27/09/2014 Sportscene

good afternoon and welcome again to Sportscene, or as I like to call it

today, never mind the Ryder Cup, here is the football. Stephen

Thompson and Tony Higgins are here. Welcome. It is a six-game Saturday

in the Premiership so let me acquaint you with the latest scores

in the top division and beyond. In the Scottish Premiership... Dundee

United are the league leaders. In the lunch time finish, -- kick-off,

it finished St Mirren one, Celtic two.

So those are the latest scores. No time to hear from our reporters

around the grounds. Jim is watching Dundee United at home to St

Johnstone. Second half just kicking off. An unforgettable first half

with the goal giving home fans something to cheer.

The call came at 23 minutes. -- the Tomasz Kuszczak. -- the goal came at

23 minutes. The second half is just under way. United are on course to

remain top of the Premiership. Erskine on the scoreline again? He's

forth of the season. He struggled last year to make an impact that he

has come back this season and what a week it has been for Dundee United.

He is just one of the number of players they have got in the forward

area. They have a plethora of striking options. From the Teeside

derby, Motherwell at home to Hamilton in the Lanarkshire derby. A

couple of minutes into the half. Hamilton opened the scoring in the

33rd minute when Angola, Motherwell defender, missed the clearance.

Crawford added a second just before half-time. Motherwell did not create

a chance in the first half at all. They are suffering a hangover from

their midweek game. Tony, are you surprised by that scoreline? After

the midweek game which was at Douglas Park on the artificial

surface, I thought Motherwell would get it today on the grass. Not

really, because Motherwell only lost one game this season. They have over

achieved in the last few years. Of two Pittodrie. Aberdeen at home to

invest Cali fiscal. A couple of minutes into the second half. -- at

home to Inverness Caledonian Thistle. David Goodwin is continuing

his renaissance up front and looking well with Adam Rooney, who managed

to get the opening goal for Aberdeen to even out Meekings's first ever

goal for Inverness. A bit of a gift for the equaliser, a short head up

back for the equaliser. Aberdeen hit the front a few minutes before the

interval. A wonderful move this time. Pakistan the left-hand side.

-- passes down the left-hand side. The full-back hit the ball into the

top right-hand corner to give Aberdeen a lead they still hold

early in the second half. Aberdeen's form goes loose, Win,

lose, win. This would be their first back-to-back win. Yes, they had an

indifferent start to the league but I think they are picking up steam.

With the change of formation to 4-4-2, it is an incredible friend.

And Rooney, since he has come back in, he was out for quite a while,

has really been on fire. Something like four or five goals in his last

four games. Double figures for the season. He is an excellent striker.

More of him shortly but right now, Victoria Park. Ross County, bottom

club, home to Dundee this afternoon. 47 minutes gone and it is 1-0 to

Ross County and deservedly so because for a team seeking their

first point still, it was a positive start. Five chances in ten first

half minutes. At one point, there was some good work from Kiss and

Queen. The goal on 27 minutes. It was Kiss down the left who set it

up. Dundee were not having much luck. But Mark Brown had a good save

at the edge of the box. Then header was saved. I was reading comments

from the captain midweek, there, and he said it is important that we get

the first goal, something they have not done this season. I think he was

playing right back. An important game for them because they are

anchored at the foot of the table and St Mirren next to them, they

have to hope they lose today. But they are glad they have got ahead

because they have lost so many games. Off to Rugby Park. Kilmarnock

at home to Partick Thistle this afternoon. You have come at a

brilliant time because Kilmarnock has just gone 2-0 in front on the 50

minute mark. It is a header from their captain, Manuel Pasquale. He

has been here six or seven years. The fans love him. He headed home

from a corner. About five minutes into the second half, Kelly went

into half-time with a 1-0 lead through Obadeyi. He stooped at 25

minutes to head in barber's deep cross from the right hand side. But

Partick were unlucky not to go into half-time level. Ryan Stevenson

cracked a delicious shop off the crossbar -- shot off the crossbar

but it failed to go in. Back to Pittodrie Stadium. Another goal in

the match between Aberdeen and Inverness. Inverness counterattack.

A bit of a mistake this time from Logan, who could Aberdeen in front

just before the interval. He attempted to clear it. The all

bounced off a defender and spun into the net. So we are all square here.

A lot of people thought Kilmarnock might struggle this season but if it

stays like that, they will be on 14 points, level with Celtic. Doing

exceptionally well. People were wandering without Kris Boyd... He is

such an influential player for them, or was last year. He scored 48% of

their goals for the season. But sometimes when a player like that

leaves other people have to step up to the plate and responsibilities

get shared throughout the team. They have made some important signings as

well. They have made an incredible start to the season. Into the

championship, Raith Rovers at home to Falkirk. The home side are

wearing green and black, Falkirk wearing white and red. Both teams

pretty much off-colour. That is the story so far. Very little to

recommend the first half. The second half has started a bit brighter.

