Talking Points from Scottish Football

SCOTTISH PREMIERSHIP

KRIS BOYD IS GOING TO BE CRUCIAL FOR KILLIE

It’s been a summer of upheaval at Rugby Park. One energised performance against a tired Falkirk separated Kilmarnock and the Championship, and Lee Clark is keen on avoiding being put in the same situation again. 15 of those involved in the previous campaign have departed; 14 fresh faces have arrived. It’s a giant risk. As Killie fans are discovering, not all of those signings are going to succeed, and Clark still has to find his preferred line-up and formation. It was also a risk introducing so much youth – the eldest of the 14 signings is just 22-years-old. There’s a complete lack of experience in the squad. It’s up to Jamie MacDonald, Stevie Smith and Gary Dicker to help guide this untested team. It’s also up to Kris Boyd.

It looked like the veteran striker’s best performances might’ve been behind him. It’s been a couple of seasons since Boyd last enjoyed a fruitful campaign; when he notched 22 goals in 36 appearances in 2013-14. He laboured during a torrid spell at Rangers, and then returned to Killie to little success. He’d lost that golden touch. He looked lethargic, off the pace, devoid of confidence, and, though he’d never been the most active attacker, he had that clinical finish. Without that there was little reason in him starting games. But in the tail end of last season he began to make more telling contributions, even grabbing the final goal in Killie’s second-leg evisceration of Falkirk. That small return to form has carried over the summer, and it could be more important than ever.

Against his former club he started ahead of three teenagers, spearheading an attack consisting of himself, Adam Frizzell, Dean Hawkshaw, and Greg Kiltie. A couple of decent chances went amiss before he punished a lax Rangers defence. Kiltie fed him as he ran between Clint Hill and Rob Kiernan. The duo let him find space, and he selected a spot in the bottom right corner to place his shot. A simple fist pump celebrated the goal – his 250^th in British football. Later in the game, as the Bears chased three points, he provided a different sort of threat. He found himself increasingly isolated and relied upon to hold up the ball. He did so, until his legs let him down. A deserved standing ovation greeted his substitution in the 93^rd minute.

If Kilmarnock are to survive, Kris Boyd will need to produce a lot more performances like that.

 

BROPHY CAN BE THE GOALSCORER ACCIES NEED

It was one of the memorable scenes of the 15-16 season: Eamonn Brophy speeding past Nir Bitton before placing a cool effort through the legs of Craig Gordon. Parkhead grumbled as he charged off in delirium. One cannot fault the 20-year-old striker for celebrating such a goal – it wasn’t his fault his team were 8-1 down at the time. The strike marked his first goal for the Accies since making his debut in 2013. Since then he’d spent a productive spell on loan at Queen’s Park and a less successful one at Dumbarton. But the question remained: would he be another prodigy who shone at development level but failed to make the grade? This is the perfect time to find out.

Hamilton are in desperate need of goals. A late surge saved them from the threat of relegation for the second season running, and it’s likely they’ll be facing a similar battle at the end of this campaign. Accies notched just 42 goals in 38 games – less than Dundee United. Their top scorer, Carlton Morris, celebrated on just eight occasions, and his loan spell came to an end in the summer. It means Martin Canning has turned to Alexandre D’Acol to lead the line, even though the Brazilian failed to open his account despite making 16 appearances in the red and white stripes. Although he offers a physical presence up front and can hold up the ball for the likes of Ali Crawford and Dougie Imrie, D’Acol lacks the technical skills of a predatory striker. He’s not going to grab ten – or maybe even five – goals. Brophy might.

The young striker looked sharp when he came on against Ross County. Three times he got on the end of chances and threatened to give Hamilton a comfortable lead. Unfortunately, all three times he rushed his shots. There is the potential to be a good striker, though. Brophy looks quick and dangerous running into space, which is good for a team that won’t enjoy a majority of possession and might need to hit on the counter. If he can just keep cool under pressure, he could be a big success for Hamilton.

 

SCOTTISH CHAMPIONSHIP

HIBS CAN CHANGE IT UP

A common criticism of Alan Stubbs during his tenure at Easter Road was his stubborn resistance to alter his tactics despite teams learning to counteract them. Hibs became predictable. The diamond midfield, the pass orientated build up, the lack of crosses – there were no surprises on match day, and no second options. Stubbs didn’t have a back-up plan. That’s an issue Neil Lennon has sought to address.

Hibs are ruthless at the moment. That’s something that’s not been said about a Hibs team for years. But Lennon has instilled a refreshed sense of confidence in his side, and you can see the effects already. Jason Cummings, for example, looks back to his arrogant best – he’s a striker who’s fuelled on overconfidence. Lennon has also made Hibs a better-rounded team. There’s more than one way of playing; more than one route to penetrate an opposition box. Saturday’s performance exemplified this change.

All four goals came from headers. Fraser Fyvie delivered a tempting cross to the far post that evaded a host of opposition defenders to find Andrew Shinnie. The club’s summer acquisition made the slightest of touches to push it across the line. John McGinn assisted the second. His floated cross seemed destined for the hands of Derek Gaston but Grant Holt battled him for the ball and came out the stronger. Shinnie turned provider for the third. His sudden cross seemed to rebound off the head of Cummings. The potent striker then wrapped up proceedings with a stunning cross of his own. A 30-yard curling left-footed effort found the head of Brian Graham, who got above the defender to snatch a fourth. Note that all four crosses came from either strikers or central midfielders, and not the full-backs. Another positive change Lennon has made.

 

SCOTTISH LEAGUE TWO

FORFAR GOING FOR GOALS

15 months ago Forfar Athletic stood on the brink of the Championship. One horrible second-leg and a miserable campaign later and the Loons are in the fourth tier of Scottish football. However, that run of form has come to an end at the beginning of this season. Forfar are top of League 2, four points ahead of second place Arbroath – Dick Campbell’s Arbroath to be specific, and are on course to fight for automatic promotion. And they’re doing it in exciting fashion.

Those fortunate to have seen Forfar’s four league games so far will have witnessed a 3-2 victory against debutants Edinburgh City, a comeback in a 4-3 thriller with Cowdenbeath, a 2-1 win over Berwick Rangers, and a 3-2 defeat of Elgin City. Needless to say, goals haven’t been an issue. 19-year-old Josh Peters looks a revelation at this level. His three goals, spread out over three games, have proven to be crucial. His double against Aberdeen U20 also helped the Angus club into the next round of the Challenge Cup. Against Elgin, however, it was Thomas O’Brien’s double that sunk the club from Borough Briggs. It will come as no surprise, though, that Bollan sees fit to improve their defensive record. Forfar can’t count on late surges forever, and with Clyde and Arbroath among those chasing, it’s going to be a tight title fight this season. At least, at this rate, it’ll be an entertaining one.

