Scottish Premiership

Dramatic win for Rangers as Danilo scores, but injury mars victory. St Johnstone vs. Rangers – a game of highs and lows.

In a thrilling Scottish Premiership clash, Celtic showcased their dominance in the second half, securing a 3-0 victory over a resilient Dundee side. This win allowed the champions to surge two points ahead at the top of the league table.The game’s turning point occurred when David Turnbull calmly converted a penalty after he was fouled on the edge of the penalty box. This goal broke the deadlock and set the stage for Celtic’s second-half resurgence.Kyogo Furuhashi, the Japanese sensation, added to Celtic’s lead with a well-timed header and then turned provider, setting up Matt O’Riley for a clinical finish. These goals highlighted Celtic’s newfound fluency and attacking prowess after a goalless first half.Dundee, on the other hand, had their moments, with Luke McCowan coming close to opening the scoring, only to be denied by an exceptional save from Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart. However, the visitors couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities, and their resistance crumbled in the second half.One of the game’s highlights was when Owen Beck set up McCowan with a golden opportunity, but striker Luke Robinson failed to convert the rebound, much to Dundee’s frustration.Player of the match honors undoubtedly went to Daizen Maeda, whose dynamic performance added flair to Celtic’s attack. Maeda was a constant threat, and although he had a goal disallowed, his impact on the game was undeniable.Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, praising their patience and ability to break down Dundee’s defensive efforts. He pointed out that the second half saw a significant increase in fluency and connection among the players, leading to a more threatening attack.Dundee manager Tony Docherty, however, voiced his disappointment with the penalty decision, describing it as really soft. He believed that the first goal was pivotal in the match’s outcome and expressed pride in his team’s execution of the game plan in the first half.Looking ahead, Celtic’s focus turns to the Champions League as they prepare to face Feyenoord in their group opener. This victory provides them with a confidence boost as they embark on their European campaign. Meanwhile, Dundee will aim to regroup and bounce back when they face Kilmarnock in their next fixture.In summary, Celtic’s quality shone through in the end, breaking Dundee’s resistance with a superb second-half performance. This victory sets a positive tone for Celtic as they pursue success in both domestic and European competitions.

Unbeaten Motherwell’s resilient win over Hearts secures their 10-game streak, showcasing tactical prowess amid mounting pressure.

Managerless Hibernian’s stunning victory over Aberdeen showcases grit & goals as Le Fondre & Doidge shine in Scottish Premiership clash.

In a riveting Old Firm showdown, Kyogo Furuhashi proves unstoppable, securing a 1-0 victory for Celtic against Rangers. Despite significant off-season changes and a home crowd advantage, Rangers can’t crack the Furuhashi code. Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic youth movement shines, leaving Rangers questioning their investments.

Celtic Edges Past Rangers 1-0: Brendan Rodgers’ Definitive Old Firm Victory Marred by ControversyKyogo Furuhashi’s first-half goal at Ibrox marked his sixth score in the age-old rivalryBrendan Rodgers quashed any early doubts about his second stint as Celtic’s head honcho by orchestrating a headline-grabbing Old Firm win over Rangers, though not without its share of debate and disputes.The spotlight was once again on Kyogo Furuhashi, who seized the opportunity just before halftime to punish some subpar defending by Rangers at Ibrox, netting his sixth Old Firm goal in his fifth starting appearance.Yet, the pivotal goal from the Japanese forward was shrouded in a cloud of what-ifs. Rabbi Matondo’s offside shot was nullified in the game’s opening minute, while a second goal from Kemar Roofe was axed due to a dubious foul call on Cyriel Dessers against Gustaf Lagerbielke.Referee Don Robertson chose to nix the goal after conducting an on-field VAR check, a move that drew raised eyebrows, especially considering Lagerbielke seemed to have fouled the Rangers striker while being dispossessed.Before the match, Rangers’ manager Michael Beale had emphasized the need to make a statement, especially in the wake of a mortifying Champions League defeat in Eindhoven. Unfortunately for him, this loss only intensifies the scrutiny he’s under, considering his one victory in six Old Firm matchups.As for Celtic, their defense, held together by makeshift centre-backs Lagerbielke and Liam Scales—both making their Old Firm debuts—managed to withstand the pressure after halftime, thanks largely to goalkeeper Joe Hart. The win moves Celtic two points clear at the top of the table and four points ahead of their historic rivals.Additional ContextThe stakes were high for both teams’ managers heading into the game. Rodgers was trying to reclaim the Celtic faithful’s hearts after a lackluster showing in the Viaplay Cup and a drab draw with St. Johnstone. On the other side, Beale was still smarting from a 5-1 second-leg loss to PSV, knocking Rangers out of Champions League contention.Amidst a deafening atmosphere at a fully packed Ibrox, both teams displayed moments of strength and vulnerability. Between the ruled-out goals for Rangers, Furuhashi missed a close-range shot and had another cleared by Connor Goldson before squandering a golden opportunity to assist Liel Abada, who had just forced a brilliant fingertip save from Jack Butland.The rest of the match showcased Celtic’s fortitude on defense and Rangers’ impotence in attack, encapsulated by Sam Lammers’ critical miss and Hart’s crucial last-minute saves against Danilo.Player of the Match – Liam ScalesDespite a jittery start, Celtic’s Liam Scales rose to the occasion in the second half, anchoring a patchwork defense and playing a critical role in preserving the lead.Post-Game AnalysisBig games need big performances, Beale had said before the match. Against a vulnerable Celtic backline, Rangers had their chance and flubbed it. While much of the focus will inevitably be on the disallowed Roofe goal, it’s hard to ignore yet another defensive gaffe that turned the tide in favor of Celtic.Matt O’Riley’s simple header caught John Souttar napping, allowing Furuhashi to convert a clinical finish. Beale must be wondering what it’d be like to have a finisher of Furuhashi’s caliber, who managed to make a significant impact with just nine touches, four of which were shots.On the flip side, this marks Rodgers’ 10th win in 13 Old Firm matches, effectively brushing off the lingering doubts about his second tenure at Celtic.Upcoming FixturesFollowing the international break, both teams will be back in action on September 16. Rangers will face St. Johnstone at 12:30 BST, while Celtic will play host to Dundee.And, there you have it, another chapter in the Old Firm saga, and this one had more plot twists than a Christopher Nolan film. Stay tuned for the sequel.

