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Livingston put the pressure on Falkirk with a dominant win over Ayr United

Venue: Home of The Set Fare Arena Date: 18/4/2025 Time: 19:45 A strong performance from Livingston saw them stroll passed Ayr United, and apply pressure to league leaders Falkirk in the race for promotion. Three first-half goals pretty much cemented Livingstons’ win and guaranteed them at least second place. With just one win in five, Ayr United looked to be on the hunt for three big points in this race for second. Three points would take them just two points behind Livingston with just two games to go. However, a win away at Livingston will be hard to come by as they are undefeated here in their last five. In what was a frantic start, Livingston opened the scoring just six minutes in. A Stephen Kelly strike from the edge of the box took a deflection when headed goalbound, leaving Harry Stone no chance at saving it. The goal did not settle the game; in fact, it had the opposite effect. Ayr continued to battle, and Livingston struggled to keep hold of the ball, providing half-chances at both ends of the park. It was once again Livingston providing the attacking threat. After some good link-up play between Cristian Montano and Robbie Muirhead played the ball was played through to Kelly, who once again had an effort at goal. This time, the shot was saved by Stone. 30 minutes had passed, and the game was yet to settle down, with neither team managing to take control or create consistent chances. Livingston continued to have the better attacking threat since they scored. However, they were yet to double their lead. However, in the 31st minute, Livingston were awarded a penalty after Stone clattered into Montano. After a slight delay, Muirhead put his penalty down the centre of the goal, watching on as Stone dived to his right. Just before the half-time whistle, Kelly added another to his account. After a long throw into the area, the ball bobbled out to the edge of the box, and Kelly was the man to meet it with a thunderous half-volley into the bottom right corner. An impressive start for the Lions saw them grow in confidence as the half went on. Livingston went into half-time three goals to the good, looking likely to secure second in their race for promotion. A triple substitution for Ayr saw Jamie Murphy, Cole McKinnon, and Patrick Reading make way for Jake Hastie, Dylan Watret and Lenny Agbaire in an attempt to salvage something in the second half for the away team. 60 minutes had passed, and Ayr started to grow into the match a little. They created a couple of half-chances and dominated most of the ball. However, they were yet to find the net. Livingstons’ first chance of the half came in the 64th minute, after a Daniel Finlayson cross was poorly cleared, Scott Pittman managed to get on the end of it. However, the shot was blocked. Ryan McGowan received a yellow card in the 69th minute after a clumsy tackle on McAllister just inside his half. A massive chance came Livingstons’ way in the 71st minute, after Kellys’ perfect corner to the back post was met by Finlayson. However, he sent his volley well wide of the post in a chance that was harder to miss. In the 80th minute, Livingston added another to their tally. A great team goal saw Montano tap the ball in at the back post. A great performance from the Lions was made even better as they strolled past Ayr to add the fourth goal of the game. As if four goals weren’t enough, Reece McAlear added a fifth for Livingston. The ball dropped to him on the edge of the box in the 91st minute, and he caught a volley as sweet as you like, rifling it into the bottom corner. The full-time whistle couldn’t have come quick enough for Ayr United as they were played off the park by Livingston. Lineups: Livingston: J.Prior, R.McGowan, S.Pittman(R.MaCalear), S.Kelly, R.Fraser, J.Brandon(D.Finlayson), L.Smith(A.Shinnie), R.Muirhead(T.Yengi), M.Tait, C.Montano(S.May), D.Wilson Subs: J.Hamilton, M.Clarke, R.McAlear, T.Yengi, S.May, D.Finlayson, M.Ubochioma, M.Nottingham, A.Shinnie Manager: D.Martindale Ayr United: H.Stone, N.McAllister, P.Reading(D.Watret), G.Oakley, C.McLennan(M.Rus), G.Stranger, J.Murphy(L.Agbaire), J.Henderson, M.McKenzie, S.McMann, C.McKinnon(J.Hastie) Subs: R.Mutch, F.Musonda, J.Hastie, M.Rus, L.Agbaire, D.Watret Manager: S.Brown Referee: Steven McLean Attendance: 1,606 Managers comments: Martindale: “First half was really, really good, I felt, and then we managed the second half. We had a lot of chances with the game, I think the surface was really quick tonight, which really helped us with a couple of the goals” Brown: “We bottled finishing second place, I take full responsibility… that’s on me. We’ve got to get that mentality into the lads… how to win games, when you come away from home, you’ve got to be horrible.”