Kilmarnock 1-1 Rangers

Rangers continued their stuttering start to the Premiership season with a one-all draw at Rugby Park.

The point increases the Gers’ lead at the top of the Premiership table, albeit with Celtic possessing two games in hand.

Killie, though, more than deserved a point from the game. It was the sort of performance that merited suggestions Lee Clark’s men could survive a dogged relegation battle for a second time.

The game also summarised the main criticisms of Mark Warburton’s side: an unbalanced midfield that lacks invention and yet seems to offer little protection to the defence, and a back-line that looks devoid of confidence, leadership and organisation.

The latter point stood out again when Kris Boyd scored his 250^th goal in British football. James Tavernier produced an outstanding free-kick to equalise, but the visitors couldn’t capitalise on Killie being reduced to ten men after Greg Taylor’s senseless lunge on Joey Barton yielded a red card.

A resilient performance meant the hosts held on to a memorable point.

Kilmarnock should’ve received a spot-kick minutes into the game; Kevin Clancy, however, ignored the protests of the hosts. Clint Hill – a late replacement for Danny Wilson, who suffered a knock during the warm up – turned his back on an effort from the edge of the D, the ball bouncing off his outstretched arm.

Ibrox’s already teetering injury table received another addition not long after: Joe Dodoo couldn’t recover from an early setback and departed on a stretcher. His removal, though, meant the travelling Rangers’ support received their first chance to see the club’s £1.5 million acquisition from Preston North End, Joe Garner.

It was a former striker, however, who looked to make an impact. Kris Boyd benefitted from having a trio of Greg Kiltie, Dean Hawkshaw, and Adam Frizzell behind him. The three attacking-minded teenagers possess the pace and athleticism the veteran lack; and their interchanging movement made them a constant source of danger.

He scuffed a couple of rushed opportunities. The lax Rangers’ defence should’ve heeded these warnings – Boyd wouldn’t miss a third chance.

Kiltie skipped past the hesitant Rangers midfield and threaded a through ball ahead of Boyd. The former Rangers striker hung on the edge of onside; a predator waiting to pounce. Clint Hill and Rob Kieran stood either side of him as Kiltie’s pass came through, yet Boyd soon found himself in a position to fire. He remained patient and picked out a spot in the bottom right corner; Wes Foderingham could do little to stop the ball reaching its intended target.

A rampaging run from James Tavernier threatened to undo Kilmarnock’s good work. Joe Garner held off his marker and knocked the ball to his side as the right-back came charging past. Tavernier burst through the Killie defence and wound back that thunderous left-boot. In the end the shot threatened those in attendance more so than Jamie MacDonald. A sigh of relief greeted the miskick from the hosts.

Half-time brought about a sight that has become familiar during Rangers’ short time back in the Premiership: a frustrated Mark Warburton trudging along the touchline. It marked the third time in four games that the Bears have been behind at half-time.

There were whistles and groans from the intimidating travelling support not long after the restart. Joe Garner tried to get the better of Willie Boyle but came off second best and fell to ground. His theatrical performance didn’t impress the one man whose opinion mattered; Kevin Clancy ignored the shouts and dismissed his claim. Rangers would have to do better than that to equalise.

And it doesn’t come better than a James Tavernier free-kick.

The ball rested 25-yards from the crouching figure of Jamie MacDonald – he wouldn’t catch sight of the ball until it was too late. The term ‘postage stamp’ doesn’t do the goal justice. The ball seemed to curl out and then in as it arced towards the top-right corner.

The momentum had switched: Rangers were in the ascendancy; Kilmarnock just needed to keep calm.

No one told Greg Taylor. The Killie midfielder charged at full pelt and planted his boot in the leg of Joey Barton. It might not have been malicious, but it was certainly extremely reckless. Barton was fortunate not to suffer a serious injury. Kevin Clancy showed no hesitation in pulling out the red card.

The final 20 minutes would be a backs-to-the-wall display from Kilmarnock.

It was a commendable performance from the determined Kilmarnock defence.

Jamie MacDonald produced some crucial stops to save a point for the hosts. He came up with an athletic save to push another dangerous James Tavernier free-kick around the post and tipped Barrie McKay’s misplaced cross over the crossbar.

Boyle and Jonathan Burn – filling in for the injured Miles Addison – did an excellent job keeping the Rangers attack quiet. The Gers snatched at chances as the game reached its thrilling conclusion.

Kilmarnock’s desperate attempts to clear their box often found blue shirts. Boyd offered a lone presence up front but looked bereft of energy, and he was given a deserved standing ovation when he came off late on.

Time ran out on Rangers’ desperate attempts to snatch a winner.

Talking Points from Scottish Football

PREMIERSHIP

RIGHT BACK STILL AN ISSUE FOR DUNDEE

The tribal nature of football fandom means we like to see ‘our own’ succeed. There’s a romanticism about the academy graduate breaking through the glass ceiling, establishing himself in the first-team; the feeling that the club is everything to them, like it is to us; that they get it in a way that imports don’t. It’s the idea that they once stood on the terraces, cheering the team on. We all dreamt of donning the club shirt, pretending to be the striker on the school fields, and this guy managed to do it. He’s a reflection of us. For Dundee supporters, that’s Cammy Kerr.

It’s a shame, then, that even they have come to the conclusion that he is not yet good enough to be Dundee’s starting right-back. Against Rangers he was picked apart regularly. Lee Wallace and Barrie McKay found numerous opportunities to get behind Kerr, including the former’s run to set up the second goal. Against Hamilton he fared little better. His mind-set is to attack; to attack the opposition and to attack the ball. There were numerous examples throughout the game of Kerr being caught too far up the park, and of centre-halfs being pulled out of position to cover the space in behind. It’s no surprise his best performances have come when used as a wing-back; there’s an extra centre-back to cover, and his defensive responsibilities are lessened. In a back four, however, he’s a weakness.

No one can doubt Kerr’s commitment or work-rate – as is often the case with home-grown defenders – but he sometimes fails to read the game and can’t work out when to attack and when to defend. Of course, this is not to say that Kerr can never been a good full-back. He still has the potential; he just needs to develop those skills. Dundee, though, are in need of a stronger option in that position.

