensive 4-0 thrashing of their own to Championship strugglers Airdrie. Forcing the visitors back early on, Lyall Cameron’s corner put a clear header on a platter for Clark Robertson who butted the ball past Kieran Wright to break the deadlock after thirteen minutes. Airdrie looked for a way back into the game but their efforts were undone by some sloppiness in possession, MacDonald’s pass back to the keeper intercepted by Scott Tiffoney who squared the ball to Tiffoney who smashed home his side’s second. Tiffoney’s impressive afternoon continued with a defence splitting pass to unleash Oluwaseun Adewumi in the opposition box before the player on loan from Burnley produced a cute finish to extend his side’s lead. With just minutes to go until the break, a lapse in concentration was again on display. This time Dean McMaster was caught doddling in possession as Airdrie looked to play out from the back but saw his pocket picked by Simon Murray who put Cameron in for a brace to all but confirm Dundee’s progression to the next round. The warnings had been visible for all to see in the early exchanges, Tiffoney unable to take advantage of McMaster’s earlier carelessness but the midfielder could only fire low and wide. Often Rhys McCabe’s side were kept from an even greater drubbing by some handy goalkeeping from Wright, who denied Murray from point blank range in the second half. Airdrie’s chances were not forthcoming as they struggled to get numbers forward and often wasting the opportunities when they did come. Lewis McGrattan guilty of not even forcing a dive from Jon McCracken with a low shot straight into the keeper’s arms. McMaster, who endured a torrid time at Dens Park, found himself in space outside the box and, although McCracken was forced into a good save, could have done more with the time offered to him. Having dipped in energy after the break, the game roared into life when Adam Frizzell saw his curling free-kick rattle the crossbar. The captain would be halted again, this time by a McCracken returning to the starting line-up after a long absence, denying Frizzell what looked a certain goal with a brilliant save from point blank. Seconds later Dundee came agonisingly close, Murray hitting the bar himself after some good work to control the ball. More to follow … Line-Ups: Dundee: McCracken, Portales, C. Robertson, Donnelly, Larkeche (Samuels 71), Cameron (Sylla 71), McGhee (F. Robertson 72), Mulligan , Adewumi (Lopez 61), Murray (c), Tiffoney Unused subs: Carson, Astley, Garza, Shaughnessy Booked: Cameron (59), Robertson (64) Goals: Robertson (13), Cameron (25, 44), Adewumi (40) Airdrie: Wright, Bruce (Hancock 66), Graham, Watson, MacDonald, McMaster (Armstrong 57), Frizzell (c), Wilson (Cooper 80), McGrattan (McGregor 57), Mochrie (McStravick 66) Unused subs: Bannon, Duffy, Hutton Booked: MacDonald (87) Referee: Euan Anderson Attendance: 4,335

February 8, 2025

No Excuses: Aberdeen Manager Jimmy Thelin Demands Change Amid Winless Streak

Manager Jimmy Thelin has dismissed any notion that Aberdeen are making excuses for their recent poor form, insisting that no one is hiding behind explanations. Following a 2-0 defeat to Hibernian that extended their winless league streak to 14 games, the Swede emphasized that his recent hard-hitting criticisms have sparked a strong response from his players. A Call for Accountability “We have to give more,” — Jimmy Thelin Speaking after the Hibs game, Thelin stressed that while constant reminders aren’t always necessary, sometimes players inherently know when they’re not performing at their best. He continued: Self-awareness is Key: “When you’re in a difficult period, it can be challenging to break out of it. But I feel the energy is here now, and everyone is looking forward to making a change.” Immediate Improvement Needed: “It was vital to see that change in our game. We can’t continue like this—we have to improve immediately.” Looking Ahead With an upcoming Scottish Cup clash against Dunfermline Athletic on Sunday, Thelin is focused on turning the tide. Despite a league victory drought since early November, Aberdeen sit fourth in the table. However, their offensive challenges are clear—they have failed to score in their last five Premiership matches. Thelin remains optimistic about their cup run and potential league improvement: Cup Focus & League Ambitions: “We’re still in the cup and have a shot at third place, so that’s where our focus should be.” Reflection and Action: “This is our chance—let’s push forward rather than dwell on the past. We know what needs to be done, and our recent performances simply haven’t met that standard.” Strategic Reinforcements In a bid to revitalize the squad both in the short and long term, Aberdeen have made significant moves in the January transfer window. Among the new signings are: Mats Knoester – Defender from Ferencváros Oday Dabbagh – Palestinian striker from Charleroi These acquisitions bring the total number of January recruits to five. Thelin remarked: “It was a good window for us. Everyone worked incredibly hard to find the best solutions. We’re not just rebuilding for the future; we’re also adding quality to meet our immediate objectives.” Final Thoughts With renewed energy on the training pitch and strategic reinforcements bolstering the squad, Aberdeen are determined to reverse their fortunes. Manager Jimmy Thelin’s firm stance on accountability and his commitment to immediate change underscore the club’s resolve to end their winless streak and return to winning ways.