April 19, 2025

Rangers Set for Summer Overhaul as 49ers Enterprises Prepare to Back Six New Signings

Rangers Set for Summer Overhaul as 49ers Enterprises Prepare to Back Six New Signings Rangers are preparing for a major summer rebuild, with 49ers Enterprises ready to inject significant funds into the squad in an effort to close the gap on Scottish Premiership leaders Celtic, sources have revealed to Football Insider. The Ibrox side managed to cling to slim title hopes thanks to a dramatic 96th-minute equaliser from Ianis Hagi at Pittodrie on Sunday, denying Celtic the chance to seal the league with five games remaining. But with Rangers now trailing their Old Firm rivals by 15 points and holding a significantly inferior goal difference, any realistic shot at reclaiming the title this season is all but gone. Plans are already in motion for a transformative summer under the incoming ownership of 49ers Enterprises. According to sources close to the club, the American investment group intends to back the arrival of at least six new signings to kickstart a new era at Ibrox. Permanent Deals for Loan Stars on the Table With several players currently on loan, including Vaclav Cerny, Rafael Fernandes, and Oscar Cortes, Rangers are expected to push for permanent deals—particularly prioritising a move for Wolfsburg winger Cerny, who has been one of the standout performers this season. It remains to be seen whether these loan deals will be included within the six new signings or come in addition to them, but the intention from 49ers Enterprises is clear: build a squad capable of matching Celtic stride for stride next season. Managerial Decision Looms Before any transfer business can truly ramp up, a decision must be made on the managerial front. Rangers legend Barry Ferguson is currently in interim charge, but Football Insider has reported that he is unlikely to be offered the role on a permanent basis. Once a new manager is appointed, 49ers Enterprises are expected to provide immediate financial backing in the transfer market, with an emphasis on high-impact signings. The goal is to not just add depth, but to bring in players who can change the course of a season. Eyeing Ambitious Moves The American owners understand the scale of the challenge ahead. Bridging the gap to Celtic will require bold moves—both in management and recruitment. Speculation has even emerged over potential interest in prising Scotland international Greg Taylor away from Parkhead, a move that would certainly send shockwaves through Scottish football. For Rangers supporters, this summer represents a turning point. With new investment, a new manager, and a squad refresh on the cards, the pressure is on for the club to hit the ground running. 49ers Enterprises have made their intentions clear: the days of settling for second are numbered.

