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  1. Morton v Arbroath - Match Preview by Russell Gordon After last weekend’s disappointment and controversy at Celtic Park, Morton’s involvement in Scotland’s domestic cup competitions has ended for another season, allowing Dougie Imrie and his charges to concentrate on getting a league campaign that has stuttered in the last month or so back on track as Morton look to regain their place in the top four and push themselves further up the table. With postponements over the festive period, the visit of Arbroath will remarkably be Morton’s first league match at Cappielow Park supported by Dalrada Technology since beating Partick on 12th November. Photo - GBR Photographs. Squad News Club captain Grant Gillespie will miss out as a result of his ordering off at Hamilton a fortnight ago, whilst Lewis Strapp will also miss out with a knee injury, having come off at half time last Saturday. The manager has already stated his concerns that Strapp’s injury could be weeks or months, and in the worst case scenario, we might have seen the last of the full back in a Morton jersey. Calvin Miller could drop back to left back to cover Strapp’s absence, whilst Darragh O’Connor or Carlo Pignatiello could come in a right back, allowing Liam Grimshaw to step into the midfield. On a positive note, Imrie brought in striker George Oakley, recently released by Inverness Caledonian Thistle, who should be looking to make his debut against the Red Lichties. Current Connections Arbroath goalkeeper Derek Gaston is a familiar face to the Cowshed faithful, having spent seven years on the Tail ‘O the Bank, claiming a League One title in 2015, whilst Bobby Linn had a much shorter spell at Cappielow, collecting a Second Division title in 2007. In the Morton ranks, Pignatiello had a brief loan spell at Gayfield in 2021, making only three appearances whilst on the books at Livingston. Tale of the Tape It doesn’t make for good reading. Morton just can’t beat Arbroath, regardless of circumstance. Morton’s last win against the Smokies was a full three years ago, in 2020 when they travelled to Angus and won 2-1. Since then the clubs have met on ten occasions with Morton failing to win any- drawing six and losing four, with two of those defeats at Cappielow. Imrie has previously admitted to being particularly disappointed with the team’s performance in the 1-2 home defeat in September, but Morton were perhaps unfortunate only to come away with only a point from the December trip up the A9, a match in which we were denied a stonewall second half penalty. It seems penalties come easier to some clubs in this country than they do to others. Photo - GBR Photographs. Opposition Analysis The season starts now for Arbroath. After last season’s exertions, there was always going to be a sense of anti-climax around this current campaign, and that’s how this season has panned out. That said, Dick Campbell has been active in the transfer market this month, and the new year derby win over Dundee at Dens Park proved to be a real highlight of the season. However, in losing 1-4 at home to Inverness, Campbell will be aware that the opening of the window is not an automatic fix to their woes of earlier in the season. A draw at promotion chasing Ayr and a credible performance at home to Motherwell in last weekend’s Scottish Cup defeat will at least provide some room for optimism that the Inverness match was an aberration. I spoke to Arbroath fan Ewan Smith (@ewansmithpr), who is feeling a bit better about life in Arbroath in recent weeks; “There’s no doubt it’s been an incredibly difficult season for Arbroath - especially on the back of last year’s Scottish Premiership promotion-chasing exploits. But there are real signs that we’re about to turn the corner- recruitment in January has been very shrewd. Six players have arrived and the new boys have made an instant impact. Winger Yasin Ben El-Mhanni has two goals and three assists in four games, whilst Sean Adarkwa has led the line exceptionally well and Joao Balde has added an energetic spark to the heart of the midfield. Ryan Dow is a very experienced head while Steven Hetherington and Toyosi Olusanya - on loan from St Mirren - are still to make their debuts. Arbroath were boosted by the news long-serving defender Ricky Little has penned a new deal that will secure a testimonial next season. Little took ill during the home Scottish Cup loss to Motherwell last week but will, hopefully, be fit again. And influential midfielder Michael McKenna is starting to kick on. The 4-2 win at Dundee on January 2nd and battling 2-2 draw away to Ayr United have shown that Arbroath can do it on the road. But we desperately need wins and we need them now. We’re in a three-way survival battle with Cove Rangers and Hamilton and, while it’s one I think we can win, the games are ticking away. Morton fans won’t need reminding that their recent record against Lichties isn’t great. It’s eleven games since Ton tasted victory against us. Naturally, I’m backing that to go to 12 with Arbroath winning this one 1-0.” Photo - GBR Photographs. Betting Guide All odds are supplied by McBookie. All odds correct as of 7am on 2nd December 2022 and are subject to change. Please only bet within your means and visit BeGambleAware if you are struggling. Morton are favourites to end the long run without beating Arbroath at 17/20, whilst the visitors to win comes in at 14/5, and the draw at 12/5. George Oakley to get off to a flying start with the first goal is 6/1, whilst the draw at half time and Morton at full time is 14/5. Match Officials Referee- Mike Roncone AR 1- Paul O’Neill AR 2- Craig Macrae
  2. Dean, Alan and Craig discuss Celtic's 5-0 win in the Scottish Cup, VAR in Scottish football, and preview Saturday's home game against Arbroath.
  3. Dean, Alan and Craig discuss Celtic's 5-0 win in the Scottish Cup, VAR in Scottish football, and preview Saturday's home game against Arbroath.
  4. Celtic v Morton – Match Preview by Russell Gordon With Morton’s impressive league campaign hitting a sticky patch in recent weeks, under normal circumstances, the resumption of our Scottish Cup campaign may well be seen as blessed relief from the trials and tribulations of a promotion race. Not so much this weekend though, as Morton jump from the frying pan right into the raging inferno of Celtic Park, and a trip to the champions, and by far the best team in the land. With over 2000 ‘Ton fans travelling to back their heroes, support won’t be in short supply, but we’ll need everything we can to come out of what is unquestionably the hardest possible tie we could’ve drawn at any stage of the tournament, unscathed. It should also be noted that Saturday will be a historic occasion for Morton- the first match we will play with VAR in force, as the governing body have decided to implement the system when it suits, rather than consistently across all or none of the sixteen ties, for some bizarre reason. For those who aren’t travelling to Glasgow’s East End, you can watch the match from behind the sofa on BBC One Scotland. Photo - GBR Photographs. Squad News As far as we are aware, the squad are posting a clean bill of health ahead of the mammoth task in front of them. Grant Gillespie’s suspension will carry onto next week’s league fixture against Arbroath. The news of the aborted signing of former Celtic and Dundee United hitman Nadir Cifci will be seen by the manager as a blow, but it would suggest that Imrie is in the market for a striker, in spite of this latest disappointment. Current Connections In the Celtic squad, only centre back Stephen Welsh has had the honour of representing Morton, having spent the first half of the abridged 2019-20 season playing out of position under David Hopkin at Cappielow, whilst former Morton Caretaker Manager and all round good guy, Anton McElhone, is now a member of Ange Postecoglou’s backroom staff. In the visitors’ squad, new signing Calvin Miller started his career at Celtic under Brendan Rodgers, making only four first team appearances and enjoying loan spells at Ayr United and Dundee. Efe Ambrose enjoyed a more fruitful spell in Glasgow, winning all three domestic honours, including four league titles. He was a part of the Celtic team which beat Barcelona in 2012, and lost to Morton in 2013. Morton Manager Dougie Imrie once scored an important goal at Celtic Park. Tale of the Tape Morton unsurprisingly don’t have a great record against Celtic in the Scottish Cup, having only beaten them once in the tournament- Eddie Murphy’s extra time strike at Ibrox was enough to ensure a Hampden date for a final with Rangers in 1948, which unfortunately didn’t end as well. Since the turn of the century, we’ve met three times in the Scottish Cup and once in the League Cup. Celtic visited Cappielow for a midweek Fourth Round tie in 2010 and won a narrow match by a single Niall McGinn goal on a bitterly cold night on the Tail O’ The Bank. Morton then travelled to Celtic Park for a League Cup Third Round tie in 2013 and put on an incredible defensive performance, sneaking out with a 1-0 extra time win to shock the cup favourites and the rest of the football world on a night that will go down in folklore as one of the greatest in our modern history, thanks to Dougie Imrie’s extra time penalty. We’ve since made two more visits to Celtic Park, both on Scottish Cup duty in front of paltry crowds, with Celtic posting 3-0 victories on each occasion. Photo - GBR Photographs. Opposition Analysis There’s no hiding from the task at hand, here. Celtic are absolutely formidable opposition. Since losing to St. Mirren on 18th September, they’ve picked up 43 points from 45- only dropping points against Rangers at Ibrox three weeks ago. Whilst Ange Postecoglou will doubtless be tempted to mix things up a bit and give some fringe players an opportunity against lower league opposition, the strength in depth his squad has is such that even if he does, it will provide little respite for Morton. With Georgios Giakoumakis seemingly heading out the exit door to Japan, we may at least be spared his threat, although Celtic don’t exactly find goals hard to come by, regardless of who takes to the