There was a delicious lowball put across after 47 minutes and there

was a bit of uncertainty between the goalkeeper and defence. Raith Rovers

made an impressive start to the season. At the start of the season

everybody talked about them challenging hips, Hearts and Rangers

for the top spot. Eventually they will get it right but difficult

times at the moment. Those matches still very much effort. Not so St

Mirren against Celtic. If you are with us from the start of the show

you will know how it. Otherwise I will not spoil the shock. Here is

the story of it. Another difficult afternoon for an unconvincing Celtic

but it did end with three points and a double from their striker John

Guidetti. They gave as good as they got, St Mirren, the large spells,

wryly hitting the bar early on as the champions toiled to get going.

Their only win this season so far came at Partick is a week ago

yesterday. Some of the club feel they have played well and not got

what they deserved. Guidetti's first fuelled their believing that as the

champions went in front three minutes from half-time after good

work by Brown, though it may have come off Jim Goodwin last. Saints

began the second period well and drew level on 15. Guidetti's second

owned a lot to a wonderful Stopes ball. They go to Aberdeen on

Tuesday. Celtic will focus on the Europa League. A long-term injury

absentee for St Mirren but he watched the match today. You will be

disappointed with the goals conceded? Yes, really disappointed.

We had injury problems today. I felt as though we competed very well

indeed first half. If not better than Celtic? Yes, people are saying

Celtic did not play badly, they were disjointed. It would probably be a

fair reflection if we went in 0-0. First home league all this season.

So that was good, and then with Celtic got their second, we did not

really threaten again in any real manner. In the end, a disappointing

result and it felt like at stages we could have taken something. A tough

match which week in Aberdeen as well. -- midweek. Yes. It does not

matter who we are playing, I do not think anyone expected us to get

anything from the Celtic game today that they want to go to Aberdeen

with positivity and the belief in a result. We have done it before and

we need to start picking up results and I'm sure the boys will be

looking forward to it. In the report, Leo said another

unconvincing performance from Celtic. They are far from the form

of last season. Yes, they have started this rotation system. Are

you a fan? You have to know your players very well. You have to be

convinced about 16 players can do a job. You need to establish what

their abilities. He left out Kris Commons today because of the

forthcoming game on Thursday. He will not be criticised for that but

I think he will need to find a team of 12 players he wants to play most

weeks and then bring these other players in. Celtic may have been

unconvincing today but Kilmarnock certainly aren't. I believe they

have scored again. Against Partick. Yes, and it is Obadeyi again. And

the assist again to Eremenko. It was his cornerback set up Manuel

Pasquale's second. Drilled home at the near post to make it 3-0

Kilmarnock and a miserable afternoon so far for Partick. Dipping in and

out of the League Cup this afternoon. Plenty to talk about.

Stevenson went out but a couple of your other sides went through. Tony,

two of laws went through as well. Let's start though with the holders,

Aberdeen. They gave Livingston beat the lettering. 4-0 winners, Stephen,

and the first goal coming up here. You would have been happy to get

that one in? Yes. Quite an easy finish but it was very impressive

from Aberdeen in a difficult match. A hat-trick for Rooney. Showing his

manager he is determined to get back in the side. Goals of a high

quality. That one was exceptional. A low drive, this one, into the bottom

corner. He is very good in and around the box but he has shown he

can shoot from range there. The hat-trick coming up. That is more

Rooney -esque. But all three very good finishes from him. And they

came out all guns blazing. It is a trophy they are clearly keen to

defend. A different start to the season in the league but you saw the

performance there, and emphatic victory. So they are looking to

retain the trophy. A couple of seasons ago, it is a trophy that

teams must go into this competition thinking they have a good chance of

winning. Yes. I do not think Celtic have won it in five years. So it is

there for the taking. You are right, Aberdeen will be desperate to

maintain the trophy. They have to be one of the favourites to do that.

Rangers will also consider chances. A good performance the way to

Falkirk midweek. 3-1 winners in this one although for Kirk took the lead.

Yes. -- Falkirk. But eventually they managed to get their act together.

Unfortunately but that equal the game. And Dene Shields on target? It

was a nice finish in the end. From a player who probably... This is the

moment of controversy. I think it is a penalty. His arm is out in an area

where as a defender in the box you always told to keep your arms by

your side but certainly no doubt about this finish from Ian Black.

Great technique. Probably needs to work on his celebrations, though.

Adding to Pittodrie. There's something happening? Aberdeen take

the lead, but the defence is certainly not at the top. Caley

Thistle, rolling a pass into the path of David Goodwillie, with the

shot parried. But the rebound rolled into the unguarded goal. At the

moment, it is Aberdeen three, Caley Thistle two. It was 4-3 when these

teams met just before Christmas. We might beat that record, the way the

defence is playing today. Let's find out what is happening at Tannadice.