 

WIDTH HAS TRANSFORMED CELTIC’S ATTACK

The transformation of Celtic has happened quicker than one could’ve expected. Over the summer, some were surprised that Brendan Rodgers had done so little to change the Hoops; limp performances had become the norm under Ronny Deila, and there was no reason to suspect that the club could progress through the Champions League qualification stages. But three league games into the campaign, and with Celtic on the brink of a return to European football, it’s clear the effect the former Liverpool manager has had on the club.

Sometimes one can see the potential of a club – a left-back here, a centre-mid there, and suddenly a team looks miles better. That’s been the case at Celtic. There were positives under Deila – the progression of Kieran Tierney, the development of Leigh Griffiths into an all-round striker, the loan signing of Patrick Roberts – but he never completed the puzzle. Rodgers has. That was clear against St Johnstone – at least in an attacking sense.

One simple, but effective, change Rodgers has made is the signing of Scott Sinclair. The former Swansea left-winger doesn’t just bring speed and penetration, but natural width that the Hoops have so often lacked. Before Deila brought in Roberts, Celtic couldn’t stretch an opposition defence. With James Forrest falling out of favour, counting those precious moments until his contract ran out, Deila often used the likes of Stuart Armstrong in those positions. The problem is that those central attacking midfielders want to drive through the centre, and one ends up with congestion on the edge of the box. It’s also much easier to defend. All of the attacking traffic is coming through one lane. The addition of Sinclair, the revitalisation of Forrest, and the loan of Roberts, has opened up all three lanes.

Celtic relied so much on Griffiths last season. That’s no longer the case. Forrest and Sinclair already have goals to their names, and Moussa Dembele offers a great threat coming off the bench. With the classy Tom Rogic occupying the central role, Celtic suddenly look a lot more dangerous. Champions League football should return to Parkhead within the week, and one would be shocked not to see Scott Brown lifting the title at the end of the season.

 

CHAMPIONSHIP

DOBBIE AND THE DOONHAMERS

There are signings that transform the outlook of a supporter. One such example is the return of Stephen Dobbie to Queen of the South. At the beginning of the season there was a sense of pessimism surrounding the Doonhamers: James Fowler had departed after a mixed tenure, the club had done little business to improve the squad, and there was a feeling that another lower mid-table season was on the cards. Then Dobbie came back. It’d been seven years since he departed for Swansea City, and in that time he’d turned up at seven different club, including a dismal stint at Bolton Wanderers last season. A situation like that can make one long for a familiar place. Palmerston is just that. And it feels like he never left.

His first start – against Hibs in the League Cup – produced a goal that began an astonishing comeback for the visitors – Grant Anderson and Lyndon Dykes scored late on to secure a memorable win for the Doonhamers. Then he tore Ayr United apart in his full league debut, combining with the orange-skinned Derek Lyle to guide them to a comfortable 4-1 win. He even managed to upstage Gary Harkins. But his best performance to date came at the weekend during a 2-0 win over Falkirk.

On 34 minutes he made his mark. Dykes drove through the Bairns defence, not one of whom were paying attention to the lurking veteran striker. A simple sideways pass found Dobbie on the edge of the D. With poise and elegance, Dobbie, not taking a touch to settle, used the inside of his right foot to pick out a spot in the bottom corner. A simple tap of the badge, a point to the crowd, and a sincere smile summed up his celebration. It wouldn’t be his last of the afternoon.

Again he sought out a quiet pocket of space, on the edge of the action, but not quite in it. Anderson’s cross found a huddle at the far post, with the ball then rolling into the path of Dobbie. He stunned Falkirk defenders tried to surround him. This time he took a couple of touches to settle, and then lifted it over the goalkeeper and off the crossbar. Another moment of genius. A lot of strikers can score; few make it look so effortless.

This could turn out to be the best signing in Scotland. One wouldn’t bet against the Doonhamers achieving another top four finish.

 

Talking Points from Scottish Football

PREMIERSHIP

LACK OF GOALS A CONCERN FOR ABERDEEN

There’s been a common criticism of Aberdeen over the past couple of seasons. It’s been said that the Dons are too reliant on the contribution of Adam Rooney, and that without his predatory instinct they’d labour in the search for a goal. Simon Church papered over the cracks in the latter stages of the last campaign, but it was clear that Aberdeen, if Derek McInnes was serious about furthering their title ambitions, needed more firepower up-front; someone to ease the pressure on the shoulders of the ginger-haired striker. That came in the form of Jayden Stockley, a striker in the Rooney mould, and the more mobile Miles Storey. Both offer options in attack. However, one wouldn’t have predicted that their inclusion would mean the exclusion of Rooney. The talismanic striker has been limited to 20 minute spells coming off the bench.

The trio of Wes Burns, Storey and Stockley started in the season opener at McDiarmid Park. It was St Johnstone, though, who looked more dangerous in the goalless draw. While McInnes could be pleased that Anthony O’Connor appears to have added some much needed solidity and consistency to his defence, he must’ve been disappointed that his three new attackers looked so impotent.

Against Hearts, McInnes persisted in starting Stockley ahead of Rooney. The result: no goals and one glancing header that dipped over the crossbar. For the second consecutive game Aberdeen were unable to break through a resistant defence. Niall McGinn made a couple of decent runs but did little to test the inexperienced Jack Hamilton, while Wes Burns has shown nothing to suggest that he’s an adequate cover for the recovering Jonny Hayes.

It’s crucial that Aberdeen start firing. Celtic are one point ahead already, and have a game-in-hand after postponing their tie against Partick Thistle in favour of a glamour friendly in Ireland. Rangers are also starting to settle in the league. If the Dons want to challenge the Hoops for the title, or at least fight for second against the Gers, Derek McInnes can’t afford a goal drought.

 

LIAM BOYCE COULD BE BACK TO HIS BEST

Liam Boyce began last season in startling form. The Staggies striker notched seven goals in the first ten games, as County continued their brilliant form from the campaign prior. He tailed off for a spell before another glut came in a six-match run, culminating in a hat-trick against Dundee. He wouldn’t score for another 14 games. He toiled as Alex Schalk ran riot against Celtic, and the League Cup won’t be remembered for his contribution – he came off after an anonymous 59 minutes. With Craig Curran, Brian Graham and Schalk all competing for two starting berths, his form put his position under question. He silenced those queries against Inverness.

On seven minutes he put the Staggies ahead. Curran popped a cross past three red-and-blue shirts, placing the ball square on the forehead of his partner-in-crime. Boyce converted. Not that the inept Inverness defence could’ve made it any easier. Kevin McNaughton watched, motionless, as the ball sailed over his head, and Carl Tremarco, seeing the event unfolding, arrived too late to make up for the centre-half’s error. McNaughton had to go off through injury not long after.