pitch on any given day. I spoke to Celtic fan Natasha Meikle (@natashameikle) of A Celtic State Of Mind (@ACSOMPOD) podcast, who is understandably enjoying her team’s work over the course of the season so far, and is looking forward to the visit of Morton, as Celtic begin look to progress in yet another domestic tournament. “It’s been a successful season for the hoops, who sit nine points clear of their local rivals at the top of the SPFL Premiership table. Domestic cup duties are also running smoothly, with Celtic having successfully secured a place in the League Cup Final with last weekend’s 2-0 victory over Kilmarnock at Hampden. The Bhoys will be looking to continue their pursuit of silverware with a victory over Greenock Morton at Celtic Park on Saturday. They are no strangers to trebles in recent years, and that will certainly be the target this time around. On current form, it certainly isn’t out of the question. It will take a monumental effort for Morton to stop those treble ambitions, but let’s not forget ten years ago when the teams went head-to-head in the League Cup and a 97th minute penalty by a certain Dougie Imrie took Morton through after extra time. As for this season’s Celtic side, they have been fond of a late goal themselves, but Postecoglou’s team will be looking to get the job done early on Saturday. Morton’s back line will have their work cut out to deal with a clinical strike force, who on current form will be hard to stop. Who will lead the line for the Hoops will be of particular interest for the Celtic fans this weekend. There is of course the option of the league’s top scorer, Kyogo, who has bagged 16 league goals in 20 appearances so for this season. A telling sign will be whether there is space in the squad for Georgios Giakoumakis. The Greek striker has been heavily linked with a move during this transfer window, with Japanese outfit Urwa Red Diamonds the rumoured front runners to secure his signature. He didn’t feature in the midweek win over St. Mirren due to “injury”, however it remains to be seen if he will even be at the club by the time comes around. If he is, the game is likely to be one he should be expected to start. Of his 19 appearances this season, 15 have been from the bench, so this would be a prime opportunity to rest Kyogo and have Giakoumakis lead the line. Postecoglou likes to keep Scottish football on its toes, and squad rotation is a common occurrence, with numerous changes on a weekly basis. Celtic have a relatively compact fixture list in January, and this tie is likely to present an opportunity for Ange to utilise his large and talented squad he has available to him, with some fringe players being candidates for game time. With Cameron Carter-Vickers recovering from injury, we may see a second start for new signing Kobayashi, although the game may come too soon for a debut for his compatriot Tomoki Iwata. Other players waiting in the wings for more game time include Stephen Welsh, James McCarthy, Yosuke Ideguchi and Oliver Abildgaard. David Turnbull and Sead Haksabanovic have recently returned from injury/suspension, and could also be expected to feature in this tie. Alternatively, Ange might choose to give some first team experience to some of the younger players. Attacking midfielder Rocco Vata and centre half Bosun Lawal have been impressing in the B team, and are on the cusp of a first team call up. This tie could be an ideal opportunity for them to feature. So while the line-up itself is relatively unpredictable, squad rotation is almost a guarantee. Regardless of who starts for Postecoglou’s side, it will be a tough test for Morton. As is always the case when Celtic play domestically, the fans will expect nothing less than a win, and given the form the Bhoys are in, we could see plenty of goals in this one. However, that aforementioned League Cup tie serves as a reminder that anything can happen in cup football…” Photo - GBR Photographs. Betting Guide All odds are supplied by McBookie. All odds correct as of 7pm on 19th January 2023 and are subject to change. Please only bet within your means and visit BeGambleAware if you are struggling. It may come as a surprise to some to see that Morton are the underdogs heading into the tie. The hosts are priced at a slightly conservative 1/33, whilst the draw is 10/1 and Morton to win comes in at 28/1. In spite of what I’ve said, we at the Morton Forum are eternal optimists, so Morton to repeat the feat of 2013 by winning in extra time is 40/1 and Efe Ambrose to score anytime is 20/1. You can buy me a pint when you win big. Match Officials Referee- Kevin Clancy AR 1- Ross MacLeod AR 2- Alastair Mather Fourth Official- Barry Cook VAR- Craig Napier AVAR- Frank Connor
  5. Away Day Guide – Celtic (21st January) Photo – Source Unknown Tickets Tickets can only be purchased in person at Smiths, with NO tickets remaining at Cappielow. Unrestricted view tickets are priced as follows: Adult – £20; Concession £15; Under 13 – £10. Restricted view tickets are priced as follows: Adult – £17; Concession – £12; Under 13 – £7. Disabled Fans Information Disabled away fans will enter through “ES35”. Alexis Dobbin is the Celtic Disablity Access Officer, she based at Celtic Park and is available to discuss any aspects of supporter accessiblity across the club or on a matchday by phone on 0141 551 4373 or via email at alexis.dobbin@celticfc.co.uk. The Celtic Disabled Supporters Association (CDSA) allocate all parking spaces for blue badge holders at Celtic Park. The car parks are located between the East Stand and the Lisbon Lions 2 car park (enter via “ES 27” area on stadium map), and an area of the Jock Stein Upper coach park. These car parks close 1 hour prior to kick-off. Disabled supporters from the away team wishing to request a place in their segregated area should email parking@celticdsa.co.uk or call 07514 059870. Supporters Buses The Gourock Morton Supporters are running four buses. The bus will leave Gourock train station at 10.30am. All four buses are currently FULL, however reserve names are being taken. The cost will be decided on the day, message their page on Facebook or contact Mark on 07847847357 to enquire. The Port Glasgow Morton Travel Club bus will leave from their new location, The Caledonian Bar, at 10.45am. The cost will be decided on the day. Message their page on Facebook or contact Bryan on 07969760292 to book a space. By Train/Bus There are two services an hour to Glasgow Central on the low line, departing Gourock :08 and :38 every hour, as well as one train an hour on the high line, departing Wemyss Bay at :57 every hour. From Glasgow Central, transfer to low level platforms and alight a train bound for Dalmarnock. Both Bridgeton and Dalmarnock stations are walking distance from the stadium. All information taken from the ScotRail website. From Glasgow City Centre, the No. 2, 61, 64, 255 and 240 buses stop at the Forge Shopping Centre located on the Gallowgate, please alight here where you will be approximately 1 mile from the Stadium. By Car Use the postcode G40 3RE for the stadium. The estimated journey time from Cappielow takes around 45 minutes (24.8 miles). Please be aware that parking at and around the stadium is particularly difficult. Pre-Match Photo - Trip Advisor If drinking in the city centre, Blackfriars of Bell Street (36 Bell St, Glasgow G1 1LG) is in Merchant City and offers a spacious pub with the usual amenities. If you are looking for a pint closer to the stadium, The Turnstiles Bar (1257 London Rd, Glasgow G40 3HW) welcomes away fans and is within walking distance of the away end. Photo - Twitter (@LDTEEstore)
  6. (Photo-Reuters) Oh, What A Night… Morton’s Greatest Ever Upset. By Russell Gordon With the tenth anniversary of Morton’s incredible League Cup victory over Celtic approaching in September, I had planned waiting until then to take a trip down memory lane, until fate threw us together again in this season’s Scottish Cup, just to mix things up and spare us a trip to Fir Park (for the time being, anyway). Scene Setter The autumn of 2013 wasn’t a good time to be a Morton fan. After challenging for promotion the previous season, and falling away as we hit the final straight, Allan Moore’s squad was decimated as out of contract players moved en masse to pastures new, and a seemingly more cost-effective squad was brought in to replace them, with ambitions for the season being far more modest this time around. With part timers Dumbarton, Alloa and Cowdenbeath in the division, the thinking appeared to be that there was enough of a buffer to allow a season of consolidation before Morton enjoyed the benefits of the almost inevitable arrival of Hearts and Rangers to the Championship for season 2014-15. However, after a lame exit from the Challenge Cup at Annan, and a league campaign that didn’t start too dreadfully, Morton were hitting the skids, and a relegation battle seemed inevitable. We had however reached the Third Round relatively convincingly. Although taken to extra time at New Bayview, Morton triumphed 6-2 after the extra thirty minutes, to earn a home tie with Montrose, which was comfortably negotiated with a convincing 4-0 scoreline. The previous Saturday’s league match though, an insipid 0-2 home defeat at the hands of Queen of the South which left us ninth in the table, offered little to whet the appetite for what lay ahead as Morton took the trip to Glasgow’s east end. Celtic on the other hand, were going through a period of uncertainty. Having made the Champions League by dispensing Kazakhstani champions Shakhter Karagandy by the skin of their teeth, they were drawn with AC Milan, Ajax, and Barcelona- the first and so far only time to date that four previous champions have been drawn together in the same group of Europe’s most prestigious competition. What may have gone under the radar for the Parkhead faithful that day was the Scottish League Cup draw which paired their favourites with lowly Greenock Morton. A tie that would hardly get the juices flowing at a time they were planning jaunts to three of Europe’s more attractive destinations. Having lost 0-2 in Milan the midweek prior to Morton’s visit, Celtic were to record a routine 2-1 home