Still 1-0 to United. Remember that Chris Erskine goal, where 60 that it

through. United started the more brightly. A minute after that, a

snap lob went over the bar, but Saints should really have been

levelled at minute ago. Helen Morris failed to control the ball. All

Halloran got the ball away, predicted the post. 62 minutes

gone. Richard Wilson is next, watching the Lanarkshire derby. Any

advance on the 2-0? Not yet, but Stuart Carswell has just been

penalised for bringing down a player inside the penalty area. There are

about to take a penalty. If you stay with me, the ball is on the spot. He

stepped up to date the kick. And that is 3-0 to Hamilton. A

commentating debut for Richard Wilson, I did not think he did too

badly. Let's look at Ross County. No change here. Still 1-0. The couple

of decent chances. Eight 20 yarder saved. And a good attacking move by

Joe Cardinal. A couple of nurses. On the other hand, Paul McGowan had an

effort saved, but it remains 1-0. Kenny Crawford again, he is a Rugby

Park. Is it still 3-0? Yes. Almost four before you came to me. A free

kick whizzed past the post. And how the Kilmarnock fans would have loved

for him to have scored. Manual plus Galley scored the second. But

Kilmarnock are in complete control. Partick, since they hit the crossbar

in the first half, have not had anything to offer. Higginbotham is a

worry because he has had to go off. I saw him walking up the stands on

crutches. He seems to be walking OK Buck crunches are not a good sign.

It is still 3-0. I would dearly love Paul Mitchell to have the goal to

talk about. Is it for Raith Rovers or Falkirk? I would love to have a

chance to talk about. It has been that kind of game. Very little to

choose between the two sides. You can tick the boxes for effort and

endeavour but there has been very little creativity. And that is the

problem for both sides. They got into decent positions and more often

than not, they have taken the wrong option. The best entertainment is

twice that the goalie outfoxed his opposite onrushing forward. And

there, the first real action of the match. Forcing a save from Jimmy

MacDonald. Let's hope the action now picks up. No goals but plenty more

League Cup action to enjoy, at least in your case, Tony, for this

section. You can both be gloriously objective about this first offering,

St Johnstone away to Kilmarnock. Stephen Graham made the impact. St

Johnstone really needed a striker. If Brian Graham can step up to the

mark, that is a tremendous finish. He shows a great bit of technique,

to swivel and put the ball in the top net. He is a player who we now

can score goals. And St Johnstone, without Steven MacLean and Stephen

Mayne, they really need a goal-scorer. A good win for St

Johnstone, Scottish Cup winners, they will be chanting -- Lanzinger

chances to go all the way. Yes, Andy did well in the League Cup. They

will be hoping to continue that into the season. And Kilmarnock, are they

out of it? It seems to be a bit of a curse. You're after we won it, we

went out in the first round. -- the year after we won. The less said

about that the better. And think we have more League Cup action. Partick

Thistle against St Mirren. Scoring in next time. A hard one to take. It

was a poor game in terms of quality. It became anyone's game once it went

to penalties. Disappointing to lose that goal in extra time. And the

guys put so much effort into that game. It was almost a fatigued

finish. He looked down on his feet. Tony, you will be chuffed with that?

I saw that Archibald, the manager, was recollecting that in 1981 there

was a famous Partick Thistle when, maybe they can replicate that.

Disappointment for St Mirren. And coming on the back of a good win for

St Mirren. You think that Thistle may have had some revenge on their

mind? By all accounts, the game was poor. It was excellent for us on the

Friday to get our account up and running. And think it is important

to really focus on the league, because of where we are. -- and I

think. Maybe we do not need to focus on the League Cup any more, and we

can focus on points. That is what we need. A word for Cairncross third,

saying that Higginbotham was on crutches. He is a big player for

them. Yes, he is a star player. He is creative and good on the ball.

And he can score goals. That will be bad news for them. Tony, you have

not had much to celebrate with Hibernian, but they have had a 2-0

win away to Ross County. Somewhat unexpected. But Craig fired in an

amazing cross. And what a header, reminiscent of the games are used to

play(!) It was a great cross and a great goal. Ross County ensured that

gym and would-be upset because this is Stevenson, riding the tackle.

Again, a pinpoint cross. Almost a Carbon copy of the first goal. But

great for Hibernian and hopefully that will lift their spirits to move

on to greater success. Ross County, defensively weak. A couple of

unchallenged headers. Obviously, they have been poor defensively. And

I think that that will be something they are looking to put right, the

new managers. Were you surprised by hopefully Ross County have started

the season? I was. I think they had a big turnaround of players in the

summer. A lot of foreign players coming in, players who may be did

not know the league. And they had a very poor start. But you know,... It

was a Scottish player that scored today, Gardyne. The win would be so

important. Obviously, when you are down there, on zero points, getting

a point on the board is vital. And it looks like they are going to do

that today. You are saying that through gritted teeth! You would

prefer a Dundee when? Time to bounce around the grounds, and Jim Spence,

any change at Tannadice? Heading towards the 30th minute and that

cannot help but reflect what -- on what the guys were saying. They

really are struggling to replace Stevie May. Steven MacLean also

injured. And Brian May cannot play because he is United player. Really,

they are struggling. They have brought on and working, on loan.