The visitors were on course for a second thanks to the lax defending of the hosts. On 26 minutes, Boyce doubled the Staggies’ slender lead. Richard Foster’s sweeping cross from deep landed in the box, at the feet of the chasing striker. Boyce, with one deft left-foot touch, prodded the ball back to his right, sending a dumbfounded David Raven heading in the opposite direction. It gave him enough time to rest, to drink a coffee, and to pick out the bottom right corner of Owain Fon Williams’ net.

Inverness snatched a disputed goal before half-time and appeared much more settled. County needed another goal to put the game beyond doubt. Boyce stepped up. Chris Routis’ pin-point free-kick found Boyce among a huddle at the far post. Again Inverness were the culprits of their own downfall. Tremarco and Gary Warren had Boyce sandwiched, yet the County striker outleapt both of them to complete his hat-trick.

As much as his hat-trick had to do with Inverness’s incompetent defending, Boyce did an excellent job at getting into the right positions. He fought harder in the air for the third, and showed a sublime touch for the second. It was an imperious display. It might just be the confidence boost he needed to kick-start another productive campaign.

 

CHAMPIONSHIP

DURNAN OR DONALDSON MUST GO

One might underestimate the job Ray McKinnon has on his hands. Dundee United are a Premiership-size club and boast a collection of talents that would walk into most teams in the Championship. But one must only look to Easter Road to see that earning promotion from the second tier at a so-called ‘big club’ is not as simple as it looks. United might have cleared out most of the rot and ditched Mixu, but that doesn’t fix a broken mind-set; time, positive performances, and strong results are the cure for that infection. McKinnon must achieve all three to lift them out of their slumber. But to do so, he must also create strong foundations to build a team on.

Against Dumbarton United lined-up with a back-four of Jamie Robson, Coll Donaldson, Mark Durnan and Lewis Toshney. It’s a centre-back partnership that strikes fear into the hearts of Arabs. And on the banks of the Clyde, the dynamic duo struck again. Durnan dragged Gregor Buchanan to the ground from a corner, giving Mark Docherty the chance to score his third penalty in two games. It could’ve been much worse – a free-kick cannoned off the crossbar.

It came as a surprise that McKinnon kept his faith in the pair. Donaldson is erratic personified. He’ll charge out, leaving gaping holes in the defence, unaware of what’s happening around him, and loses concentration. Durnan, on the other hand, cannot seem to track an opponent. It’s difficult to pick who’s worse. There’s such strong competition. It’s also a strange decision that McKinnon chose both because he has Lewis Toshney, who proved to be a decent centre-half at Raith, out at full-back. It also can’t help the development of Jamie Robson. An inexperienced 18-year-old needs guidance, not Coll Donaldson. United can’t afford both of them dragging the team down. McKinnon must get rid of at least one of them.

 

LEAGUE ONE

STENNY LOSE A ‘SIX POINTER’

It might seem early in the season for talk of ‘six-pointers’, but Queen’s Park visit to Stenhousemuir might’ve been one. Queen’s, despite their promotion, lost Willie Muir and Chris Duggan to East Fife in the summer, and are still in the process of building a squad capable of keeping them in the division. It’s part of the reason the Spiders are regarded as one of the favourites for relegation. Stenhousemuir are another side tipped for the trapdoor. The Warriors came out victorious in the play-offs at the culmination of the 2014-15 campaign, and a late surge saved them last season. But their luck will run out unless results improve. A 2-1 loss at Brechin was not the start they were looking for. While Stranraer and Peterhead are pointless, the former have gone up against Alloa and Livingston – the pair expected to duke it out for the title – and the Blue Toon have also faced the Lions. It’s Stenhousemuir and Queen’s Park who’re expected to struggle over the season. Both will need all the points they can muster, and that’s what made their meeting at Ochilview all the more important.

The Warriors had started off the better side and snatched a lead on 34 minutes. Alan Cook found Stephen Stirling on the edge of the D. The midfielder took one touch, bouncing the ball off the ground, and then fired a driven piledriver off into the top right corner – a magnificent strike to put the hosts ahead. Stenny created more chances than the visitors – six to QP’s five – and looked like building on their slender lead. But football’s given us enough examples of teams being punished for not taking the advantage, and Brown Ferguson’s side are just the latest victim. The Spiders improved in the second-half; one free-kick smashed off the crossbar, and Colin McCabe had to be at his best to stop a handful of decent chances. And on 73 minutes the equaliser came. Stirling and Ryan McGeever both swung for a loose ball in the Stenny box, but the Queen’s Park defender got the initial touch, and Stirling’s foot found flesh instead of leather. McGeever fell to the ground, an agonised expression on his face, as John McKendrick pointed to the spot – the centre-back jumped upon hearing the whistle and started celebrating. Darren Miller fired the ball into the top right corner to level proceedings. It looked like the teams would have to settle for a point; each had a half-chance as the game came to an end. But on 90 minutes, Queen’s Park nicked all three points. Ross Meechan gifted David Galt enough space to find an unmarked Joshua Watt at the far post. Jamie McCormack watched as the ball dipped over his head and only then realised that it had found its intended target. Watt’s clumsy volley bounced off the ground and over McCabe. Furious shouts of ‘concentrate’ could be heard bellowing from the mouth of Ferguson as the visitors celebrated.

Stenhousemuir have perhaps the lowest budget in the division, so Ferguson doesn’t have the tools to attract talents capable of firing them up the league. He must do the best with what little he has. Simple things like concentration, dedication, and organisation will be crucial if their fans harbour hopes of remaining in League One. The next couple of weeks will be tough; a trip to on-form Livingston and a visit from Airdrieonians are unlikely to yield points. Stenhousemuir visit Hampden Park on October 29. It’ll be interesting to see where the two teams are at that point. If Stenny don’t show signs of improvement before then, this could be a long and miserable season for the Warriors.

Dundee 1-2 Rangers – Talking Points

Dundee will miss Hemmings in the big games

It was an abject performance from the hosts – one that must’ve been a wake-up call to reality after the departures of Kane Hemmings and Greg Stewart. While Dundee bested Ross County the week prior, they also came up against a three-man defence with no pace, and both sides were evenly matched. That was not the case at Dens Park. Rangers controlled the game, forged most of the chances, and kept Dundee from doing any real damage. Quite often the dark blue defence would thump the ball down-field in a desperate hope of easing the pressure on them. They did so to little avail.