Brendan Rodgers silences critics with a pivotal 1-0 Old Firm victory over Rangers, amid a flurry of controversial calls. Kyogo Furuhashi nets the game-winner, while debutant Liam Scales shines defensively. This win puts Celtic four points clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership.

Late drama unfolds as St Mirren’s last-gasp equalizer secures draw against Livingston, taking them to the top of the Scottish Premiership.

Dundee Secures First Premiership Win with a Stunning McCowan ChipIn a gripping Scottish Premiership clash, Dundee managed to secure their first victory since their promotion, edging out Heart of Midlothian with a brilliant chip from winger Luke McCowan. The 1-0 win was also Tony Docherty’s maiden league victory as Dundee’s manager, and he had nothing but praise for the standout performer of the match, the 25-year-old McCowan.Docherty, who seemed unsurprised by McCowan’s outstanding goal, referred to a similar feat accomplished by the winger in a pre-season match against Fleetwood. Speaking of McCowan, Docherty remarked, He’s a great boy who typifies the dressing room. He’s all in. I am really pleased for him, but more pleased for the squad in terms of they got their rewards today for all the hard work they put in.The match had an exciting turn of events as both teams struggled to break the deadlock during the first half. However, Dundee managed to find their way through, with McCowan capitalizing on a stray backpass from Aidan Denholm. With skill and precision, McCowan dinked the ball over Hearts’ goalkeeper Zander Clark, leaving the fans in awe.Hearts, who made three substitutions at halftime to shake things up, pressed on in search of an equalizer but found their efforts thwarted by Dundee’s solid defense. The victory marks a crucial turning point for Dundee, while Hearts face their first loss of the new league campaign.Interestingly, there was a bit of confusion over McCowan’s inclusion in the starting lineup due to some discrepancies with the teamsheets. Nevertheless, McCowan’s performance proved that he was a worthy addition to the starting eleven. In a less-than-stellar first half for both sides, McCowan and Scott Tiffoney were the standout players, offering glimmers of skill in an otherwise uneventful period.Hearts’ struggle to find cohesion and fluidity in their gameplay was evident, even after making halftime substitutions. The addition of Nathaniel Atkinson and Liam Boyce brought some improvement, but Dundee’s defense remained resolute. Stephen Kingsley’s free-kick attempt was a close call, but Trevor Carson’s save denied Hearts an equalizer.Dundee’s strategic approach paid off as they managed to catch Hearts on the counter-attack, with McCowan delivering the decisive blow. Hearts’ attempts to mount a comeback were stymied, leaving them frustrated in their pursuit of a goal. As the match ended with Dundee’s victory intact, McCowan rightfully earned the title of Player of the Match for his ability to create magic on the field.For Hearts, the away struggles continue as they face challenges in winning matches outside of Edinburgh and Perth. Despite aspirations of securing a third-place finish, Hearts’ performances away from home have been lackluster. Factors such as European commitments and lineup choices have come under scrutiny, prompting questions about the team’s overall strategy and cohesion.In conclusion, Dundee’s win against Hearts not only secured their first Premiership victory but also showcased their ability to capitalize on opportunities. McCowan’s exceptional chip and Docherty’s strategic guidance proved pivotal in this victory. On the other hand, Hearts must regroup and address their away performance woes as they strive to achieve their season goals. As the Premiership continues, both teams have lessons to learn and improvements to make in their pursuit of success.Dundee’s next challenge will be a league match against St Johnstone, while Hearts face a demanding schedule, including a Europa Conference League play-off against PAOK and a subsequent Premiership clash with Motherwell. The upcoming matches promise more excitement, surprises, and opportunities for these teams to make their mark on the season.

In a match brimming with late-game drama, Bojan Miovski’s last-second penalty salvages a point for a lackluster Aberdeen against a dominant St Mirren. The Paisley squad is left reeling as their shot at a historic third straight Scottish Premiership win evaporates.