victory over St. Johnstone whilst we toiled at Cappielow against the Doonhamers. Predictably, Celtic boss Neil Lennon shuffled his pack for the visit of the ‘Ton to Celtic Park. The Teams For the hosts, goalkeeper Lukasz Zaluska replaced the formidable Fraser Forster, with Nir Biton, Tom Rogic, Mikael Lustig and Dylan McGeough all coming into the team that had taken care of Saints the previous weekend. Whilst Celtic mixed it up though, it’s important to point out that this team were no mugs. Of the starting eleven, few would contest that Lustig and Rogic, along with Scott Brown, would go onto become Celtic legends, whilst Zaluska, Ambrose, Mulgrew, Biton, McGoeugh and Pukki all went onto have very credible careers. Only Derk Boerrigter would be happily forgotten down Parkhead way, whilst Virgil van Dijk would become arguably one of the best players of the modern era, winning every honour the club game has had to offer since joining Celtic. Morton, on the other hand, lined up with a squad which on paper didn’t stand a chance against their more illustrious opponents. Only Scott Taggart, Faoud Bachirou, and David O’Brien from the previous season started the match, supplemented by a collection of below-average journeymen and some guy who would go onto manage Morton a few years later. After promising starts to their Morton careers, which included a delightful 4-2 win at St. Mirren Park to win the Renfrewshire Cup for the first time since 2005, the stars of Habai, Peciar, Cham and Hands were beginning to dim, and dim quite rapidly. The latter’s quite dreadful penalty in the home defeat to Queens the previous Saturday summed up how Morton’s season was going, and confirmed that he certainly wouldn’t be taking the next penalty Morton were awarded, whenever that would be. Celtic striker Anthony Stokes looks to the heavens as another chance goes a-begging. (Photo-SNS) The Match With Celtic Park’s top tier completely closed, a paltry crowd of 16,998, over 2000 of whom were supporting the visitors, arrived to see what most expected to be a routine home victory, and probably with a good few to spare. What the majority of the crowd got was an insipid performance from their team, against an uncompromising Morton side who restricted them to as few chances as possible in the first 45 minutes. Biton and Rogic both headed wide, whilst Morton keeper Nicolas Caraux tipped a Charlie Mulgrew free kick over the bar. Morton were then to suffer a blow that would have, in this observer’s humble opinion, a catastrophic effect on our season as a whole. David O’Brien came off second best in a challenge with Dylan McGeough and was withdrawn from proceedings with a shoulder injury. Whilst he would briefly return months later, the game was over for him, and regrettably, he was never the same again. On the night, O’Brien was replaced by Tony Wallace, and Morton went onto complete part one of Mission: Impossible. We went in at the break with a stalemate. When the teams re-emerged, not much changed. Morton forced a couple of corners, but offered little threat, whilst Celtic had a few of their own but were again left frustrated. On the hour, our big chance came, as Gambian striker Kabba-Modou Cham went through on goal. He was stopped in his tracks by a combination of Efe Ambrose and Virgil van Dijk, to the tune of a couple of thousand voices from behind the goal screaming for a penalty, but to no avail. As time wore on, Celtic boss Lennon hooked Rogic, McGeough and the hapless Boerrigter for the more established stars (of the time at least) of Matthews, Stokes and Commons, whilst Archie Campbell replaced Cham, who had more than ran his race. A succession of Celtic corners came to nothing, and late in the game, it was the visitors who could’ve sneaked it when Dougie Imrie’s free kick a couple of minutes from time flew about a yard over Zaluska’s crossbar. So after an incredible defensive performance, Morton had managed to stop the best team in the land, and were half an hour away from chancing their luck with a penalty shoot-out for a place in the Quarter Finals. Nicolas Caraux and his defence draw yet another sigh of relief as Mikael Lustig takes his turn to fluff his lines. (Photo-SNS) Extra Time Whilst that was surely the best-case scenario from a Morton perspective out of the many that were going through all our minds, there was one which hadn’t really been considered. Five minutes into the first period of extra time, with Celtic again trying to knock the door down, Teemu Pukki twice tried to pass the colossal Jonathan Page, before team mate Anthony Stokes tried his luck, also with no joy. The ball broke to Reece Hands, who spread it wide to Tony Wallace on the left. Wallace then played a fantastic ball down the wing to Archie Campbell, who made headway towards the penalty box. As he reached the area, and was approached by Ambrose, the future Morton star slipped and made contact with the ball with his outsretched left hand, and this time referee Bobby Madden did point to the spot. Morton had a penalty. At Celtic Park. With Hands having missed the previous Saturday, Dougie Imrie was handed the responsibility of giving the ‘Ton a shock lead. With a couple of thousand pairs of nervous eyes looking from the other end of Celtic Park willing the net to bulge, Imrie stepped up, and with aplomb rifled the ball low down the middle past the despairing Zaluska and into the net, resulting in absolute bedlam amongst the away support and the grandstand finish of all grandstand finishes, with at least 25 minutes still to hang on. Reece Hands stung Zaluska’s gloves only a minute after Morton took their shock lead, but it was one-way traffic after that. Celtic had made all their changes by now. Van Dijk was thrown up top to win everything and anything at all costs. Chances came and went for Celtic, and Morton stood firm. It has to be said that a combination of good luck, tremendous (sometimes desperate) defending and horrific finishing helped our cause. Stokes shot wide before Commons and van Dijk were both foiled by Caraux as the corner count increased. Van Dijk was again terribly unfortunate to see his effort drift wide of Caraux’s left hand post, as Madden blew for the end of the first period of extra time. Only fifteen minutes to go. A series of long diagonals and throw ins to the makeshift target man were snuffed out by the Morton defence before we briefly threatened through Tony Wallace, who was quickly closed down by the onrushing Zaluska before normal service resumed. Caraux palmed a Lustig header wide as the pressure was ramped up, and it was the Swede who was to come so agonisingly close to equalising as another long diagonal to Van Dijk was directed to Kris Commons. The Scotland winger headed across goal to Lustig, who slid in at the back post, only to see his effort ripple the side netting. What a shame. Yet another long diagonal met the head of Van Dijk a minute later, but with Caraux in No Man’s Land, Page arrived to lash the Dutchman’s tame goal-bound effort away to safety before it reached the line. Moore made his final change as Mark McLaughlin replaced Campbell, and as we entered stoppage time, Charlie Mulgrew rattled Caraux’s left hand post before one final corner was headed wide. Bobby Madden blew for time, and the mother of all shocks was confirmed. For a game played in such a ghostly environment, the whistle was met by a cacophony of noise from both ends. The booing from the home support, sounding almost as sweet as the visitors’ roar. Celebration time for Peciar, Page, McLaughlin and Taggart in the aftermath of Morton's incredible backs-to-the-wall triumph. (Photo-SNS) The Aftermath Personally, I’ll never forget the sheer joy of marching down London Road chanting “We’re Greenock Morton, we’re better than you!” in the direction of the disappointed Celtic fans, and like many of us, have since never failed to bring that great night up in conversation whenever they get a wee bit too uppity about themselves. What was to follow is not as happy a tale. In spite of the result, it wasn’t a good week for either manager. On the morning of the game, Neil Lennon was banned for driving for six months for speeding on the A9, before facing up to perhaps the most humiliating individual result of his career, but tragically, Allan Moore lost his brother Steven, who suddenly died in Turkey, the day after the match. For the clubs, things didn’t pan out well either. Celtic of course, won the league, but in the absence of Rangers, pressure was on Lennon to deliver trebles, with the main source of competition out of the running in the league, and a wounded animal in the cups. They meekly exited their Champions League group with only a home win against Ajax to show from their six matches, and a home Scottish Cup defeat to Aberdeen leaving them with a historic “single” for their efforts in 2013-14. Morton however, were to suffer the worst season perhaps in our history- a 1-3 defeat to Dundee four days after the visit to Celtic Park saw us fall to the bottom of the league, and we never rose above that position all season. We were controversially knocked out the League Cup by St. Johnstone in the Quarter Finals, and Moore was relieved of his duties after a 1-5 home defeat by Livingston a mere two months after that heroic evening. He was of course replaced by the hapless Kenny Shiels, and a bad season got worse, culminating in an embarrassing relegation and the ultimate humiliation of a 2-10 hounding by promotion-chasing Hamilton. Whilst there was no joy to follow on from that fantastic night though, football’s all about memories, and ironically the fact that such a poor team succeeded where so many better ones have failed made that particular win so much sweeter. Scottish League Cup Third Round, 24th September 2013, Celtic Park. Celtic: Zaluska, Ambrose, van Dijk, Mulgrew, Lustig, Biton, Brown, Boerrigter (Commons 83),McGeough (Matthews 74), Rogic (Stokes 65), Pukki. Unused Substitutes: Fasan, Balde. Morton: Caraux, Taggart, Fitzpatrick, Peciar, Page, Imrie, O’Brien (Wallace 39), Hands, Habai, Bachirou, Cham (Campbell 78 (McLaughlin 120)). Unused Substitutes: Gaston, Russell. Goals: Imrie (97,pen) Referee: Bobby Madden. Attendance: 16,998.