Rory Loy is a talented striker, but he’s not Kane Hemmings. He doesn’t have the power, the pace, and the strength of the now Oxford United frontman. Hemmings could be effective as a lone striker in such situations because he could hassle a defence, using his large frame to outmuscle centre-backs and hold up the ball. Loy lacks the strength and presence to do that. It doesn’t help that Paul Hartley has limited options on his bench. Neither Faissal El Bakhtaoui nor Craig Wighton offer a more physical presence. Yordi Teijsse looked dominant when he came on, but it remains to be seen whether he also has the technical skills to match.

 

Rangers are still vulnerable

Rangers were cruising to three points as half-time approached. The Gers sliced through Dundee’s lax defence for their second; Lee Wallace running behind Cammy Kerr to meet Barrie McKay’s chipped through ball, and then pulling it back for Kenny Miller to thump past Scott Bain. The hosts were rocking. It should’ve marked the beginning of a comfortable spell for Rangers. But Dundee refused to retreat and the Gers laboured in their search for a third.

Questions were again asked of Rangers defence after a soft goal for the Dees. As a corner came in both Danny Wilson and Miller misjudged headers to clear, and Joey Barton let Mark O’Hara make a darting run behind them to head the ball past Wes Foderingham. Rangers had looked comfortable for 44 minutes, yet Mark Warburton must’ve trudged off at half-time frustrated that his side had let Dundee gain a slight glimpse of a point.

The second-half proved to be a more even contest. The introductions of the physical Yordi Teijsse and mobile Faissal El Bakhtaoui made a huge difference for Dundee – Loy had been largely ineffective as the lone striker. Although the duo couldn’t find an equaliser, Rangers were far less comfortable after Paul Hartley made the change. As Hamilton proved last week, this isn’t the formidable Rangers of old.

 

Rangers should’ve been down to ten

Harry Forrester should’ve been off the pitch one minute before he was. Having picked up a booking in the first-half, he lunged into a late challenge, one leg either side of his opponents’. It was a clear second bookable offence, and he should’ve been off. However, Craig Thomson balked at the suggestion. Mark Warburton obviously felt Thomson made the wrong decision; he brought the goal-scorer off a minute later, clearly feeling that it was only a matter of time before the winger saw red.

Warburton said after the game: “Another referee might have given it but I can’t comment on that.”

 

O’Hara could be a revelation

Mark O’Hara continues to shine in his new role. At Kilmarnock he was often utilised as a right-back or a holding midfielder, but Paul Hartley has freed him from his defensive shackles and has used him in an attacking role. He bullied the Ross County defence last weekend and provided a simple cross for Rory Loy to convert. Whereas Loy is a more technical striker, with little strength and not a great deal of pace, O’Hara is capable of making strong runs from deep, pushing off his markers, bursting through a defence. He offers a direct penetration that Dundee would lack without him.

Celtic 5-0 Motherwell – Talking Points

James Forrest receives a chance from Rodgers

Prior to kick-off, Brendan Rodgers made some interesting comments about James Forrest. Asked about the enigmatic winger following the announcement of a contract extension, the Celtic boss admitted that he’d first seen him when managing in the Premier League and had taken an interest. He also confirmed what many of us had felt about Forrest: he’d plateaued and regressed since bursting onto the scene. It’s clear, though, that Forrest is an important part of Rodgers’ plans in the future. He said that he’d seen his potential on the training field and in glimpses on the pitch and wanted him to remain at Parkhead. Now it’s up to Forrest reward his manager’s faith.

I’ve written in previous blogs about Patrick Roberts being what Forrest should’ve been: quick and direct, yes, but also consistent and a predator in front of goal. Interestingly, the pair play in the same position. We’ll have to wait to see who Rodgers favours. Roberts is the better winger, but he’s also on loan; Forrest is inconsistent but, if developed to reach his full potential, could be more important in the long run.

 

Scott Sinclair is rediscovering his game

The Etihad has become the cemetery of many promising English talents. The tombstones are a who’s who of prospects. You have to wonder why they continue to move to Manchester City – apart from the money, of course. Scott Sinclair had been an integral part of Swansea City’s promotion side before succumbing to the lure of the Etihad in the summer of 2012. Once there, three development-stunting seasons produced just 13 Premier League appearances. A transfer to Aston Villa could’ve reinvigorated his career, but he looked a shell of his former self. For a winger who relies on taking on defences, confidence is key, and he looked drained. It appears, though, that Brendan Rodgers is helping him rediscover his game.

Rodgers was the perfect man for the job. The Celtic boss coached Sinclair in Chelsea’s youth system and later brought him to Swansea; one would imagine few people understand him better. Against Hearts he made an immediate impact, making a lung-busting run from his own-half to tap in Leigh Griffiths’ sumptuous cross past Jack Hamilton. He raced behind the goal and into the arms of the Celtic support, soaked up in the moment. Against Motherwell he made his full debut.

One bonus for Sinclair is that he’s virtually guaranteed a starting berth. While James Forrest and Patrick Roberts will contest the right-flank, there’s no natural winger on the left other than Sinclair. He looked full of confidence from the opening moments, running directly at the ‘Well defence, feet a blur, and proved to be a constant source of frustration for Richard Tait. He capped off the performance with another goal. He breezed past the right-back as he cut inside the box, also evading Chris Cadden, and then curled a simple effort into the right corner. Samson stood motionless as he watched the ball nestle in the corner. After years on the bench at the Etihad and then failing to recover his form at Villa, these moments will be joyous ones for the winger.

 

Tom Rogic made a second impression

Tom Rogic didn’t make the perfect first impression on Brendan Rodgers. The Aussie started in Celtic’s embarrassing defeat to Lincoln Red Imps, giving perhaps his worst performance in the hooped shirt. For those of us who watched him last season, and those of us who regard him as the best midfielder in the league, it made for frustrating viewing. It speaks volumes that he didn’t make another starting appearance until last night. Thankfully, he made a much better impression the second time round.

It was a performance from Rogic that highlighted his best attributes. He glided around the pitch, linking the midfield, and helped get the best out of Sinclair and Forrest. The occasionally anonymous winger can drift out of games, but Rogic did an outstanding job of utilising both flanks and making the most of team’s width. He also gave a demonstration of his skill in the form of his two strikes.

Callum McGregor spotted the run of Rogic and put a perfectly weighted dinked pass over the defence. Rogic, back to goal, brought it down with his outstretched right foot, and then span around on the spot to smash it into the roof of Craig Samson’s net with his left. It was a moment of genius from the pair; from McGregor in reading his movement and lobbing the defence, and from Rogic in using his superb touch to control the ball, putting it in the perfect position to rifle it in. The midfielder’s second was a little less outstanding. James Forrest hit a driven effort at Samson, who palmed it into the path of the Aussie. Rogic, again demonstrating his timing, held off Richard Tait and tapped it into the empty net. It completed an excellent game for Rogic, probably the first of many for the campaign.