They have had one shot on goal. And as they speak, United are coming

forward. Armstrong, high and wide, into the stands. 70 minutes gone,

and if it stays like this, United retain the top spot in the Jimmy

ship. -- Premiership. Heading the Fir Park, Motherwell and Hamilton.

Yes, still 3-0 to Hamilton. It was almost four moments after and want

to be a scored that penalty kick. -- Antoine-Curier. Another shot was

pulled just wide. Motherwell have been brighter this half, bringing on

John Sutton who has made a difference. They saved one shot

earlier in the game. But it was the 59th minute before Motherwell had

their first effort on target, a header saved by Michael McGovern.

Lee Irwin subsequently said one into the side netting. Really, Hamilton

have lost this game. Motherwell have had no answers. Hamilton, riding

high in Lanarkshire. North to the highest scoring Premiership matches

so far. Five goals. Aberdeen Inverness. Is there a sixth? Caley

Thistle are pressing to find the equaliser. Graham shinny complaining

to the referee, taken out by Barry Robson on the edge of the penalty

box. Robson had previously been booked. So much experience in the

place of Ryan Jack. He has had a fine game, the veteran midfielder. A

lot of pressure put on the Aberdeen goal. They are holding fast, to the

best of five. Wonder what is happening and Ross County? There's

been an equaliser at Dundee. A great run by Martin Boyle, passing into

vivid Clarkson, who slotted it away. It is one all. -- David Clarkson.

Before that, county squandered a good chance. They might have

controlled the delivery better, but they did not. So it is 1-1. And

another goal at Tannadice. First, Robbie Bach. -- Rugby Park. The

Kilmarnock manager is suited and booted on the touchline, quite

satisfied because Obadeyi has scored twice. And he will be glad because

he looks like he is finding his shooting boots. So many Kilmarnock

players are on one goal this season, and looks like he is taking this by

the scruff of its neck. 3-0. And another goal at Tannadice. Jim

Spence. 2-0. A lovely bit of work by Ciftci, giving it the plate into

Staverton. It puts United ahead. -- Payton. Goals reining in around the

country but not at Starks park. Still goalless? Just moments before

you joined me, a moment that encapsulated the whole game. In role

in touch by McKie on the left-hand side, driving into the box, picking

out the wrong pass. That has been the shape of it. There was a header,

absolutely unmanned. The goalkeeper was beaten but unfortunately, so was

the post. It is getting better. 18 minutes to play.

If you have just tuned in, we're normally on at 4:30pm, but don't

worry, Steven Thomson and Tony Higgins have saved their best lines

for the second half of the show. If they have not, we are in big

trouble. Either way, we will resume with a look at the latest scores.

Time to go back to the grounds, starting with Jim Spence. Let's get

the details. 75 minutes gone, 2-0 to Dundee United. Erskine got the ball

rolling. He scored a fine goal from 12 yards. That put United ahead.

Very little has happened in the first half but the second half has

been more lively. The best chance of the game came with Michael Allen at

59 minutes. Alan Morris in control. The striker fired away but hit the

post. United added a second. Ciftci found Payton, eight yards out. And

he slotted in. 75 minutes gone, 2-0. The ball page and has been a shining

store for United. Yes, an unsung hero. -- Paul Paton. He has been an

excellent player for them. He really gives balance to the team. How much

balance at Fir Park? Hamilton the leaders there, 3-0. Hamilton have

been completely on top. It was 59 minutes before Motherwell even

managed a shot on target. The first goal came after 31 minutes -- 34

minutes. Hamilton added a second just on the cusp of half-time. This

time it was a Paul Lawson mistake in midfield gifting the ball to crow --

Crawford. Motherwell were a bit better after the interval but could

not sustain it. The Hamilton substitute Longridge was brought

down inside the penalty area. Motherwell just cannot get into this

game in any attacking sense and Hamilton are firmly on form. The

week started well for Motherwell with a point against Celtic. It has

gone downhill. Yes, a success story with the goals but they are

physically have defensive frailties this season. I thought they may have

turned a corner last week with their good form against Celtic but they

are struggling today. Of two Pittodrie and Scott is watching

Aberdeen-Inverness. Aberdeen 3-2 up last on the heard from you. Still

the same. There have been defensive frailties at both tens of the pitch

here this afternoon. At 60 minutes Josh Meekings powerfully headed home

his first goal for the club. Aberdeen then took advantage of a

poor pass back by Gary Warren and Adam Rooney got it in for his fifth

goal of the week. His 11th of the season. Just before half-time, David

Goodwillie, who is back to the sort of form that earned him that big

money move, helped set up the goal. Logan got it in. Logan then turned

from hero to villain as his miscued pass was picked up and driven into

the back of the net by Marley Watkins. Then more poor defending at

the other end, this time by Draper. It was Goodwillie taking advantage.