  7. Dean, Craig and Louise discuss the signing of Ally Roy, analyse yesterday's 1-0 defeat to Hamilton and preview next week's trip to Celtic Park.
  8. Dean, Craig and Louise discuss the signing of Ally Roy, analyse yesterday's 1-0 defeat to Hamilton and preview next week's trip to Celtic Park.
  9. Hamilton Academical vs Morton – Match Preview by Dean McKinnon Dougie Imrie will lead his Morton side out into his old stomping ground on Saturday as The Ton look to close the gap at the top end of the Championship table. Imrie, who has scored for both Morton and Hamilton at New Douglas Park, will be forced to take in tomorrow’s match from the main stand, having been shown two bookings in quick succession in last week’s feisty battle against Partick. With The Ton now four matches without a win, the Cowshed faithful will be hoping for a positive result to keep pace with Queens Park and Dundee at the head of the table. Photo - GBR Photographs. Squad Update Fans’ favourite Efe Ambrose may be forced to sit on the sideline this week after suffering a broken nose in last week’s foul tempered affair in Maryhill. Lewis McGrattan will be looking to force his way back into the manager’s starting XI after being replaced by debutant Calvin Miller last week. Imrie bolstered his attacking options this week with the addition of striker Ally Roy, who joins from Belfast side Glentoran on loan for the rest of the campaign. The twenty-five year old hitman joined the Northern Irish side from Queen of the South, where he scored four goals in their ill-fated Championship campaign last term. Current Connections There are plenty of connections with our Lanarkshire counterparts, particularly in the dugout. Dougie Imrie is a Hamilton legend, making 240 league appearances over two spells at the club. It’ll be of little surprise to anyone that assistant manager Andy Millen played with Hamilton. He spent three years at the club, turning out for Accies 119 times during this stay. Morton skipper Grant Gillespie spent nine seasons in Lanarkshire, winning the Championship title and establishing himself as a mainstay in their Premiership side. Explosive winger Jai Quitongo spent a short period of his youth career with Accies. Hamilton are the 8th club that full back Michael Doyle has represented. The athletic defender spent part of his youth career with the Lanarkshire side, returning to Accies this summer following two years at Queens Park. Photo - GBR Photographs. Tale of the Tape A first half rout from the hosts secured an emphatic win for Morton on Matchday 10. An eighth minute header from Jack Baird was followed up with goals from Jaze Kabia, skipper Grant Gillespie and Robbie Muirhead to put Dougie Imrie’s side up 4-0 at the interval. As is often the case in matches like these, the second period was slightly more subdued, with a second goal of the afternoon for Robbie Muirhead rounding off a pleasing afternoon’s work for the Cappielow side. Both teams shared the spoils on the opening day of the season in Lanarkshire. Poacher Andy Ryan opened the scoring in the 12th minute, nodding home at close range from a corner that was poorly defended by the visitors. The Ton rallied shortly before the interval when Accies’ Shaun Want felled Jaze Kabia, a foul that the referee adjudged to have been committed inside the box. Things went from bad to worse for Want, who was shown a second caution for the challenge. Former Hamilton man Grant Gillespie made no mistake from the penalty spot, with the visitors leaving frustrated that they could not take advantage of their extra man in the second half. Opposition Analysis There is no point in sugar coating this – Hamilton are struggling at the moment. Bottom of the table, and with the least number of goals in the league, the Lanarkshire side have a serious task on their hands if they are to remain in the second tier beyond this season. Recent league results have offered precious little in terms of encouragement for a side who are six points behind 9th placed Arbroath, albeit they do have a game in hand. A midweek fightback in the SPFL Trust Trophy Quarter Final, turning around a 2-1 deficit to Lanarkshire rivals Clyde may prove a catalyst ahead of Saturday’s match. This is usually the part in our match preview where we welcome an opposition supporter to give us an insight into their season so far, and their thoughts heading into the match. Over the past few weeks, Hamilton have allegedly banned supporters for being overly critical of the management of the club on social media. This hyperbolic chain of events has been met with threats of legal action and supporter boycotts. In light of this, we have decided against seeking the views of any Accies fans. In what is surely nothing more than a random coincidence, former Morton chief executive, master of all things Twitter and fox catcher extraordinaire Dave MacKinnon is currently employed by Hamilton. I’m sure all Morton fans wish him nothing but success in the role. Photo - GBR Photographs. Betting Guide All match odds are provided by McBookie. All odds are correct as of 7am on 11th November 2023 and are subject to change. Please only gamble within your means and visit BeGambleAware if you are struggling. Despite their home advantage, Hamilton are outsiders for Saturday’s tie, pegged at 7/4 to claim a vital three points. The draw prices at 11/5, with Dougie Imrie’s side 11/8 to emerge victorious. If you fancy Jack Baird to find the net in consecutive matches, the defender is 26/1 to open the scoring or 10/1 to score anytime. Full back Liam Grimshaw is 4/5 to be cautioned at any time. Match Officials Referee – Duncan Williams AR1 – Ross Macleod AR2 – Ross Nelson
  10. Away Day Guide – Hamilton (14th January) Photo – footballgroundguide.com Tickets - Tickets can be purchased by calling the Ticket Office on 01698 368650, at the club shop on matchday or on the Hamilton website. Prices are as follows: Adult £20; Concessions (OAPs, U18s) - £10. Please note that disabled and carer tickets must be purchased at the stadium on matchday. Disabled Supporters Information- Away supporters can enter via the exit gate adjacent to turnstile 12. Those ambulant can use the stairs to enter the North Stand, or those in wheelchairs can use the spaces behind the goal, at ground level trackside. There is cover here in the event of particularly inclement weather, but additional space can be allocated in the front of the East Stand, if not in use, (also ground level, but a normal pitch side view as opposed to behind the goal). Stewards are always on hand to assist where required. There is a designated Refuge Point in the first floor landing area, opposite the lift, beside the main staircase, in the event of an emergency. The sign is also in braille. Accessible seats are available in all stands for ambulant disabled. Away supporters can use the disabled toilet beside turnstiles 4-6. There are five designated accessible car park bays for away supporters these are located in the North Stand car park and accessible through turnstiles 7-12. Supporters Buses – The Gourock Morton Supporters bus will leave Gourock train station at 1pm. The cost will be decided on the day, message their page on Facebook or contact Mark on 07847847357 to book a space. The Port Glasgow Morton Travel Club bus will leave from their new location, The Caledonian Bar, at 1.30pm. The cost will be decided on the day. Message their page on Facebook or contact Bryan on 07969760292 to book a space. By Train – There are two services an hour to Glasgow Central on the low line, departing Gourock :08 and :38 every hour, as well as one train an hour on the high line, departing Wemyss Bay at :57 every hour. There are several services every hour on low levels to Hamilton West, departing Glasgow Central at :15, :28, :45, and :57. All information taken from the ScotRail website. By Car – Use the postcode ML3 0FT for the stadium. The approximate journey time from Cappielow via the M8 and M74 is 41 minutes without traffic. Parking is available at the main stand car park, at the north end, or in the underground car park below Morrison’s, beside turnstiles 10-12. Arrangements to specifically drop any spectators off at front door area can be accommodated if requested/required. Pre Match – The Academical Vaults (26 Burnbank Rd, Hamilton, ML3 9AA) is a two minute walk from Hamilton West train station and a ten minute walk to the stadium. Bar West (165 Almada St, Hamilton ML3 0ET) is a four minute walk from Hamilton West train station and a thirteen minute walk to the stadium. Photo - MatchPint.co.uk
  11. Dean, Alan, Darren A and Ewan analyse Saturday's ill-tempered 2-1 defeat at Firhill and preview Saturday's trip to Hamilton.
