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.