April 15, 2025

SPFL Weekly: Five Talking Points

Rangers’ second-half performance saves Barry Ferguson’s embarrassment, Hibbies go 14 games unbeaten and Hearts move into top six. There was also a debut home win for new ‘Well boss Michael Wimmer, St Johnstone closes the gap at the bottom, and Celtic win emphatically in unconvincing display. Here’s our round-up of the big talking points from Matchday 28 in the 2024/25 SPFL season. AvenGERS thrust into blockbuster action A heroic second-half performance saw the Light Blues come from two goals down to defeat Killie 4-2. The script replicated a typical superhero blockbuster with the protagonist struggling against a grave threat, only to overcome it in the picture’s second half. Cyriel Dessers was the hero who saved Barry Ferguson, the man chosen as Phillipe Clement’s successor on Monday. Dessers’ two decisive goals carried the Light Blues into the lead to give the interim manager his first SPFL victory. Throughout the first half, Ranger’s defence was terrorized by Kilmarnock’s front two, Bobby Wales and Marley Watkins, prompting Ferguson to make the bold decision to hook French centre-back Clinton Nsiala after just 30 minutes. A goal from Vaclav Cerny ten minutes before half-time gave them hope, and the team talk from boss Captain Hamilton must have helped rally the gang as his team put on a gritty and determined performance in the second half. A tired Kilmarnock ran out of steam as the game wore on, and the Glasgow side only grew in confidence. Ferguson’s team must continue to perform to close the 13-point gap on Celtic. Is there a Hollywood ending in sight, or is it too little or too late? All eyes will be on this weekend’s sequel as Motherwell visits Ibrox. Unbe-Leith-able! Hibs march on Hibernian extended their unbeaten run to 14 matches after late goals from Kieron Bowie and Junior Hoilett, which gave them a dramatic 3-1 victory at Tannadice. Their goals came after Dundee United had a second-half leader disallowed for handball in the second half following a lengthy VAR check. Jim Goodwin was incensed by the decision, but referee Dermot Gallagher on Sky Sports’ Ref Watch agreed with the VAR’s decision that Sam Dalby headed the ball onto his arm. The positive vibes continue to build in Leith following the announcement that they have signed Aberdeen’s Jamie McGrath on a pre-contract deal, and Hibs owner plans to make £7m donation to cover club losses. Wimmer feels at home Michael Wimmer experienced his first taste of victory on his Fir Park debut following his arrival last week. Attendance last night was at 4,258, and the home fans would have been excited to see how their new boss got their team playing. However, it was set pieces where they looked most dangerous. Defender Dan Casey scored the two goals to stop the Lanarkshire side’s rot, leading them to their first win in eight matches. The game also saw a landmark for ‘Well midfielder Callum Slattery, who made his 100th appearance for the Steelmen, with his first appearance coming against Annan Athletic just over four years ago. The visitors, Dundee, will now look over their shoulder as they have now lost five games in a row, leaving them three points off bottom spot. Jammin’ Jambos into top six Hearts fought a challenging game, coming from behind to beat St Mirren 3-1, which saw them leapfrog the Paisley side. Victory has taken them into the top six for the first time since August. 17-year-old James Wilson got the equaliser and won man of the match, amusingly posing post-match with a bottle of rum that his parents probably don’t want him drinking. The goal that put the Jambos ahead at Tynecastle was by Calem Nieuwenhof, who was making his first start in almost a year. Hearts manager Neil Critchley told BBC Sport after the game: “It was a really tough game. I didn’t think we were at our best, but we’re finding ways to win games. “We weren’t clean or efficient in our play. I wouldn’t say sloppiness but not our usual selves on the ball. But moments went for us, and we showed real grit and resilience.” Hearts now have eight wins in their last 10 in all competitions. Their next game? Hibernian at Easter Road on Sunday. Saints close the gap St Johnstone’s 1-0 victory over top-six hopefuls Ross County significantly boosts their fight for Premiership survival. Only 3 points now separate them and Dundee, who are above them in the play-off relegation spot with 10 games left to play. Fans at McDiarmid Park will feel better about themselves after the win following back-to-back defeats. Mackenzie Kirk’s close-range finish was the decisive goal that, despite a slim scoreline, was a thoroughly deserved result. County ‘keeper Jordan Amissah put in an inspired performance to keep the Saints at bay and the scoreline respectable. Saints Manager Simo Valakari told BBC Sport about the importance of the result: “It was a big win. This match was our most must-win game for our hopes for the rest of the season.” “I’m most happy with how the players performed in this high-pressure game.” County came into this with four wins from their previous five away league games. Their fans were hopeful of the top six but now will have one eye on what’s happening behind them as they still are worryingly close to the relegation play-off spot. League Table