 

Motherwell can’t afford injuries

Mark McGhee named an almost unchanged line-up to the one that bested Kilmarnock on Saturday, making just three changes as he chose to adopt a more conservative approach against the champions. Brendan Rodgers kept a similar line-up as well, the difference being that he made three substitutions, and all three were making their first competitive outings of the campaign. The Celtic boss introduced Tony Ralston, a right-back who made a good impression on loan at Queen’s Park last season, centre-back Jamie McCart, and Liam Henderson, whose been linked with a return to Hibs. Motherwell, on the other hand, made just one change.

It speaks volumes that McGhee saw fit to make just one change as the game progressed. Lionel Ainsworth, who scored a sublime lob against Killie, came on at the start of the second-half to replace Stevie Hammell. The lack of options on the bench confirmed there was little McGhee could do to change the game. Centre-back Louis Laing has dropped out of favour since McGhee took over, 19-year-old Dylan Mackin has one appearance to his name, 20-year-old David Ferguson made a handful of starts for the Steelmen in 2014/15, Lee Lucas is yet to make his debut, and Dom Thomas still hasn’t been given a decent stretch of games to establish himself. It highlights just how limited a squad McGhee has. Scott McDonald made his second straight start as the lone striker and often found himself isolated. He’s at his best when he’s using his ingenuity to create chances, such as his through ball for Ainsworth’s chip on Saturday. He’s not a penalty box striker, but the fact he’s in that position shows how much the club are missing the recovering Louis Moult. Motherwell can’t afford more injuries.

Talking Points from Scottish Football

PREMIERSHIP

Consistency is key for Crawford

It wasn’t quite the return to the Premiership that Rangers supporters expected. A packed-out Ibrox turned out to witness a ‘welcome home’ party, but instead found that Hamilton had turned up the lights, kicked out the guests, and popped the balloons. And no one did quite as much popping as Ali Crawford.

The erratic attacking midfielder tore a stagnant Rangers’ midfield to shreds, hassling and pressing them out of possession one minute, dribbling around them the next. He even had time to nutmeg Joey Barton. He looked at his electric best, and capped his brilliant performance off with a stunning goal. Being edged towards the corner of the Rangers’ box, Nico Krancjar inexplicably dived in, missing the ball completely, and giving Crawford the chance to cut back inside. The Hamilton attacker obliged, dragging the ball back, before curling a sudden shot past Wes Foderingham. The stunned Ibrox fell silent.

At his best, Crawford can be unplayable. His creativity and drive is crucial to Hamilton – it’s no surprise their form dropped off whenever he did. Unfortunately, his form comes in patches; patches that last months. He had a stunning start to last season but tailed off after three or four months. He has the talent to be among the best attackers in the division, now it’s time to prove it.

 

Could Rory Loy be the one to fill Hemmings’ boots?

The departure of Kane Hemmings hit Dundee fans hard. The Dees had been preparing themselves for the exit of Greg Stewart; he’s been at Dens for two full campaigns and picked up two Player of the Year nominations. But it felt like Hemmings, for all his goal-scoring exploits, had just arrived. Then Oxford United – a move which should help indicate the level of the Scottish Premiership – swooped in and matched Hemmings’ small buy-out clause – a mere £250,000. That was a gut punch.

The feeling of despair eased slightly last week when it was announced that the club had signed Faissal El Bakhtaoui. The former Dunfermline Athletic striker had a trial at Blackburn Rovers, but the Lancastrian club opted not to sign him and the Dees swooped in to land their man. The Moroccan scored 30 goals in League One last season, and, although it’s yet to be seen whether he’ll make the step up, Dundee fans were understandably excited about his arrival. But he didn’t start against Ross County; Rory Loy did.

The former Falkirk striker endured an injury hit campaign last season. After scoring a brace on his league debut in the memorable 4-0 thrashing of Kilmarnock, he spent a spell on the side-lines and then returned only to be pushed out to the left-flank as he watched Hemmings shine in his favoured position. With Hemmings now departed, this is Loy’s opportunity to make the starting striker position his. He didn’t disappoint against the Staggies.

On 13 minutes the industrious Mark O’Hara put a driven cross into the six-yard-box, which Loy, sliding in, thumped in off his left boot. The Dundee support erupted behind the goal. Then just before half-time, James McEveley pushed O’Hara to the ground as a corner came in. Loy stepped up and coolly placed it down the centre of Scott Fox’s goal.

Loy will be desperate for his season to not be defined by injuries again. He’s proven that he’s capable of being a reliable goal-scorer, but only if his body doesn’t let him down. This is going to be a huge season for him.

 

CHAMPIONSHIP

Individual mistakes cost Dumbarton

On paper, Dumbarton’s 4-3 defeat at East End Park doesn’t look like a terrible result for the Sons. However, it would’ve been 4-1 had it not been for two late mistakes from Dunfermline. Michael Paton tripped David Smith as both reached for the ball, and, minutes later, Lee Ashcroft dragged Robert Thompson to the ground, both resulting in penalties that Mark Docherty put beyond David Hutton. If not for these errors, it would’ve been a far more humbling afternoon for the visitors. It could be a long season for them. Especially if an under pressure Stevie Aitken doesn’t address their defensive frailties.

Craig Pettigrew had a debut to forget for Dumbarton at right-back. He was constantly found out of position and did little to help the Sons in attack. And there will be questions about Frazer Wright after he made a mistake for Dunfermline’s third. Alan Martin passed the ball out to Wright, who hesitated and lost possession. Moffat got the ball, pushed it out to an unmarked Joe Cardle, and the winger placed it past a dejected Martin to complete his hat-trick. While poor Daniel Harvie, just 18-years-old, had a torrid time against an in-form Kallum Higginbotham. The inexperienced left-back looked nervous throughout and contributed to Dumbarton’s downfall. Under pressure he shifted the ball to Docherty, like a shit version of pass the parcel, and he conceded possession inside the box, left frustrated as David Hopkirk rounded off the scoring for the hosts. Not all of Dunfermline’s goals can be attributed to individual mistakes, but a team like Dumbarton, who’re expected to struggle, can’t afford to gift their opponents so many opportunities. Not if they want to stay in the Championship.