February 6, 2025

Defending champions Rangers host Spartans in SWF Scottish Cup Quarter-finals

After easing past Montrose 7-0, Rangers will host a Spartans side who trounced Kilmarnock 6-0. Last year’s finalists Hearts are rewarded for trouncing Falkirk 9-0 with the opportunity to welcome 9 time winners Glasgow City. City edged past Celtic 3-2 at the weekend. SWPL 2’s Boroughmuir Thistle will take on Motherwell after earning a well deserved victory of Premiership side Dundee United. Motherwell meanwhile made light work of Bonyrigg Rose with a 6-0 thumping. In the fourth and final clash will see Aberdeen, 3-0 victors against Hamilton Accies travel to St Johnstone, themselves coming out 4-2 winners to knock out Elgin City. The games will all be played on the 9th of March.

February 3, 2025

Dundee 1 Dundee United 0: Player Ratings from Dens Park

Simon Murray was a pitbull incarnate as Emmanuel Adegboyega struggled under the bright lights of Dens Park. Dundee Trevor Carson (c) Hardly tested in the first half before putting in a monster shift in the second. Some good clearing punches but above all else made fantastic saves to secure side’s progression. 8 Ethan Ingram Played slightly more defensive than he has in previous outings. Poor pass stunted counter attack but more than made up for it by blocking a certain goal. Booked late on for a tactical foul. 6 Clark Robertson Imperious in the air and put his body on the line time and time again. 7 Ryan Astley The searching long balls kept coming to him but he never switched off. Had an almighty task dealing with Dalby but handled it with distinction. 8 Aaron Donnelly Another strong outing for the man now in his second spell with the club. Only point of contention would be his slightly wayward clearances towards the end as he looked slightly nervy. 7 Lyall Cameron Could only manage a few weeks because of illness last week but was exactly what Jim Goodwin wished he in the first half. Dynamic with a talent for progressive the ball up the park. Blasted an effort over the bar and his passing got worse as his energy faded. 7 Cesar Garza Looks a fish in water with this Dundee side. Neat short passing and tidy in possession. 7 Mo Sylla Always puts in a defensive shift and had one particularly excellent moment as he tracked back furiously to deny United a clear cut opportunity. 7 Oluwaseun Adewumi Defending players lift onto their toes like ballerinas when Adewumi such is the fear that he’ll turn them inside out. However the loanee had one of his quieter games in recent weeks with few chances. 6 Simon Murray Apart from score, press and run his body into the ground, what does he actually do? A nightmare for defenders with some old school dark arts and a goal to boot, not a bad night. 8 SUBSTITUTES: Seb Palmer-Houlden (for Adewumi 66) 6; Imari Samuels (for Garza 83) 6. Dundee United Jack Walton One goal conceded and that was it for the keeper. Had little to do after that. 5 Emmanuel Adegboyega Struggled in the attacking link up with Strain down the right hand side. Poor passing was loudly booed as the defender endured a torrid night. 3 Ross Graham Had trouble with the ball at his feet. Missed a sitter with a headed effort well over the bar. Lacked a bit of composure. 5 Declan Gallagher Good clearance early on to deny Adewumi and has his hands full with Murray for the rest of the night. 6 Kevin Holt Fired an effort over the bar and another straight into Carson when the situation required a cooler head. 5 Ryan Strain Struggled to connect with Adegboyega down the right despite the space being available. Looked far more dangerous after the break but couldn’t help muster anything. 5 Luca Stephenson Spend too much time looking sideways and backwards when the ball needed to go forwards in the first half. 5 Vicko Sevelj Guilty of the same lack of bravery as Stephenson and looked poor with the ball at his feet. Blasted a shot well over and had a goal denied by the whistle. 4 Will Ferry Difficulties in defence but was much improved as time passed. 5 Louis Moult Found himself comfortably tucked away in the pocket of Dundee’s defence. A missed header was as close as he got. 4 Sam Dalby Held up the ball well but no one came to collect. Had an effort denied by Carson but disappointing outing overall. 5 SUBSTITUTES: Glenn Middleton (for Adegboyega 71) 5; Kristijan Trapanovski (for Strain 71) Had one effort rattle the post 6; Ruari Paton (for Moult 71) Brought energy, looks a smart signing 6; Jort van der Sande (for Gallagher 84) n/a.

January 21, 2025

Scottish Cup

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