  12. Dean, Alan, Darren A and Ewan analyse Saturday's ill-tempered 2-1 defeat at Firhill and preview Saturday's trip to Hamilton.
  13. Partick Thistle vs Morton – Match Preview by Dean McKinnon The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away. The Cowshed faithful were delighted with the news that Liam Grimshaw, Robbie Crawford and skipper Grant Gillespie had all extended their stay at the Tail o’ the Bank this week. Morton fans were however, left disappointed after news broke that the Cappielow pitch had fallen foul of the weather ahead of Monday’s highly anticipated showdown with Ayr United. Imrie’s men will now travel to Firhill, the venue of his side’s last league defeat, which was over three months ago, in search of another positive result on the road. Photo - GBR Photographs. Squad Update The visitors boast a fully-fit squad for their trip to Glasgow’s west end. Dougie Imrie bolstered his options on the left hand side this week with the arrival of Calvin Miller at Cappielow. The Celtic youth graduate provides strength-in-depth both on the left wing and at left-back. Michael Garrity has returned to Greenock following his loan spell across the water at Dumbarton. Garrity made ten appearances during his time with The Sons, scoring once. Having already made league appearances for both Dumbarton and parent club Morton this season, Garrity cannot play for a third side this season, and thus looks set to compete for a place in Dougie Imrie’s side. Kyle Jacobs, Lewis McGregor and Darren Hynes all exited the club this week. Jacobs, who was previously club captain, had been on loan at FC Edinburgh during the first half of the season after it became apparent that he was not in the gaffer’s immediate plans. Hynes and McGregor had both been squad players at Cappielow this term, receiving little in the way of game time. I’m sure I speak for all Morton fans when wishing all three players the best of luck in their future endeavours. Current Connections Robbie Muirhead, Jai Quitongo and Robbie Crawford have all had fleeting spells with Partick. Muirhead scored twice in eight league appearances in a loan spell from Dundee United in 2015. Quitongo made 13 league appearances following the culmination of his first spell at Cappielow, with Crawford spending the latter part of last season in Maryhill. Brian Graham and Scott Tiffoney both began their senior careers on Sinclair Street. Graham made his debut for Morton in 2006, before moving onto Raith Rovers in 2011. Graham has since made rather incendiary comments regarding his former employers, cementing his rather fractious relationship with his first senior club. Tiffoney joined Morton’s academy in 2016, having failed to make the grade at St Mirren. He would go onto join Livingston in the summer of 2018, with an administrative error on Morton’s part meaning the club were due no compensation for his services. The winger re-joined The Ton on loan in the first part of the 2018/19 season in an unremarkable loan spell. Photo - GBR Photographs. Ian McCall had a spell in the Cappielow dugout during the Hugh Scott ‘era’. There is also one more slightly more tenuous Morton connection, with former Morton player Tommy Turner’s son, Kyle, currently employed by the Jags. Tale of the Tape Morton’s previous trip to Firhill was not a pleasant experience for the visitors, despite an impressive start. Robbie Muirhead’s blistering free kick from 30 yards opened the scoring, with Brian Graham and Kevin Holt pegging The Ton back to ensure that the hosts led at the break. Aaron Muirhead, Scott Tiffoney and Anton Dowds all scored in the second half to round off a frustratingly comfortable afternoon for the Maryhill side. Dougie Imrie’s side gained their revenge six weeks later with a 2-1 win at Cappielow. Efe Ambrose headed home from a corner, scoring his first goal for the club and celebrating with his customary backflip. Dowds levelled the contest on the hour mark before Cammy Blues’ goal twelve minutes from time ensured his side gained all three points. Opposition Analysis Partick have had mixed fortunes so far this term. The Glasgow side are the league’s top goalscorers, finding the net on no fewer than 40 occasions to date. Their impressive attacking prowess has, however, been matched with an incredibly generous defence, with only basement side Hamilton conceding more goals this term. The Maryhill side have shown impressive home form of late, with a 3-0 win over Arbroath, a 3-2 victory over Ayr United and a 5-1 demolition of Inverness in their last three home fixtures. Photo - GBR Photographs. Betting Guide All match odds are provided by McBookie. Odds are correct as of 7.30am on 5th January 2023 and are subject to change. Please only bet within your means and visit BeGambleAware if you are struggling. Partick are billed as favourites for Saturday’s encounter, priced at 21/20 to emerge victorious. The draw is priced at 12/5, with the visitors 11/5 to claim all three points. Jai Quitongo, who is no stranger to the referee’s notebook, is 9/4 to be booked first. There may also be value in Aaron Muirhead to be carded at anytime, which is chalked at 7/4. Match Officials Referee – Alan Muir AR1 – Gary Hilland AR2 – John Stewart
  14. Away Day Guide – Partick Thistle (7th January) Photo - StadiumGuide.co.uk Tickets – Admission prices are as follows - Adults £20, Concessions (Over 65s, students, disabled and carer) £15, Under 16s £5. Supporters can purchase tickets here. Disabled Supporters Info – The disabled section at Firhill, for both home and away fans, can be accessed via the large red disabled access gate at the North West corner of the stadium, where the John Lambie Stand and the Colin Weir Stand meet. Disabled toilets are situated as follows; Colin Weir Stand – adjacent to the wheelchair section John Lambie Stand – in the concourse at the rear of the stand. Tickets for the wheelchair section, situated in the Colin Weir Stand, will be available to purchase (cash only) on the day from the red disabled access gate. Supporters Buses – The Gourock Morton Supporters bus is currently FULL and will depart from Gourock Train Station at 1pm. The price will be decided on the day. Message their page on Facebook or contact Mark on 07847847357 to book a space. The Port Glasgow Morton Travel Club bus will leave The Caledonian Bar at 2pm. The cost will be decided on the day. Message their page on Facebook or contact Bryan on 07979760291 to book a space. By Train – Due to ongoing industrial action, there are no services running on either Inverclyde line on Saturday. By Car – Use the postcode G20 7AL for the stadium. Without traffic, the estimated journey time from Cappielow to Firhill is 29 minutes via the M8. There is free on-street parking on Garscube Road and adjacent streets on route to the stadium. Firhill Road usually closes between 2.30pm and 5pm. Pre-Match – Photo - GlasgowGuide.co.uk If you’re looking to break up the journey from Greenock to Maryhill, the Toby Jug is a thirty second walk from Glasgow Central on Hope Street (97 Hope St, Glasgow G2 6LL). Upon arrival in Maryhill, Munns (610 Maryhill Rd, Glasgow G20 7ED) is the closest pub to the stadium and is around a five-minute walk from the away turnstiles. Munns opens at 11am and is a traditional football pub which welcomes home fans and away fans. They sell 35ml spirits, have a pool table and dart board and a separate lounge area. Photo - GlasgowGuide