February 27, 2025

Manchester Mourns Scot’s Legend Denis Law in Emotional Farewell

Manchester, February 11, 2025 – The city of Manchester came to a standstill on a somber Tuesday as thousands gathered to pay their final respects to football icon Denis Law. Under grey skies and intermittent rain, fans, former teammates, and football greats united in grief to celebrate the life and legacy of the man affectionately known as “The King.” The funeral procession began at Old Trafford at 13:10, the stadium where Law cemented his status as one of Manchester United’s all-time greats. As the cortege paused at the iconic Trinity Statue, a hushed silence fell over the crowd, broken only by the whispers of shared memories. Supporters, many clad in vintage scarves and jerseys, stood shoulder to shoulder, honoring the man who had given them so many unforgettable moments. The service at Manchester Cathedral commenced at 14:00, drawing a host of football legends. Sir Alex Ferguson, a close friend and compatriot, delivered a heartfelt eulogy, capturing Law’s essence both as a player and as a person. Among the mourners was Sir Kenny Dalglish, another Scottish football legend, highlighting the immense impact Law had on the game. Law’s rise from humble beginnings in Aberdeen to becoming one of football’s most revered figures is a story of dedication and brilliance. Between 1962 and 1973, he scored 237 goals in 404 appearances for Manchester United, making him the club’s third all-time leading scorer. His achievements earned him the Ballon d’Or in 1964, a feat no other Scotsman has matched. More than just statistics, Law’s passion and charisma made him a beloved figure worldwide. His partnership with George Best and Sir Bobby Charlton in the famed “Holy Trinity” propelled Manchester United to domestic and European success. The Trinity Statue outside Old Trafford remains a permanent tribute to their contributions to the sport. As the service concluded, the stirring sounds of “Flower of Scotland” filled the cathedral, a poignant homage to Law’s deep connection to his roots. Outside, the rain-soaked streets bore witness to an overwhelming outpouring of love and respect, as a city united in mourning yet grateful for his extraordinary legacy. Denis Law’s impact on football is immeasurable. His memory will live on, not just in record books, but in the hearts of those who watched him play, those who knew him personally, and the generations inspired by his greatness. As fans slowly dispersed into the misty evening, the spirit of “The King” remained, ensuring his reign in football history will never be forgotten.

February 11, 2025

MATCHDAY PREVIEW – Ross County v Hibs

Ross County are looking to put Scottish Cup disappointment behind them as they welcome the League’s in-form team, Hibernian to a blustery Dingwall this afternoon. The Hosts The Staggies lost out to a dramatic 120th winner last weekend as Championship side Livingston dumped them out of the Scottish Cup. Prior to the 4-1 defeat to Celtic, Don Cowie’s side were quietly putting an impressive string of results together. A dramatic draw with Hearts whilst after going more than a year without an away win, County made it three on the bounce with wins at Kilmarnock, Aberdeen and Dundee. The issue has been in defence for Cowie, with the Staggies boasting the second-worst defence in the league, shipping 42 goals so far. Ross County currently sits in 10th place, just a point above Hearts in 11th whilst four behind 6th-place Hibs. The Visitors David Gray is hoping to continue a run that has seen them propel up the table. Whilst fans had relegation on their mind in November, a 3-3 draw with Aberdeen has kick-started their season and now those fans are dreaming of European football next term. They eased into the next round of the Scottish Cup with a comfortable 3-0 win against Clydebank last weekend. In their last eight league games, they’ve picked up seven wins, including the Edinburgh Derby at Tynecastle on Boxing Day as well as a thrilling 3-3 draw to Rangers. Hibs were struggling at both ends of the pitch at the early start of the season, but a switch to a back three and Jordan Smith replacing Josef Bursik in goals has made a real difference at the back. The form of Nicky Cadden and Martin Boyle has revitalised the Hibs attack, the Australian in particular has been scoring for fun as of late. Team News Ross County: Don Cowie is unable to play Nohan Kenneh against his parent club. Michee Efete, Ryan Leak, Alex Samuel, Ross Laidlaw, Eli Campbell and Will Nightingale are all sidelined. Dylan Smith has been recalled from his loan at Arbroath and could feature. Hibs: Nicky Cadden is set to return but will be playing with a protective mask after breaking his nose. Joe Newell, Elie Youan and Marvin Ekpiteta are all sidelined. Kieron Bowie should feature after making his return from injury last weekend. Previous meetings Ross County rued defensive errors as Hibs came from behind to win a 3-1 battle at Easter Road back in December, goals coming from Dwight Gayle, Elie Youan and Josh Campbell. These two last met in Dingwall back on a cold Wednesday night in October, which can only be described as the most drab fixture you’d ever have laid your eyes on. That game finished 0-0 with very little to separate the sides.