 

LEAGUE TWO

Easton could be the difference for Clyde

This is going to be a huge season for Barry Ferguson. The Clyde manager has spent two full seasons in charge of the Bully Wee, with little to show for it. This summer he completed another squad revamp, edging out many of the OAPs of Scottish football he’d remembered from his playing days, and bringing in some of the most exciting talents in League Two. He cherry-picked younger talents like the attacking-minded left-back Jordan Lowdon – although his defensive deficiencies contributed to Montrose’s equaliser, former Annan midfielder Matt Flynn, and the promising Dylan Easton. The latter, in particular, could be a crucial acquisition for Clyde.

Easton earned a Player of the Year nomination for his performances up in Elgin last season – even if his diving exploits provoked a furious reaction from the normally chill Jim Chapman – and therefore his arrival created quite a buzz amongst the Clyde support. On Saturday he lived up to his substantial promise.

His first goal at the club was the perfect introduction. He weaved through the Montrose midfield with ease, the ball glued to his foot. As he began moving towards the box he produced a thunderbolt directed straight at the top right corner of Jordan Millar’s goal. A moment of genius that encapsulated almost everything he brings to the club. He completed his highlight reel later on, helping create the winner. Again dribbling through the Montrose midfield, he put a perfectly weighted ball to Peter MacDonald. A deft touch from the striker squeezed the ball through the defence, leaving Flynn with all the time to slot it past Millar.

Hearts 1-2 Celtic

Celtic put down a marker. It might not have been a classic performance, and the champions rode their luck at times, but the Hoops ended the afternoon on three points. It’s the mark of champions, and often the difference between them and their challengers. 24 hours before, Rangers laboured inside a packed Ibrox, Hamilton Academical more than deserving of their share of the points. Then, minutes before Celtic kicked-off their bid to add a sixth-straight title, Aberdeen had to settle for a point after struggling to break through a resilient St Johnstone defence.

Hearts, although ending the match with nothing, proved their point. Robbie Neilson has been criticised from sections of the Jambos support for dull and sometimes limp performances – their Europa League qualification exit to Maltese side Birkirkara ticked both those boxes. He couldn’t afford another lame outing against Celtic. The Jambos impressed, though, hassling Celtic and creating more chances than the visitors. Neilson did not set out for a point.

One might have expected Hearts to retreat and reshape after conceding James Forrest put Celtic ahead inside eight minutes, but the hosts refused to relent and got their reward, with Jamie Walker slotting in from the spot. Hearts looked the better side, creating opportunities for a winner, but Scott Sinclair made the perfect debut. He got on the end of Leigh Griffiths’ weighted cross and tapped it past Hamilton to wrap up a brilliant weekend for the champions.

The Hearts manager couldn’t be criticised for not going for a win with an attacking line-up. Both Conor Sammon and ex-Celt Tony Watt started, with Jamie Walker and Sam Nicholson providing the width. For the champions, Kolo Toure made his debut in the famous green-and-white hoops, starting at centre-back alongside the less experienced Eoghan O’Connell, as did Moussa Dembele.

The hosts got off to an ambitious start. Conor Sammon, donning the maroon shirt for the first time in the Premiership, charged at the Celtic defence, focusing on the retreating Kolo Toure, before firing his shot just past the post. It was the start Hearts fans desperately wanted to see.

But the boisterous crowd soon fell silent.

Igor Rossi edged an invading Callum McGregor off the ball but could do little about it rolling to James Forrest. The erratic winger took one touch, a curling effort that evaded the outstretched fingertips of Hamilton. There was an element of offside as Stuart Armstrong, stood behind the defence, might’ve been blocking the view of the Hearts’ goalkeeper.

Hearts didn’t retreat back into their shell, though.

There’s no doubt that Watt should’ve equalised. Callum Paterson produced an excellent cross which Craig Gordon completely misjudged. The former Celtic striker escaped his marker and met the ball at the far post, inches out. His header, though, missed the goal completely. A dumbfounded Neilson dropped to his knees, head in his hands.

Seconds later, Griffiths missed a simple chance of his own – one he would’ve buried at his in-form best last season. A goal-kick from Gordon evaded the entire Celtic defence, Rossi mistiming his header, and Griffiths snuck in behind. The usually clinical striker lobbed Hamilton but sent the ball crashing into the advertising hoardings.

The game turned into an end-to-end, action-packed affair – different from the turgid display at McDiarmid Park – and Hearts were soon rewarded for their willingness to push the champions.

Jamie Walker and Tierney both went for a ball inside the Celtic box, with the former getting there just before the latter. Walker dropped to the ground; the referee pointed to the spot. Whether there was contact is another question, but Hearts fans, after a possible offside influencing Celtic’s goal, were not going to voice their queries. Walker stepped up and coolly slotted it to Gordon’s left.

Celtic almost undid Hearts’ work minutes later. Dembele skipped in from the left and fired a shot at Hamilton. The ball bounced to Griffiths, who lobbed his marker. With the Hearts goalkeeper still recovering and the ball edging towards the goal, Rossi pulled off a sublime clearance. Retreating, with no pace behind him, he fell and leapt at the perfect moment, nudging the ball into the welcoming hands of Hamilton.

Hearts continued to threaten. Watt looked electric, confidence oozing out him. His unpredictable movement, dropping deep to collect the ball one moment, making runs in behind the next, made him a constant source of frustration for the nervy Celtic defence. Sammon offered a different option. He used his size to hassle Toure and co, creating opportunities for the more light-weight Watt, as well as Nicholson and Walker.

As the referee called for half-time, Hearts were certainly in the ascendancy. Celtic, meanwhile, needed to regain their composure.

The second-half brought a slightly tamer game. It was clear that both managers had advised a little more caution. One thing that did increase was the amount of bookings. Hearts picked up seven – yes, seven – individual yellow cards, most coming after the break.

Dembele had another chance to open his account at Celtic: he met a simple cross and drove it at the Hearts’ goal, and if not for a block inside the six-yard-box he would’ve done so.

The introduction of Tom Rogic, a more adventurous midfielder, in place of O’Connell changed Celtic to a simple back-three, with Scott Sinclair also coming on to make his debut. It would be a memorable one.

With ten minutes remaining, Griffiths burst along the left flank, beating Faycal Rherras, and delivered a stunning cross to the feet of Sinclair, who, with a deft outside-of-the-foot touch, pushed the ball past Hamilton. He rushed off into the celebrating arms of the Celtic support, enjoying a moment that must have become a rarity at Aston Villa. Brendan Rodgers also celebrated. Celtic are two games away from a return to the Champions League, and already two points ahead of Rangers, Aberdeen and Hearts.