His shot was parried and there was Jonny Hayes to bundle it in. Five

goals so far. But with the defensive frailties we have seen at times,

there may be more goals before the end. Speaking earlier about

Aberdeen's firepower with Goodwillie and Rooney, but guys like Hayes, a

squad of dangerous players. They have. A lot of attacking options.

Obviously I was disappointed to see Jack go off with an injury because

he was elected a big player for them. But I think it is not too

extensive and injury. So child on and is watching Ross County -Dundee.

Charles, live up to your billing. Ross County got off to a good start

and created the best chances. Paul McGinn cut a good one out. You could

see Ross County's opener coming. It was predictable. Kiss took the ball

up the left and picked out Michael Gardyne and he slipped it in from

the far post. No luck for Dundee. Second-half has continued broadly on

similar lines and Kiss had two efforts which he missed out on. One

must save and one was a header but went over the bar. There was another

blank for county and then the equaliser came, Martin Boyle went up

their right and it was Clarkson who found the net from close range.

Dundee have come more into it since they scored that goal. The football

pools would be having Dundee in doubt for draw every week. -- down

for draw every week. Four draws this season so far. Yes, it is important

for them to get a point today. But they have done well. They are safe

in the league at the present. Just the one defeat. That is right. Ross

County of course need three points. Party losing plenty of goals this

afternoon away to Kilmarnock. They were leading by 3-0 the last time we

spoke to Kenny. Still 3-0? Yes. It looks as though Kilmarnock have

definitely got the sponsoring up. About seven or eight minutes to

play. It was Obadeyi who got them in in the first half -- the first one

in in the first half. He headed in Barber's cross. So far in his career

he has been a bit of a journeyman but so far he's finding his feet at

Kilmarnock and they will be hoping he hits the back of the net

regularly. Someone who has hit it regularly for Kilmarnock over six

years has been Manuel Pascali. He scored the second from a corner and

it was a bullet header and the fans were delighted. He put it past Scott

Fox. Obadeyi got his second of the match soon after. He drilled in at

the near post to make it three. Artic diesel have offered little in

the second half. -- Partick Thistle. But it seems they have given up the

ghost. It looks like Kilmarnock will get home easily here. Pascali on the

scoresheet. A fan favourite. He is a very good player, likes to let you

know you are in a game. Are you familiar with the works of Obadeyi?

Not so much that I watched him play on the left hand side. He looked

dangerous, can run with the ball. I can Kilmarnock have been chuckling

to find somebody who will step up and -- I think Kilmarnock have been

struggling to find somebody like that. Goals in all the Premiership

matches this afternoon. Not so in the championship. Our reporter is at

a dull race Rovers-full-colour encounter. Yes, it has started to

improve. -- Raith Rovers versus Falkirk encounter. There were a few

efforts for Falkirk. McDonald called into action in the last ten minutes.

Recently he has done well to save from McEwan and Thompson.

Interesting to note they are both full-backs for Raith Rovers who are

desperately trying to get forward. Raith Rovers had a penalty claim a

couple of moments ago. One player was brought down but it was actually

offside and it did not look like a penalty anyway. We are moving on to

act three of our League Cup round-up and there is a derby double-header

starting from Dundee. A 1-0 win from United. Yes. I wonder whether this

was a sending off. What it denying him a goal-scoring opportunity? Yes,

but I do not think it is a foul. I think on the way down the Dundee

player comes with him. I would not have said it was a penalty. Dundee

will be disappointed to lose a goal in the last minute. Jaroslaw Fojut

with the goal there. And uncompromising centre-half. So a

narrow win there. Even tighter in the Lanarkshire derby, 0-0 in this

one and it went to penalties. Simon Ramsay with the miss there. A great

save, though. Yes, a close game. The great save with his right hand. And

Hamilton winning 6-5 on penalties. Not 14-30. No. A great finish.

Hamilton cannot do anything wrong at the moment. They have this

tremendous team spirit. I know you have been impressed with Hamilton,

Stephen, but surprised that... ? Yes, and that is not being

disrespectful. They have come out of the First Division, lost their first

game and people have been quick to criticise but since then they have

been phenomenal. They work so hard for each other but within that they

have real quality to win matches. They are contenders for the top six

finish this year. I thought you were going to say contenders for the

title! Settle down! The BBC live match. Stephen, you were there, and

a convincing win for Celtic over Hearts who, it had to be said, shot

themselves in the foot. Two bit chances, one from Walker and the

other from Wilson. He should not be heading that back into the box. A

good finish from Guidetti who should have been a hat-trick in the match.

It is a soft penalty but there was no reason for Van Dyke to leave his

leg hanging. He should have kept is chopped down. What a pained

expression! This is stupid. I think it is Guidetti. He's not going

anywhere. All you need to do as a defender is a show him out. On the

night, Celtic did deserve to win the game on the balance of chances, and

in the last 30 minutes they really did it in style. You can see what

he's trying to do, chested past the post. Celtic have not won the trophy

for a good few years. I think fans are keen on them winning it this

year. Yes. They have talked about winning the treble. In the last

couple of years, critical Celtic fans were saying that Neil Lennon

never achieved a treble. Celtic fans still criticise him for it. So I

think that for Ronnie Deila to say his aspiration is the treble at this

stage of the season, it is really important that Celtic fans remember

that message. It would be good for Ronnie Deila, wouldn't it? It would.