January 25, 2025

Hibernian 3-1 Motherwell: Player ratings from Easter Road

Nectar Triantis ran the show as Stephen O’Donnell struggled wearing the armband. Hibernian (3-4-1-2) Jordan Smith Little do before being beaten by the free kick. 6 Jack Iredale Looked untroubled until his needless foul outside the box allowed Motherwell back into the game. 6 Rocky Bushiri Confident on the ball and strong in the tackle. Enjoyed a relatively quiet night. On his way to cult hero status in Leith. 7 Warren O’Hara Like his partners at the back was solid at the back and kept a close eye on Maswanhise, keeping the forward who was brought on to shake things up quiet. 7 Nicky Cadden The talisman took an early knock to the face leaving a bit of blood. Brought off before he could really make an impact. n/a Dylan Levitt Solid on return to the team. Looks to be doing the things asked of him by the manager. Clearly blowing by the time he was brought off on the hour mark. 7 Nectar Triantis Couple of wayward passes but ran the game from the middle of the park. Strong interception followed by a lovely finish capped off a fine evening. 8 Chris Cadden Found space down the right early but nobody to meet the crosses. Won his duels with Sparrow. 7 Josh Campbell Pulled up his shorts in anger after wasting a good attacking opportunity. Like the other two, kept things simple which was what the game required. 7 Dwight Gayle Looks every bit the experienced player his CV suggests but frustrated by like of chances created for him. No doubt he will know the three points come first. 6 Martin Boyle (capt) Good position for opener with a cool, calm and collected penalty for the second. A player reborn in recent weeks now with four goals from his last two games. 8 SUBSTITUTES: Jordan Obita (for N. Cadden 19′) Difficult job in replacing Cadden but did very well. Assist for the first and defended resolutely in unfamiliar role 8; Lewis Miller (for C. Cadden 62′) Strong in the air and combined well with Hoilett 7; Junior Hoilett (for Gayle 62′) Kept Motherwell defenders on back foot to see out game 7; Hyeokku Kwon (for Levitt 62′) Brought the energy required maintain control of the game without having too much work to do 7; Nathan Moriah-Welsh (for J. Campbell 77′) Had little time to make an impact but no errors is all you can ask for at that stage 6; Motherwell (3-5-1-1) Archie Mair Not an ideal debut but as was not at fault for any of the goals. Will hope for a more positive outing after the first 24 hours of his time at the club. 6 Shane Blaney The yellow card he earned showed just how on the ropes Motherwell were before the break. 5 Kofi Balmer Hardly a frenetic game but struggled when it counted. 5 Paul McGinn Composed presence until head injury forced him off early on. 6 Ewan Wilson Sloppy in possession and at fault for the second goal. Hooked at the break. 4 Kai Andrews Added a bit of dynamism on the ball but like teammates, lacked bravery going forward. 5 Andy Halliday Game passed him by. Taken off with Wilson at half-time. 4 Tom Sparrow A few runs down the left but was easily contained. Looked more dangerous when cutting in but did not try it enough. 5 Stephen O’Donnell Captain in the absence of Lennon Miller. Did not step up to the plate. Gave away penalty that killed the game and had little to no impact going forward. 4 Tony Watt Not the most potent goalscorer but tries to use physicality to occupy defenders. Should have done better with the two headers he put over the bar. 5 Jack Vale Not much you can do when starved of the ball but ended the game with a straight red as the game had seconds to go. Punishing an already threadbare squad even further. 4 SUBSTITUTES: Dan Casey (for McGinn 33′) Struggled to command the backline in place of captain 5; Tawanda Maswanhise (for Halliday 46′) Showed flashes of what has made him one of the side’s best but couldn’t get into gear 5; Marvin Kaleta (for E. Wilson 46′) Had a half to make an impact but hardly saw the ball 5; Callum Slattery (for Sparrow 70′) Fantastic free-kick and had some impetus going forward at least 7; Moses Ebiye (for Watt 70′) No league goal since September and didn’t look like to end the drought tonight 5.