  15. Morton v Ayr United – Match Preview by Russell Gordon With an unexpectedly successful 2022 having come to a close, Ayr United will first foot Morton at Cappielow Park supported by Dalrada Technology for a mouth-watering clash between two of the Championship’s promotion chasers. Having remained unbeaten in the league for a full three months to this point, confidence will be high amongst Dougie Imrie’s squad for the visit of an Ayr team that will be licking their wounds after being knocked off the top of the tree just before Christmas by a Dundee side who appear to be making ominous strides in the title race. Photo - GBR Photographs. Squad News Whilst there are no injury concerns to report, we have the elephant in the room of the recently opened transfer window. Any concerns about Liam Grimshaw’s future were allayed by the Hogmanay announcement that he’s extended his stay at Cappielow until at least the season’s end, but rumours about Georgian cracks Dynamo Tbilisi’s interest in Lewis Strapp have resurfaced in recent days, although I’d expect Strapp to take his usual place in the side. The news of club captain Grant Gillespie and midfield compatriot Robbie Crawford signing new deals have also provided welcome cheer for the 'Ton faithful. Current Connections There’s rarely a shortage of players to have represented both clubs, such is the locality, nature of the Scottish Championship and lack of imagination in the signing policy of both clubs’ former manager, David Hopkin. However, only goalkeeper Aidan McAdams and Ayr skipper Sean McGinty remain from Hopkin’s band of brothers, along with the popular Andy Murdoch, whose spell at the Morton preceded Hopkin’s calamitous tenure at Cappielow. In the Morton squad, Robbie Crawford, Alan Lithgow and Jack Baird can all count The Honest Men amongst their former employers. Assistant Manager Andy Millen can of course also list Ayr as one of the many clubs he represented in his nomadic playing career. Tale of the Tape Ayr have the slight edge over the three fixtures so far this season, taking the spoils from the first league meeting at Cappielow in September. Mark McKenzie’s second half goal doubled Ayr’s advantage after Dipo Akinyemi had given them a first half lead, and a late Robbie Muirhead counter only proved scant consolation as they left with all three points. Morton however were to come out on top later that month in an SPFL Trust Trophy tie at Cappielow. Lewis McGregor’s early strike, through a ruck of bodies was to give the ‘Ton an early lead before Josh Mullin restored parity before half time. The second half saw no more goals but a glut of red cards as Ayr’s Paul Smith became the first victim of the erratic Craig Napier, before Morton’s Jai Quitongo and Jack Baird followed him down the tunnel for early baths later in the half. It was very much a match ruined by poor officiating but with the game tied at 1-1 after 90 minutes, we went straight to a penalty shoot-out, with former Morton “favourite” McGinty proving the fall guy, missing the only kick of the contest to send Morton through. It was Ayr’s turn to host Morton in November for a game that had all the ingredients to be a cracker. A Morton side that had sneaked into the title race on the back of an unbeaten run, thanks in no small part to a miserly defence that hadn’t conceded in four games appeared a much different proposition for an Ayr team who had easily picked their pockets a couple of months previous. But that long run without conceding came to an abrupt end after only three minutes when Alex Kirk nodded Ayr into the lead. That lead wasn’t to last long however, as a back post Jai Quitongo header from a corner levelled things up and sent the Morton fans behind the Railway End goal in to raptures. Try as they might, neither side could find a winner and they had to settle for a share of the spoils from a game that could easily have gone either way. Whether it was a point gained or two dropped by Morton, time will tell. Photo - GBR Photographs. Opposition Analysis Consecutive defeats to Partick Thistle and Dundee have undoubtedly been setbacks for Lee Bullen’s side’s challenge for the title, and they’ll be looking to get back on track at Cappielow against Morton. They will however have to do that without their goalscorer from the previous meeting, Alex Kirk, who was injured in November’s 2-2 draw against Inverness in the Highlands, and the suspended David Bangala, after the Frenchman saw red in last Friday’s Somerset reverse against Dundee. Jordan Houston, Frankie Musonda and Brad Young have also missed out in recent weeks and could again be doubts for the Cappielow trip. I spoke to Ayr fan Marc Dunlop (@Marco_Ayr), who wasn’t terribly optimistic about his favourites’ chances of picking up three points. “The Honest Men head to Cappielow on Monday hoping to rediscover a winning formula, which has eluded them of late. Poor performances and injuries to key players have caught up with Lee Bullen’s men, and the last two results reflect this. Most supporters will agree that the defeat to Dundee was coming, but the manner of the defeat will be what hurt most. Ayr were well off the pace and didn’t come close to scoring, whilst an ex-youth product in Luke McCowan twisted the dagger in further with his two fine goals. Is this a mid-season blip? Or have we been over-achieving in the first half of the season and now will start to slip out if the promotion race? What is certain is that recent performances have been well below the standard set by the manager. Everyone connected with the club will be hoping we can bounce back relatively quickly. Defensive pairing Musonda and Kirk are likely to remain side-lined for this fixture. The game looks to have come too early for the Zambian internationals Musonda, who has been out for a month with a hamstring problem, whilst Arsenal loanee Kirk is back training with his parent club and expected to return to Ayrshire in later in January. With Bangala also suspended following last weekend’s red card, it’ll be interesting to see how Bullen patches up an already light defence. Squad depth was always going to pose a problem for a club of our size, so hopefully the team can come together in this challenging period and give the expected large travelling support a performance to be proud of. An intriguing fixture awaits, and I’m really looking forward to my visit to Greenock. I’d snap your hand off just now for a point though! See you all at Cappielow, and come on you Honest Men!” Photo - GBR Photographs. Betting Guide All odds are supplied by McBookie. All odds correct as of 5pm on 31st December 2022 and are subject to change. Please only bet within your means and visit BeGambleAware if you are struggling. Home advantage probably sees Morton head into the match as favourites at 23/20 with Ayr at 2/1 and the draw 12/5. Captain Grant Gillespie is 12/1 to celebrate his new deal with the first goal, and Morton half time/full time comes in at 13/5. Match Officials Referee- Peter Stuart AR 1- Graham Chambers AR 2- George King.
  16. Dean, Alan and Craig discuss Morton's 2-2 comeback draw with Raith, Imrie's one year anniversary in the Cappielow dugout and the upcoming January transfer window.
  17. Dean, Alan and Craig discuss Morton's 2-2 comeback draw with Raith, Imrie's one year anniversary in the Cappielow dugout and the upcoming January transfer window.