I personally think he should not have said that the league was a

foregone conclusion will stop you did not hear Neil Lennon saying that

when there were 20.8. But they will win it. A reminder of the League Cup

results from midweek. Aberdeen convincing winners at home to

Livingston. We can have a look at the fourth

round draw. Quarterfinals. What is your pick of the ties there,

Tony? Probably Rangers -Saint Johnstone but this is one of the few

occasions I can remember that they were all Premier League clubs.

Normally there are teams from the lower division that managed to get

through. So they are all good ties. Rangers-Saint Johnstone will be

good. Rangers are favourites but St Johnstone are a Premier League team.

Do you fancy Hibs at home to Dundee United? No. Especially with it being

a quarterfinal. But if the Hibs support come out in this and get

behind their team, it will boy them up. They might just do it. Tony's

bristling, I can see. I think he will agree with you. I must admit,

United are overwhelming favourites but the result against Dingwall has

given them some inspiration. And Celtic this? -- Celtic - Partick

Thistle? I can only see Celtic win that. It would have brought in a bit

of money to the club so disappointed for that but Celtic will win that

match. And Aberdeen looking good? Yes, they are the favourites for the

containment trophy. Do you fancy them? I still think Aberdeen.

Celtic, to win the treble is very difficult and I would not be

surprised if Celtic got the double. But there is usually under the team

and in the last few years there has always been another team that can

hopefully win at probably Aberdeen have a prospect. It was the last

trophy they won, wasn't it? Yes, in 2007, I think. A couple of matches

in the championship could end up over the next couple of days. One is

tomorrow. circumstances. -- starting with

hearts against Livingston, hearts have adjusted well. Absolutely. The

younger players that did so well have really matured. They have some

fantastic signings. They will push Rangers the hallway this year for

that Championship. Losing the other night at Parkhead, they should not

be too despondent. I would forget about that and concentrate on the

league. I'd expect that they will win. The crowds that have been

turning out, 15,000 in the Championship coming to games, with

that crowd behind you, it is such a bonus. I think that they will win

tomorrow convincingly. Heading over to Fir Park. Motherwell Hamilton.

Another goal for Ali Crawford. It is now 4-0. The ball was fed into him

from a tight angle. 4-0. Back to the Championship chat. You would fancy

hearts at home to Livingston? Yes. In the League Cup tie that

Livingston took, I think it was 4-1. But hearts have played so well. Ten

changes. I think they will play their strongest side. I would say

that they will win this one. Staying with you, to talk about her

Hibernian, who had a great showing at Ibrox. Rangers won Mark of a

supposed they have improved steadily since then, whereas Hibernian have

not gained momentum. They have had a difficult time. They play better

football. It was a controversial ordering off of Handling. I think

Hibernian will have to play better. They, if they can continue the form

they have been showing, it could be a good game. This guy, my languor,

might be the attacking threat. -- Malanga. You fancy them, Stephen?

Yes. Rangers cannot afford to drop too many points. But think they have

the quality to win that game. Full-times is beginning to trickle

in, the first from Rugby Park. Kenny? One-way traffic is an

understatement. 3-0, the full-time results. Kilmarnock stay fifth in

the league. That is their fourth win out of eight games this season and

they do not think that there has been a bigger win this season and

Alan Johnson. It might be his biggest ever. We will need to check

that one. All the way, it looked like Kilmarnock were going to take

the points. Partick Thistle, out with a whimper. Although they did

have a couple of injuries. It was Obadeyi who got the scoring

underway. 25 minutes, he headed in the deep cross at the back post.

That was his second of the season. That was the way it stayed although

Stevenson cracked the bar from 25 yards with a brilliant strike.

Unlucky not to find the net. The lead was doubled by Kilmarnock

shortly after. 51 minutes and Manuel Pascali, an Italian who has been at

Ayrshire for six years, he headed home the corner. And soon after,

Obadeyi added a third. In four to much space, he turned and drilled

into the near post. So Kilmarnock went 3-0, and Partick are on the

losing side and will be disappointed with that. They are down in ninth.

Now to Charles Bannerman with news of a dramatic late winner. But is it

for Ross County or Dundee? It is for Ross County. I think? Minutes of

stoppage time have now elapsed but it looks like a winner from Darren

Matson. He picked up a ball from the left, and fired it in to the delight

of the fans. -- Maatsen. But think this game must be just about

finished. At the moment, it is 2-1 to Ross County. And approaching the

very end. Still playing, but it is all over at Fir Park. Richard, how

did it finish? It took seven death penalties to celebrate the sides at

mid week in the league up, but this was a more one-sided encounter.