January 12, 2025

Celtic v Rangers – The League Cup Final’s KEY Areas

With the biggest sporting fixture in UK sports mere hours away, we look at the key battles across the park in today’s League Cup Final. The Maeda Problem In what is arguably Phillipe Clement’s biggest headache ahead of today’s fixture is who he starts at right back. Daizen Maeda has tortured Rangers captain James Tavernier in past fixtures constantly. The Japanese star is constantly looked to in this fixture, with Tavernier seemingly unable to cope with Maeda’s electrifying pace. Tavernier had been dropped by Clement in weeks prior, Sterling had been given the nod, and it had seemed that the Rangers legend was maybe on his way out of the club. An injury to Sterling has changed all that however, Tavernier has come back into the side, and his form has skyrocketed. The captain has been chipping in with goals and assists and was excellent in the Europa League on Thursday night against Tottenham. I argue this is largely irrelevant. Tavernier has been in good form going into an Old Firm before, but the result always ends the same. He has consistently not fared well against Maeda. It is not just on the ball but off it, too. Tavernier likes time and likes to see a pass, Maeda gives him none of that. He is key to the Celtic press, and he does not give Tavernier a moment to be effective. It was Maeda who nicked the ball off Tavernier at Ibrox to help fire Celtic into an early lead. In my opinion, this is Clements’s biggest selection choice today. I believe he should be bold and start Sterling. Celtic will likely have most of the ball. Rangers need a solid shape out of possession, and Sterling should give them that. He is less attacking than Tavernier, who lets the attack worry about creating chances. However, when push comes to shove, I predict that Clement will stick with and put his faith in his captain. Prediction – Tavernier starts. Battle for the midfield Rangers are coming into this game largely as the underdogs, but if they can nullify the influence of Callum McGregor in the middle of the park, they give themselves every chance. Everything Celtic do comes through their captain. He picks the ball up in midfield, controls the tempo, and keeps the game ticking over with little five-yard passes that just moves the opposition around. Players have tried to press him in the past, but he knocks it around them and splits the lines into the midfield, with Hatate always looking to be an option. In past Old Firm games, Rangers have been unable to deal with the experienced midfielders’ influence in this fixture. Nicolas Raskin has been outstanding in recent games, and his performance on Thursday was the exact type Rangers will need if they’re to stop McGregor from inserting his influence. Raskin has had serious questions asked about his fitness for the majority of his time at the club. His ability has never been doubted, but his fitness issues have been a concern to supporters. On Thursday, he showed what Rangers fans expected of the Belgian, his intensity and work rate got the better of Premier League operators James Maddison and Rodrigo Bentancur. I would expect Rangers to set up similar to how they did against Spurs, with the same midfield two of Raskin and Diomande. This game is far too soon for Connor Barron; he is yet to show me anything he is worthy of a Rangers jersey personally. But I expect McGregor to lean on his experience and know-how in this fixture. I expect a frantic opening few minutes, and then McGregor will slowly drop five yards, start picking up the ball off the centre-backs and just slowly start dictating the play. For me, it is key that Rangers only let him play it side to side or backwards, they cannot allow Hatate or company time and space to turn and face the Rangers goal. If they can cut off McGregor’s passing lanes, they have a chance. Rejuvenated Rangers attack or CCV & Trusty excellence Hamza Igamane has been a revolution in the Rangers attack in recent weeks. His goals and work rate have been key in the Rangers uptick in form, now in pole position to overcome Aberdeen in second place. Alongside him, Vaclav Cerny put in a superb performance against Spurs on Thursday as he has started to replicate some of the form that was expected of him when he joined in the summer. Rangers have been a lot more free-flowing in recent weeks, with Clement seemingly finally finding a system that has unlocked the attacking talent at Ranger’s disposal. Dessers days seem to be numbered; he has only been making substitute appearances in recent weeks, with Clement opting for Danilo or Igamane through the middle. It would be harsh on Danilo to be dropped after his performances in recent weeks, but after the effective work of Jefte and Yilmaz on Thursday, it is now out of the question that Igamane starts today through the middle. In Celtic’s defence, however, they come up against Cameron Carter-Vickers and presumably Auston Trusty. The centre-back pairing has been key in Celtic’s defensive dominance this season, with Carter-Vickers by far and away the best centre-back in the league. Alistair Johnston is the one with a question mark hanging over his head. Taken off on Tuesday at half-time, it remains to be seen whether he is fit enough to start today. Arguably the best fullback in the league, he is one of the first names on the team sheet for Celtic. If he isn’t, Anthony Ralston is the natural replacement, and Rangers will have to hope their wingers can get more joy out of him and Greg Taylor than CCV or Trusty. Borussia Dortmund are effectively the only team to get the better of this defence, knocking seven past Celtic in Germany. Rangers will need to be at their very best if they hope to trouble