  18. Raith Rovers vs Morton – Match Preview by Dean McKinnon The Ton travel through to Kirkcaldy this evening for the final fixture of what has been an incredibly successful year for the Greenock side. With popular manager Dougie Imrie celebrating one year in post this week, it seems an appropriate time to reflect on the rejuvenation inside Cappielow that has been inspired by the gaffer. With a popular and successful team on the pitch, and Morton Club Together attracting external investment and finding their feet inside Cappielow, the Ton faithful must surely reflect on this year as one of the most enjoyable in recent memory. Photo - GBR Photographs. Squad News The Morton manager will surely look towards a more recognised starting XI for this clash, having rotated heavily in the penalty shootout defeat to Raith Rovers in the SPFL Trust Trophy a fortnight ago. Darragh O’Connor, Alan Lithgow, Darren Hynes, Carlo Pignatiello, Alex King, Lewis McGregor and Jaze Kabia all found themselves starting against Raith, but it appears unlikely that Imrie will deviate this far from his core squad for tonight’s encounter. That being said, promising young star Alex King, following two stunning goals in two sub appearances, may have done enough to stake a claim for a starting berth against the Fife side. Current Connections Morton captain Grant Gillespie turned out for the Kirkcaldy side in 2018/19, making 27 appearances during his tenure. Raith Rovers are also one of the eleven Scottish clubs that assistant manager Andy Millen played for. Andy’s son, Ross Millen, now plies his trade with the Fife side, turning out in the cup defeat at Starks Park a fortnight ago. Tale of the Tape Both sides have won their home fixture this season. Raith edged out Dougie Imrie’s side 2-1 on Matchday 3 at Stark’s Park, with goals from Liam Dick and Aidan Connolly in the second half. Cammy Blues halved the arrears with ten minutes to go, but the hosts held firm to claim their first points of the season. Morton claimed maximum points Matchday 11 in dramatic fashion. Kieran Ngwenya clumsily hauled down Jai Quitongo as he bore down on Jamie McDonald’s goal inside the second minute of stoppage time. Skipper Grant Gillespie converted from the spot to ensure that all three points remained in Greenock. Photo - GBR Photographs. Opposition Analysis Raith have good reason to be unhappy with their league campaign thus far. Despite retraining the spine of a squad that finished in fifth spot last season, they cannot appear to propel themselves up the table. Ian Murray’s side have an encouraging record at home, despite their recent 5-2 defeat to Queens Park and a frustrating 1-1 draw with struggling Arbroath. I spoke with Raith fan Dennis Hamilton, who appeared pessimistic in his side’s ability to win this tie – “I’m not overly confident about this one if I’m being honest. It seems to be one step forward and two steps back with Rovers at the moment. Last week’s draw with Arbroath was a frustrating one, especially conceding on the brink of half time after getting the early goal. Unless something drastic changes then I think hovering around the relegation zone will be our fate this season. I think this one will finish 1-1.” Betting Guide All match odds are provided by McBookie. Odds are correct as of 7am on 23rd December 2022 and are subject to change. Please only bet within your means and visit BeGambleAware if you are struggling. The bookies believe that home advantage will give Raith the edge, pegged at 13/10 to win. Both the draw and an away win are priced at 21/10. Given that all goals between the sides this season have been scored in the second half, backing both teams to score in the second half at 13/5 may be worth some investment. Jai Quitongo to be the first player booked prices at 9/4. If you fancy skipper Grant Gillespie to once again find the net you can back him to score anytime at 9/2. Match Officials Referee – Peter Stuart AR1 – Graham Chambers AR2 – George King Photo - GBR Photographs.
  19. Away Day Guide - Raith Rovers (23rd December) Photo - Reddit Tickets Click here to purchase tickets. Tickets are priced at £20 for adults, £13 for U21s/OAPs and £8 for U16s. Disabled Supporters Information Wheelchairs User supporters and their personal assistants can be allocated in the Main Stand. Where this stand is not open for general use, wheelchair users will have the option of using the Penman Family Stand. In these circumstances, where wheelchair guests would prefer not to sit in what would be a ‘home’ stand they will be accommodated in the McDermid Stand. Toilet facilities will be available however food outlets will not. There are 14 car park spaces in the North Car Park reserved for blue badge holders. These are allocated on a first come basis to home and away supporters. The main point of contact is Raith’s Disability Access Officer, Margie Robertson. You can reach her by emailing SLO@raithrovers.net. Supporters Buses The Gourock Morton Supporters bus will depart from Gourock Train Station at 5.10pm. The bus is now FULL. The price will be decided on the day. Message their page on Facebook or contact Mark on 07847847357 to book a space. By Train There are two services an hour to Glasgow Central on the low line, departing Gourock :08 and :38 every hour, as well as one train an hour on the high line, departing Wemyss Bay at :57 every hour. From Glasgow Central there are services to Edinburgh, with the option to transfer to Glasgow Queen Street for faster services to the East Coast. At Edinburgh, alight at either Edinburgh Haymarket or Waverley, onto services bound for either Perth or Arbroath. All information taken from the ScotRail website. By Car Use postcode KY1 1SA for the stadium. From Cappielow, the journey should take around 1hr30mins via the M8 and A921. Limited on-street parking is available around the stadium. Pre-Match Upon arrival in Kirkcaldy, The Novar Bar (17 Nicol St, Kirkcaldy KY1 1NY) is a regular pre-match haunt for both home and away supporters. The Novar is around a 12 minute walk (0.6 miles) from the stadium. Photo - Kingdom Taverns
  20. Morton vs Queens Park – Match Preview by Dean McKinnon. Whilst the Cappielow pitch suffers amidst the sub-zero snap, Dougie Imrie’s side have been anything but frosty on Sinclair Street this season. The Ton have claimed maximum points in five of their eight outings in Inverclyde this season, as they prepare to welcome Championship newcomers Queens Park, the last side to visit the Tail o’ the Bank on league business this season. Photo - GBR Photographs. Squad Update The Morton manager will surely look towards a more recognised starting XI for this clash, having rotated heavily in last week’s penalty shootout defeat to Raith Rovers in the SPFL Trust Trophy. Darragh O’Connor, Alan Lithgow, Darren Hynes, Carlo Pignatiello, Alex King, Lewis McGregor and Jaze Kabia all found themselves starting against Raith, but it appears unlikely that Imrie will deviate this far from his core squad for tomorrow’s encounter. That been said, promising young star Alex King, following two stunning goals in two sub appearances, may have done enough to stake a claim for a starting berth against the Spiders. Current Connections Queens Park was the final club second-in-command Andy Millen played for, in a playing career that saw him turn out for eleven Scottish clubs. Morton skipper Grant Gillespie and attacker Jai Quitongo both joined Dougie Imrie’s squad from Queens Park in the summer, having spent two seasons each with the Spiders, assisting their ascension to Scotland’s second tier. Lee Kilday served The Ton with distinction in a five year stint, clinching League One and making a sub appearance in the League Cup Semi Final in 2016, albeit a very brief one. Jason Naismith, and more recently Josh McPake, have both had brief loan spells with the Ton, joining from St Mirren and Rangers respectively. Tale of the Tape Morton’s impressive unbeaten run began against Queens Park on 4th October. Following a humiliating 5-1 defeat in the hands of Partick Thistle, Dougie Imrie rejuvenated his side for a midweek trip to Ochilview to face an impressive looking Queens Park. Morton’s forwards combined, as goals from Jaze Kabia and Robbie Muirhead denied Queens Park Championship top-spot and clinched a vital three points for the Greenock side. Photo - GBR Photographs. Opposition Analysis The Spiders will enter tomorrow’s match every bit as confident as their hosts. In similar fashion to The Ton, the Glasgow side are unbeaten since being hosed 5-0 by Ayr United on 8th October. Their impressive run of form has included a 4-0 win at Firhill, hitting Raith Rovers for five as well as a comfortable 4-0 win against strugglers Hamilton in the last set of Championship fixtures a fortnight ago. Ahead of tomorrow’s match, I spoke to Enzo Tamagnini (@SpidersTalkPod), who spoke of his side’s impressive run of form – “The past month or so has been fruitful for Queen's Park. We've moved up to third in the league within two points of leaders Ayr, and progressed in both the Scottish and Challenge Cups. There have been no shortage of goals either. Over the past five games, Dom Thomas has bagged five, Simon Murray four, and Grant Savoury three, with a few others chipping in along the way. They'll be facing the best defence in the league this week at Cappielow however, who are unlikely to give them as many opportunities as other sides have. The last time we met Morton was bitterly disappointing for Queen's. We'd come off a decent run of three wins, with the Greenock side not yet having started their (ongoing) incredible run of form. There's no question for me that Dougie Imrie got the better of Owen Coyle tactically that evening at Ochilview and the better side won. With how tight this league is, a victory could put either side in a great position moving into the second half of the season. Although I would be quite happy to take a draw, I believe this team has it in them to sneak a win at what has become a very difficult place to go; I'm not a gambling man, but if I were I wouldn't be touching this game!” Photo - GBR Photographs. Betting Guide All match odds are provided by McBookie. Odds are correct as of 6pm on 15th December 2022 and are subject to change. Please only bet within your means and visit BeGambleAware if you are struggling. The hosts enter this match as favourites, pegged at 21/20 to retain all three points. The draw prices at 11/5, with 12/5 your reward if you back the Spiders to win. Given the host’s defensive solidity this term, you can back Dougie Imrie’s side to win to nil at 14/5. If you fancy Alex King to follow up last week’s sensational free kick with another goal, you can back him to score anytime at 11/2. Match Officials Referee – Greg Aitken AR1 – Graeme Leslie AR2 – Ian Hart
