Falkirk Shows Resilience After Summer Overhaul, Poses Challenge to Celtic
Despite a significant player exodus, Falkirk has found its form, securing three consecutive wins and demonstrating a newfound grit that could trouble league leaders Celtic.
Falkirk is proving to be a formidable opponent this season, defying early expectations after a major squad rebuild over the summer. The club experienced a mass departure of 17 players, including key figures who helped them achieve a top-six finish last season. Notable departures included Barney Stewart and Calvin Miller, who moved to West Bromwich Albion and Hearts respectively, with both transfers generating profit for the club. Dylan Tait transferred to Premiership rivals Dundee United, and Ben Broggio returned to Aston Villa following a successful loan spell.
The defensive partnership of Filip Lissah and Kyrell Wilson also returned to their parent club, Swansea, with Lissah becoming a regular starter and Wilson playing in the Belgian top flight. The task of replacing these players was widely considered a significant challenge, leading many to believe that survival would be the team's primary objective.
However, as November begins, these fears appear unfounded. Manager John McGlynn's revamped squad is demonstrating a strong resurgence, marked by three consecutive Premiership victories. This achievement is particularly notable as the team failed to secure three wins in a row even during their successful previous season. A significant shift in their playing style has also been observed. While Falkirk was known for its entertaining, free-flowing football last season, the team has adopted a more resilient, hard-fought approach in recent matches.
Striker Jacob Murrell has been a key figure in this turnaround, scoring four goals in his last five league appearances. His performance against Hibernian, alongside the team's overall gritty display, secured three points. The subsequent 3-0 victory against Kilmarnock, despite challenging weather conditions, highlighted the team's ability to grind out results. Their midweek win at Pittodrie, though not aesthetically pleasing, showcased a determination to endure and secure points.
This ability to win, even when not playing at their peak, bodes well for Falkirk's future prospects. The team has also improved its ability to hold onto leads, having previously lost points in the final moments against Dundee United, St Johnstone, and Dundee. The current defensive solidity, from back to front, suggests a team that is gelling effectively. While McGlynn aims to return to a more attractive style of play, the current capacity to win “the ugly way” is a significant short-term gain.
McGlynn deserves considerable credit for rebuilding the squad without complaint and outperforming teams with larger budgets. His scouting acumen remains sharp, with the Derby County loanee Owen Eames quickly settling into the team and improving weekly. Murrell, a 19-year-old American, has also made a significant impact, overcoming a slow start to score five goals in his last seven appearances. This form positions him well to challenge Celtic's defense, which has been perceived as vulnerable this season. Falkirk has a challenging history against Celtic, having lost their last ten encounters. However, their current form suggests this upcoming match presents a genuine opportunity to break that losing streak.