Scottish Premiership Previews: Motherwell

Motherwell had been in free-fall since 2014. The Steelmen finished runners-up the season prior, edging out Aberdeen on the final afternoon, but began the next campaign in relegation form. Stuart McCall resigned as Motherwell languished near the foot of the table. Form didn’t improve under Ian Barraclough, although a 6-1 humbling of Rangers in the play-off final did provide an enjoyable moment for Scottish football fans. Barraclough’s torrid reign came to an end not long into the next season. ‘Well toiled, picking up just seven points from eight games, and a one-nil defeat at Hamilton called time on his unpopular tenure. Motherwell needed a stable, reliable hand to guide them. Mark McGhee provided that.

There wasn’t an outpouring of emotion from ‘Well fans upon hearing the news. McGhee isn’t the type of manager who incites that sort of reaction. But he brought about a steady improvement – 14 points from his first eight matches indicated Motherwell had made the right choice. However, a blip at the beginning of 2016 – five defeats in seven games – sent them tumbling back towards the relegation places, and McGhee knew he had to make a change. The alteration came in the form of a switch to a 4-3-3 from a flat 4-4-2, giving the Steelmen an extra man in midfield and focusing their attack through the trio of Marvin Johnson, Scott McDonald and Louis Moult. It brought the best out of all three. Johnson brought his pace and bag of tricks; McDonald his experienced mind and creativity; and Moult his relentless hard work and poacher’s instinct. Five consecutive victories sent them clambering back up the table to finish a comfortable fifth.

It has been, for the most part, a rather settled summer for McGhee. The one departure that might affect them is the loss of Stephen Pearson, who joined Kolkata in the Indian Super League. It leaves a gaping hole in the centre of their midfield, one which McGhee has to plug. The silver-haired Keith Lasley doesn’t have the legs to fill that role, so it could fall to one of Craig Clay or Lee Lucas, both new arrivals, to partner him in the middle of the park. It could also be a huge season for Chris Cadden. The 19-year-old made 16 league appearances last season, and this would be the perfect time to make his role permanent.

Although Marvin Johnson has been the recipient of interest from down south, McGhee, for now, still has his attacking trio. The addition of striker Jacob Blyth from Leicester City should give him back-up and a chance to rotate.

One area that McGhee has bolstered is his defence. The Steelmen conceded a huge 63 goals last season – a figure slightly warped by their 7-0 hammering at Parkhead on the final afternoon of the season. Steven Hammell and Stephen McManus are the only semi-reliable elements in the ‘Well defence, which is a cause for concern given the former is 34 and the latter is 33. McGhee has tried to address this in bringing centre-backs Carl McHugh and Ben Heneghan to Fir Park, and right-back Richard Tait. Unfortunately the club also lost Connor Ripley, after the goalkeeper’s loan came to an end. Craig Samson and Dean Brill, who signed after an injury ravaged couple of seasons in Inverness, will battle for the number one jersey.

Mark McGhee will hope to pick up from where he left off. If ‘Well can hold on to McDonald, Moult and Johnson, they’ve got a good chance of again challenging for the top-six – a more difficult proposition this season with the return (or first time appearance) of Rangers. McGhee’s main aim will to reduce the amount of goals the Steelmen ship, lessening the burden on the front three. If he can find the right balance in midfield and plug the Steven Pearson shaped hole, he’ll be on the right track. Another stable and safe season should be on the cards for ‘Well. Given their recent cup history, though, I’m sure the Motherwell support would appreciate a little cup run.

Scottish Premiership Previews: Partick Thistle

Partick Thistle are the forgotten man of the Scottish Premiership. The Jags are a steady ship, drifting from season to season, a calming presence – apart from the horrifying Kingsley – in the sometimes tumultuous world of Scottish football, keeping a safe distance from a relegation dog-fight, yet rarely threatening to break out of the bottom-six. But could that be about to change? Could this be the season that Alan Archibald’s men make a break for the top-six?

It could’ve been a difficult summer for Alan Archibald. Stuart Bannigan, Abdul Osman and Steven Lawless were all out of contract. The trio possess all the talents a decent Premiership midfield could ask for, and it would’ve been an almost impossible situation for Archibald to replace them. But all three opted to remain at Firhill. It meant Archibald could focus on building, rather than replacing.

The one addition to his settled midfield is the return – for his third spell – of Chris Erskine. The attacking midfielder dropped out of the Dundee United setup not long after Mixu’s arrival, and he’ll relish the chance to make a regular impact. His creativity in behind the striker could be crucial. Partick scored just 41 goals last season – the same as Kilmarnock and fewer than relegated Dundee United.

Thistle have added striker Adebayo Azeez to the club, hoping he’ll be more Kris Doolan and less Mathias Pogba. Paul’s slightly less talented brother – he’s not the one moving for £100 million – possesses the physical attributes to succeed in Scotland but not the technical ones, and it doesn’t help that he couldn’t hit a water with a banjo (I might be getting my phrases crossed). Doolan, on the other hand, is a dangerous penalty box striker on his day; unfortunately those days come all in patches. However, he did look a little more consistent towards the end of the season, hitting six goals in the final seven games. That productivity would be useful if Archibald holds secret ambitions of breaking into the top-six.

Thistle did possess one of the stronger defences last season, conceding 50 goals – the second best record in the bottom six, and fewer than Motherwell, St Johnstone, and Ross County. The one departure that might hurt Partick is Danny Seaborne, who joined Indian side Mohun Bagan rather than extend his contract at Firhill. It leaves a lot of pressure on the inexperienced Liam Lindsay, who’ll be partnered either by Danny Devine or David Syme. Neither is a great option. Devine was bang average at Inverness, arguably the weakest defender in their back-line; Syme, meanwhile, is 19 and still developing. A bit of experience wouldn’t go amiss if Archibald decides to dip back into the market.

When the news that Mustapha Dumbuya suffered another long-term injury broke, Partick fans must’ve felt a familiar feeling of frustration and sadness. The right-back from Sierra Leone has looked so strong, both attacking and defending, during his short stint in Scotland, yet recurring injuries have meant we’ve seen so little of him. That blow, however, was slightly mitigated by the arrival of Ziggy Gordon. The announcement came as a surprise, as many thought he’d earned a chance at a bigger club – no offence to Thistle. The quick and mobile 23-year-old will be an excellent replacement for Dumbuya as he recovers.

Overall, Alan Archibald will call this summer a success. He’s retained the core of his squad, added strength up front in Azeez and Erskine, and given himself a second – and good – choice at right-back in Gordon. If Partick Thistle are to challenge for a place in the top-six it will come down to two questions: can Devine or Syme form a strong partnership with Lindsay, and can Doolan – or another striker – contribute a consistent stream of goals. If so, the Firhill side might be celebrating a top-six finish for the first time since 1977.