December 14, 2024

Rangers pick up a much needed 3 points in McDiarmid Park victory

Philippe Clement’s side came out on top in a narrow victory over St Johnstone Rangers headed into the game looking to build on their resounding win in the South of France on Thursday, with St Johnstone hoping to record back-to-back league victories at McDiarmid Park. Two changes for Rangers today following their 4-1 victory over Nice, with skipper James Tavernier replacing the injured Dujon Sterling and Ianis Hagi coming in for his first start for the club since May 2023, in place of Mohamed Diomande. Simo Valakari named the same XI that defeated Kilmarnock 1-0 last weekend. It was St Johnstone who started the brighter of the 2 sides in the opening exchanges. A great run by Sanders down the right-hand side nearly led to a chance for St Johnstone but the ball was cleared away from danger by Rangers. Rangers then began to get a foothold of possession and looked threatening whenever they got the ball forward. Cerny came close with an attempt from the edge of the box but the ball fizzed past the side netting. Rangers continued to probe and Bajrami had the best chance of the half, as the ball fell to him inside the 6 yard box but couldn’t sort his feet out quick enough. St Johnstone struggled to get any sort of possession in the first half but looked dangerous whenever they were able to get at Clements side. A failed offside trap by the Rangers defence allowed Kirk to race through on goal but Butland was able to save his attempt with relative ease. Half Time – St Johnstone 0-0 Rangers Philippe Clements half time team talk looked to have taken an effect on his men as Rangers started the second half promisingly. A couple of early efforts on goal were thwarted by the Saints keeper, including a good save to deny Tavernier from a free kick. Rangers finally found the breakthrough in the 63rd minute. A looping cross inside the box by Yilmaz was bundled home by Jason Holt just a few yards from his own goal, with Tavernier applying the pressure just behind him. Rangers continued to dominate and almost added a second through Danilo but Josh Rae was there again to keep the score at 0-1. There was only one team who looked like scoring the second, with St Johnstone unable to get out of their own half. Danilo missed a golden opportunity to wrap the game up late in the tie but fired the ball straight at the Saints keeper. Rangers stifled any potential St Johnstone threat in the dying embers of the game and held on for a comfortable victory. It was a much-needed win domestically for Phillipe Clement in a pressure easing week for the Rangers boss. It was only their second away win in the league this season. For St Johnstone, it wasn’t the result they were hoping for but there were some positives to take from the game for Valakari and he will be hoping his side can build on this performance against Aberdeen next weekend. St Johnstone – Rae (GK), Wright, Sanders, Mikulic, Raymond, Carey (Essel 46’), Sprangler (Sidibeh 66’ Mcpake 81’), Holt (Kucheriavyi 81’), Clark (C) (Neilson 58), Kirk, Kimpioka Rangers – Butland (GK), Tavernier (C), Souttar, Propper (Balogun 46’), Jefte (Danilo 58’), Barron, Raskin, Cerny (Dowell 86’), Bajrami (Yilmaz 46’), Hagi, Igamane (Diomande 76’) Attendance 7,446