Hamilton were in control from the outset. A reflection of their

dominance. Motherwell conceded in the 33rd minute when possession was

surrendered inside the area. Ali Crawford, also excellent in midfield

for Hamilton throughout, scored the second before half-time, robbing

Paul Lawson of the ball. Motherwell's contribution to their

downfall continued after the break when Stuart Carswell brought down a

player in the area. Antoine-Curier scored the resulting spot kick. He

added the fourth, shooting from a tight angle in extra time. It was 56

minutes before Motherwell managed a shot on target, comfortably saved.

The home side were never in this game. The Derby lacked intensity or

competitiveness. Hamilton worked so firmly in control. A solar one for

Motherwell to take. Charles Bannerman has had time to collect

his thoughts. A dramatic ninety second minute winner from Darren

Maatsen has got his first points for Ross County. Before that, they had

morphed into a gorilla. It was a great start from county, with a lot

of chances. Rocco Quinn was set up for a chance, the best of the early

chances. It was highly predictable overall. Kiss phoned Michael Gardyne

to slip it in. They did not test Mark Brown at the other end. Another

header went over the bar. Then the equaliser, when Martin Boyle charged

up the right, picking up David Clarkson who found the net from

close range. It was against the run of play but it sparked life into

Dundee, and they managed to force a great save out of Brown. Then the

ninety second equaliser, with Maatsen. Another win for United. A

former Partick Thistle jewel did the damage. A goal in each half. Erskine

fired a -- fired them ahead. Despatching from 12 yards. 72

minutes in, Paul Payton fired at home from eight yards after a fine

interchange between Watson and Ciftci. In between the goals, Saints

almost levelled. Alan Morris failed to level. Saints are badly missing

Stephen Mayne, who left for Sheffield Wednesday. With Brian

Graham unavailable, they were short in the striking department. That

will not bother United, who remain top of the Premiership.

Our final full-time report comes from Scott Davie. As far as the

Premiership goals, Aberdeen against Caley Thistle, a narrow win? Yes, by

three goals. -- by 3-2. Aberdeen seem to have solved their problems

of last season, being unable to kill off opposition in home games. They

have scored ten goals now in the space of a week, largely down to the

productive partnership between David Goodwillie and Adam Rooney. Although

it has to be said that there was a lot of defensive mistakes for the

majority of the goals of this afternoon. Uncharacteristic for both

sides but nonetheless, that is what happened. Josh Meekings headed his

side in front with his first ever for Caley Thistle, not picked up by

Greg Candy. A simple header, a simple goal. A good finish from Adam

Rooney at 23 minutes, his 11th of the season and fifth in just eight

days. April header from Gary Warren. Rooney rounded the keeper

before rolling it into the back of the net. A sublime goal of putting

Aberdeen in front before the interval. Goodwillie intelligently

held up later shot, spotting Shea Logan on the right and rolling it

into him. The full-back did the rest and 40 minutes. But it was Shea

Logan who turned provider at the other end of the park, missing a

clearance and putting the ball into the path of Watkins, who lifted it

over Jimmy Lange field and equalised. But the mistakes were not

finished a. At the other end of the park, Ross Draper with another

uncharacteristic blunder at missed control. Johnny Hayes, a former

Caley Thistle player, increasing the punishment for his old team, rolling

it into the back of the net. Aberdeen with their first

back-to-back league wins of the season. I think we are spoiling the

viewers with all these goggles. Let's bring you crashing down to

earth with Paul Mitchell, telling us about the goalless match between

Raith Rovers and Falkirk. Six points separated the sides at the start of

the day and that is how it stays after neither side managed to pull

away from the other. Little to commend in the first half. As the

Magic bounced, it improved in terms of chances created. Tudor Jones was

the architect of a number of the chances, only to be denied by the

goalkeeper. Jason Thomson... Rory Ellis had a header from a corner on

72 minutes but going to did past the post. It was a day where the final

ball needed to be better. But it was not. My eyes nearly popped out of my

head when we were looking at the statistics board for Motherwell and

Hamilton. In terms of possession, 51%. In terms of shots, Hamilton had

23 shots on target. Yes, it is a real concern for Motherwell. Last

year, they had one of the worst goals against records in the league.

And they lost Scott Hutcheson, one of the best defenders in the Premier

League. They are defensively struggling and they are not scoring

the goals that they need to. There are problems at Motherwell. But

Stuart McCall is the right man to try and guide them out of this. No

such problems at Hamilton, sitting second top just behind Dundee

United. Your old pal is doing great things there. Yes. Hamilton lost

their first game, and they have drawn every game since then.

Incredible spirit within the camp. Great talent. Young players and all

the players. What a result today. 23 shots on target. And United, I

noticed, Paul Payton said earlier that this season they are learning

to women ugly. You remember that spell, an incredible run last

season. -- win ugly. They had the players, Bryan Gould except. But

this year, they seem to be more pragmatic, and they have lost one or

two of their top players. The reality is that they are playing

better football in the sense that it is more effective. I think that is

probably why they are top of the league. They are managing to grind

teams down. And he mention Erskine and Paul Payton that they have

brought in. He is showing loyalty to his players, and bringing them with

him. Erskine, he dominates the left-hand side when he is on song.