  21. Craig and Dean discuss the Challenge Cup tie with Raith before moving on to laugh at England.
  22. Craig and Dean discuss the Challenge Cup tie with Raith before moving on to laugh at England.
  23. Raith Rovers v Morton – Match Preview by Dean McKinnon. The race for promotion to the Premiership takes a back seat for the weekend as Morton travel to holders Raith Rovers in Kirkcaldy in the last sixteen of the SPFL Trust Trophy. Morton, and perhaps our victims in the last round Ayr United, are the biggest clubs who have been involved in every campaign without claiming the trophy, only ever reaching the final in 1992, where we fell 2-3 to Hamilton Accies at the old Love Street. Whilst a promotion push will be Dougie Imrie’s priority, he’ll also want to take a step closer to righting that particular wrong. Photo - GBR Photographs. Squad News Imrie has already stated in the club’s in house interview that he’ll be looking to mix things up a bit and give a few of the players a breather as Morton look to extend their uneaten run in all competitions to twelve games. Missing out will be Jai Quitongo and Jack Baird through suspension- both were ordered off against Ayr in the third round victory in September. Darragh O’Connor or Alan Lithgow will likely slot in beside Efe Ambrose in the centre of defence, whilst the likes of Darren Hynes, Alexander King, Jaze Kabia, Carlo Pignatiello and Lewis McGregor will also be hoping to get minutes in order to impress the manager as we head into the vital Christmas period, and look forward to a massive game next week as Morton host fellow highflyers Queen’s Park. Current Connections The only player on either side to have represented the other is Morton captain Grant Gillespie, who made 27 appearances for the Fifers, scoring twice in 2018-19. Rovers’ defender Ross Millen’s dad Andy is of course Imrie’s assistant at Cappielow, and can count Raith amongst his many previous clubs in a nomadic playing career. Photo - GBR Photographs. Tale of the Tape Honours this season are even, with a narrow win apiece in each club’s respective home games- Gillespie’s injury time penalty, justifiably given, but provoking an angry reaction from visitors’ boss Ian Murray proved particularly satisfying. Since the turn of the century, the clubs have met twice in cup competitions and there would be very few complaints from this side of the room if history was to repeat itself. In August 2000, Allan Evans’ Morton travelled to Kirkcaldy for a midweek Challenge Cup first round tie, and came away with a comfortable 4-0 victory thanks to a double from Stephen Whalen and goals from Ross Matheson and Brian Kerr in what was one of the few highlights of a dismal season which saw Morton fall into administration and subsequently into the Second Division. We were again to travel to Stark’s Park in January 2012 for a fourth round Scottish Cup tie and Allan Moore’s side came away with a 2-1 win thanks to a fine Archie Campbell strike and a Peter MacDonald penalty to secure a trip to Fir Park which we won’t talk about. Opposition Analysis Raith haven’t enjoyed the best of seasons thus far- I recall writing before their visit to Cappielow in October how they struggled for consistency, and since then they went on a run of three league wins and a draw in the next four games before losing three league games in a row, a run only punctured by a 3-0 Scottish Cup win over West of Scotland League minnows Auchinleck Talbot. Whilst in an ultra-competitive Championship, they won’t be alone in going on such runs, the 2-5 home schooling from Queen’s Park will have been particularly chastening for Murray and his troops. I spoke to Raith fan Shaughan McGuigan (@ShaughanM), who was quick to bemoan Rovers’ problems at the top end of the park, whilst taking comfort from their record in this particular tournament. “I don’t know about you, but I am absolutely pumped for Saturday’s biggest showdown in football’s premier competition, featuring one of the most in-form and explosive forwards in world football. That’s right, it’s the SPFL Trust Trophy last sixteen tie between Raith Rovers and Morton, and if Rovers are to retain this trinket for the second and a half time in a row, they’ll somehow have to stop Robbie “Red Hot” Muirhead, a striker who with eight goals to his name is well on the way to getting double figures for the first time in his career. For personal, and very petty reasons, my favourite Muirhead memory was the 2018-19 campaign, where he managed a grand total of zero goals in fourteen appearances for Dunfermline Athletic, but anyway, I digress. What Rovers would do for a forward as prolific as Muirhead at the moment. While midfielder, Aidan Connolly has stepped up with seven league goals, the entire forward roster, comprising Kyle Connell, Lewis Vaughan, Jamie Gullan and John Fredriksen have amassed just four between them. It’s something that’ll have to change if Raith are to challenge for the top four, and if it doesn’t happen soon, fans will be desperately hoping that Arbroath and Hamilton remain stuck in a rut and don’t start to close the gap between themselves and seventh placed Rovers. For this weekend though, the frustrations of the league can be put to one side, and with Rovers’ last defeat in the Challenge Cup coming back in September 2019, this is a tournament they always seem to do well in. Yes, that is admittedly a quirk, due to the final against Inverness not going ahead in 2020-21, and the tournament going into a hiatus the following season, but I’ll take my crumbs of comfort wherever I can, thank you very much. While nobody really cares about this competition until the final, where it suddenly turns into the perfect excuse for a day out, both these teams will presumably have to play pretty full strength sides, with neither having huge squads to draw on which would allow them to rotate. Raith had a reasonably full bench for the first time this season against Ayr at the weekend, not that it did them much good right enough, with the 0-2 loss arguably their worst performance of the season, so perhaps the 4-2-3-1 system, which seems to be running out of puff will be changed for this one, if not the personnel. Admittedly they can point to a decent home record, and they came out on top at Stark’s Park the last time Morton visited back in August, but with bigger priorities for both, coming through this match with a clean bill of health feels more important than the result” Photo - GBR Photographs. Betting Guide All odds are supplied by McBookie. All odds correct as of 7am on 9th December 2022 and are subject to change. Please only bet within your means and visit BeGambleAware if you are struggling. Once again, the bookies don’t seem to be too keen on Morton’s chances, in spite of our good run over the last couple of months. Raith are favourites to win the match at 6/5, whilst Morton are 15/8 and the draw is 12/5. Morton to keep their first clean sheet since the mauling of Inverness is 13/5 and the visitors to score in both halves is 10/3. Match Officials Referee- Mike Roncone AR 1- Alastair Mather AR 2- Gordon Crawford
  24. Away Day Guide – Raith Rovers (10th December) Photo - Reddit Tickets Click here to purchase tickets. Tickets are priced at £15 for adults, £10 for U21s/OAPs and £5 for U16s. Disabled Supporters Information Wheelchairs User supporters and their personal assistants can be allocated in the Main Stand. Where this stand is not open for general use, wheelchair users will have the option of using the Penman Family Stand. In these circumstances, where wheelchair guests would prefer not to sit in what would be a ‘home’ stand they will be accommodated in the McDermid Stand. Toilet facilities will be available however food outlets will not. There are 14 car park spaces in the North Car Park reserved for blue badge holders. These are allocated on a first come basis to home and away supporters. The main point of contact is Raith’s Disability Access Officer, Margie Robertson. You can reach her by emailing SLO@raithrovers.net. Supporters Buses There are NO supporters buses running on Saturday. By Train There are two services an hour to Glasgow Central on the low line, departing Gourock :08 and :38 every hour, as well as one train an hour on the high line, departing Wemyss Bay at :57 every hour. From Glasgow Central there are services to Edinburgh, with the option to transfer to Glasgow Queen Street for faster services to the East Coast. At Edinburgh, alight at either Edinburgh Haymarket or Waverly, onto services bound for either Perth or Arbroath. All information taken from the ScotRail website. By Car Use postcode KY1 1SA for the stadium. From Cappielow, the journey should take around 1hr30mins via the M8 and A921. Limited on-street parking is available around the stadium. Pre-Match Upon arrival in Kirkcaldy, The Novar Bar (17 Nicol St, Kirkcaldy KY1 1NY) is a regular pre-match haunt for both home and away supporters. The Novar is around a 12 minute walk (0.6 miles) from the stadium. Photo - Kingdom Taverns
  25. Dean and Gordon welcome guest panellist and Arbroath supporter Ewan Smith onto this week's show. They discuss Saturday's 1-1 draw, the importance of recruitment in January and preview Saturday's trip to Raith.
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