December 1, 2024

Fraser Sees Red as Dundee United Run Out 2-0 Winners at Tannadice

With only two places separating the sides in the league, the first half lived up to expectations as an even contest. Saints will feel they had the better of the opening spell, and at the ten minute mark, Ellery Balcombe released Toyosi Olusanya with a pinpoint pass. The striker raced through and was wiped out by Jack Walton. The United goalkeepers’ blushes were spared as only a yellow card was presented. Dundee United grew into the game with runs from Glenn Middleton and Sam Dalby in particular, causing issues for the St Mirren back line. Frustrations were raised in the United dugout as Dalby was sent through on goal but blasted his effort well over the crossbar. A mix-up between Elvis Bwomono and Marcus Fraser resulted in an onrushing Will Ferry breaking through, and his effort came crashing off the post. This seemed to ignite the away side; their fans roared them on as they started to pile on the pressure. Efforts from Fraser and Scott Tanser flashed by the post, and if it wasn’t for a goal-line clearance from Tobi Adegboyega, Killian Phillips could have put his team ahead before the break. Half Time: Dundee United 0-0 St Mirren Jim Goodwin’s halftime team talk brought his team out fighting in the 2nd half. Middleton flashed an effort wide of the post after being picked out by ex-Buddie Ryan Strain, and United won their individual battles all over the pitch in the opening stages. A corner from captain David Babunski evaded everyone on its way just wide of the Saint’s back post before Holt made a late, unmarked run to the edge of the opposition box, but his effort was of no trouble to Balcombe. St Mirren started to gain a foothold in the half, and a defence-splitting pass from the ever-impressive Richard Taylor found Greg Kiltie, who laid the ball back to Olusanya. His shot required an expert save from Walton, who kept his side level. Both managers looked to their bench in similar fashion in search of a goal. Target men Mikael Mandron and Jonah Ayunga were brought on for the visitors. Louis Moult and van der Sande were brought on for the hosts. The changes had the opposite effect. Going two up front meant the Saint’s back line was under more pressure. Moult and van der Sande proved a difficult test for the resolute Buddies defence. Meanwhile, the away side couldn’t reverse their fate and struggled to create any clear-cut chances in the remaining minutes. Marcus Fraser had a final ten minutes to forget. The St Mirren vice-captain gave away a penalty in a collision with Kevin Holt. The United centre-back calmly converted, sending Balcombe the wrong way and put his side 1-0 to the good. Ten minutes later, it was Fraser again who hauled Moult to the ground, and Dundee United had their second penalty. A lengthy VAR check followed to the bemusement of the away support, and Matthew MacDermid made the decision to send Fraser off, and the visitors would end the match with 10 men. Balcombe guessed correctly and saved the resultant penalty from Holt, but hero became villain as he spilt the corner that followed and centre-back Adegboyega was able to bundle the ball home, scoring his second league goal against St Mirren this season. The Tangerines go level in third place, with Rangers looking ahead to a home tie against Kilmarnock in their next outing. St Mirren are also at home in their next Premiership game against Motherwell and will hope to get back to winning ways. Full Time: Dundee United 2 – St Mirren 0 Teams: Dundee United: Walton (GK), Strain, Holt, Ševelj, Babunski (C)(Thomson, 60”), Ferry, Middleton (van der Sande, 73”), Adegboyega, Stephenson, Dalby (Moult, 72”), Gallagher St Mirren: Balcombe (GK), Gogic, Taylor, Fraser, Tanser (John, 80”), Bwomono, O’Hara (C), Phillips, Kiltie (Idowu, 80”), McMenamin (Mandron, 64”), Olusanya (Ayunga, 74”) Referee: Matthew MacDermid Attendance: 8,868

November 30, 2024

Patrick Stewart Appointed as Rangers CEO

Rangers have announced Patrick Stewart as their new Chief Executive Officer. The former Manchester United executive will officially begin his role on December 16, one day after the club faces Celtic in the League Cup final. Stewart takes over from James Bisgrove, who departed in the summer to join a club in Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, the search for a permanent chairperson continues, with Malcolm Offord among the leading candidates to replace John Bennett, who stepped down earlier this season due to health reasons. Stewart brings a wealth of experience from his 18-year tenure at Manchester United, where he held several senior roles, including interim CEO. Rangers highlighted his diverse background, which includes negotiating contracts, co-leading the establishment of United’s women’s team, and serving in key roles within the FA, Premier League, and European Club Association. Additionally, Stewart has contributed to resolving international sports disputes as an arbitrator for the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Interim Chairman John Gilligan expressed his enthusiasm, stating: “On behalf of the Board, I’m delighted to welcome Patrick to the club as CEO. He comes with an excellent reputation and a proven track record, bringing over 20 years of top-level football experience. The Board is also in advanced discussions with several outstanding candidates for the Chairperson role, and we expect to make an announcement in the coming weeks.” Gilligan previously told Sky Sports News that appointing a CEO by Christmas was his priority and a “dream scenario.” His commitment to seeing the club through this transitional period remains steadfast.

November 25, 2024

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