He is a strong runner with good skill. And with Robertson away, that

will give him some place in the backspace. He will be a great asset.

What is scary is that Mackay, Stevenson and Armstrong on the

bench, two of them are the best players. The options for the squad

that Jackie McNamara has assembled, it is awesome. And let's have a look

at the classified round-up. Another goal for Ali Crawford. It is

now 4-0. Normally at this time I would bring

you the classified tables understandings. Unfortunately there

were one or two gremlins in the system so we cannot do that. But by

way of compensation I will bring you a round-up of the matches down South

this afternoon. The Merseyside derby, Liverpool at home to

Everton. Here is the story. It was a derby that was barely typical in

many ways, full of blood and thunder, dour in parts but with a

dramatic twist to finish. Liverpool better in the first half but could

not score while Everton rarely threatened. But a Steven Gerrard

kick in the 65th minute but the Everton wall and dipped in time to

beat Tim Howard for pace. Something special for the Captain's 10th

Merseyside derby goal. But Gerard was trumped in injury time by

Everton's man with the armband. A corner was not cleared, a cross was

only partially dealt with and it came straight to fill Jackie O who

thumped the ball in from 25 yards. -- came straight to Jedvaj Elka.

Leaders Chelsea were home to Aston Villa. Chelsea 3-0 winners here in

the end. Oscar early on. It was won at half-time. Villa did not

threaten. Eight Premier League goals for Diego. William wrapped it all up

with 11 or 12 minutes left. Roy Keane has a really long grey beard

now. He was clean-shaven last time Villa had shot on target, I think.

Rampant. Redhead to Hull where City were at home to Manchester City. --

let's head to hole. Sergio Aguero got a 2-0 lead within

a few minutes. Frank Lampard scored yet again to

tap in his fourth goal in a week. Things looking up for Manchester

city. Getting better for United as well. They are at home to West Ham

this afternoon. Manchester United two, West Ham one. Far from

convincing but United held out for 32 minutes. Wayne Rooney got a read

for a tackle on Downing. United were put ahead early on. Van Percy got

the second on 22 minutes. Valencia had a header which dropped the bar.

It was all West Ham in the final half hour. Kevin Nolan turned the

ball past with a header but the flag was up. Extremely tight looking at

the replay. West Ham denied a point. United looked brilliant going

forward. Fragile, shaky and know that in the back, but they have the

three points. Stephen Thompson. He said about Roy Keane's beard. Did

you hear that? Good win for Manchester United as well. Much

needed. They would have been in trouble. Might set them on the road

to better things. Yes, I think it is the transition. The amount of

players that have come in and they have defensive problems. They have

problems in their squad but you want to start seeing results. Man City,

that was their first win in three. They have drawn the last two

matches. But no problems for Chelsea. They seem to be coasting

their way to the title. That was an unintentional pun when I said

coasting. Koster. And they are a machine, Chelsea. Mourinho is a bit

understated this year. He calls Pellegrini a crony to upset him but

apart from that he has been quiet. I think they will be very difficult to

surpass this year. Let's go back to all things Scottish and the

Premiership. Apologise again that we did not have the leak tables.

Despite the defeat for Inverness Caley Thistle they are in third

place in the table. Ross County won today their first win of the season.

They have drawn level on points with St Mirren. Look at the bottom four.

This that how it's going to pan out? I do not know. Ross County has

had. Full stop but whilst we can still be within touching distance.

We are only four points behind... Behind Dundee as well. Yes, whilst

we can still see there teams above us that can be caught quite easily,

that gives us hope. Hopefully that can be us. We have a couple of

tricky games, Aberdeen away on Tuesday night and St Johnstone to

wait next Saturday but we will be looking to take some points. Ahead

of two home games against Inverness. Is it too early to

predict, because all teams have not yet played each other? Are quite

looking around at this time. You can start to see a pattern but it does

not mean anything. To see a pattern but it does not mean anything. Went

on a run. Yourselves started slowly as well last year. Yes, bad start is

a good finish. Do you think the league title is a foregone

conclusion? I think Celtic will win it but paradoxically, the more

points they drop and the better the teams do, it makes it a competition.

We want a competition for as long as is possible. Aberdeen, this is the

first time they have had back-to-back wins this season.

United look strong. So hopefully these two side can test Celtic and

do their best to try to win the championship. I think we can go to

Aberdeen with a bit of positivity and hopefully get a result. Thank

you very much. That is about it for today. You can see the best in the

highlights show tomorrow. Plenty of goals for you to see

there. We are back next week. That is it for today. Thank to our

guests, Stephen Thompson and Tony Higgins, and to you for watching.

Please enjoy the rest of the weekend and take care.