Stuniverse Posted November 24, 2019 Author Share Posted November 24, 2019 (edited) Game date: Saturday 21st December 2019 Pre-match v Forfar Athletic (a) - Ladbrokes League 1 (18) Match Preview BairnsNews: Forfar are 8th in the league, three points above the relegation zone. You beat them 2-0 at Falkirk Stadium earlier in the season, can you get a similar result at Station Park today? Stuniverse: I'd like to think so. We've won our last five league games so we're confident, but we're also aware runs like that don't continue indefinitely. That said, we've prepared thoroughly, the players have trained hard, and we'll be looking to give the Bairns fans a nice early Christmas present in our last game before Christmas. Team Selection Unavailable: Michael Doyle (suspended) Cammy Bell (dislocated shoulder) Doubtful: Denny Johnstone (knee-45) Conor Sammon (groin-75) Robbie Mutch (knee-90) BairnsNews: Just one change today but it's something of a surprise. Why have you decided to give Dryden his debut today for Doyle who's suspended? Stuniverse: Well, as you quite rightly say, Michael Doyle is suspended after accumulating too many yellow cards, so somebody had to come in and play right-back. With Lewis Toshney set to join Airdrie in the new year, and Gary Miller set to join Ayr, it made sense to take a look at Sam Dryden in a competitive Ladbrokes League 1 game. BairnsNews: But isn't Dryden on the transfer list? Stuniverse: Yes, he is. And there is some interest in Sam [Queen of the South] but so far there's been no firm offers. Things can change quickly in football and we need somebody other than Efe Ambrose to provide right-back cover for the rest of the season. I placed Sam on the transfer list, with a few other fringe players, because we need to reduce the wage bill, but I can just as easily take him off again. Sam doesn't want to leave and he has the opportunity to change my mind today with an impressive performance. Post-match: Forfar Athletic (0) 0-2 (1) Falkirk BairnsNews: A good win that makes it 14 unbeaten now. Stuniverse: Yes. I thought we put in a good, all round performance. At times it was like pinball in their penalty area but Michael Tidser calmed our nerves with a long-range drive just before half-time. David McMillan headed our second goal after the break. It was good to see Conor Sammon (groin) back on the pitch and I thought Sam Dryden had a solid game which has given me food-for-thought. BairnsNews: I know you've been waiting for an update. Raith beat Clyde 3-0. Stuniverse: Thank you. So, at the halfway stage of the season, we're as we were with Raith four points back. I'd like to take this opportunity to welcome all Ye Bairns fans a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Please LIKE if you enjoyed this update and FOLLOW the thread so you don't miss future updates. Edited November 24, 2019 by Stuniverse 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 24, 2019 Author Share Posted November 24, 2019 Game date: Saturday 28th December 2019 Pre-match v Dumbarton (H) - Ladbrokes League 1 (19) Match Preview BairnsNews: Dumbarton are 9th in the league and you've already beaten them twice this season. Today should be three-out-of-three, shouldn't it? Stuniverse: On paper... probably, yes, but as we all know football is played on grass, not paper. Team Selection Unavailable: Mak Durnan (suspended) Doubtful: Denny Johnstone (knee-45) Conor Sammon (groin-75) Cammy Bell (shoulder-90) Robbie Mutch (knee-90) BairnsNews: Two changes today. Stuniverse: Yes. Michael Doyle has served his suspension and returns in place of Sam Dryden. This time it's Mark Durnan's turn to be suspended and our captain Gregor Buchanan gets another start. Post-match: Falkirk (1) 4-0 (0) Dumbarton BairnsNews: A convincing win. Congratulations. Stuniverse: Thank you. Louis Longridge gave us a 15 minute lead, but I thought Dumbarton put up a good fight in the first-half and they caused us some problems for sure. When Michael Tidser added a second after the break, we took control and added two more goals through Michael Doyle and Jahmal Hector-Ingram. Stuniverse: Raith were playing 3rd placed East Fife today. Do you have some good news for me? BairnsNews: Sorry, no. Raith won 1-0. Please LIKE if you enjoyed this update and FOLLOW the thread so you don't miss future updates. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 24, 2019 Author Share Posted November 24, 2019 Game date: 28 December 2019 MUTCH SET FOR PAY-RISE BairnsNews understand from unnamed club sources that 21 year-old goalkeeper Robbie Mutch is one appearance away from 20 appearances which would automatically trigger a contract clause increasing his wage from £400 to £600 per week. With 33 year-old Cammy Bell back in training following a dislocated shoulder, and The Bairns already over their wage budget, it will be interesting to see which goalkeeper manager Stuniverse selects for the next match. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 24, 2019 Author Share Posted November 24, 2019 Game date: 29 December 2019 FALKIRK - JANUARY FIXTURES BairnsNews: As we move into a New Year (2020), and the Winter transfer window opens, Falkirk face four fixtures, three in Ladbrokes League 1 as well as their Fourth Round Scottish Cup-tie at home to Championship Partick Thistle. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 24, 2019 Author Share Posted November 24, 2019 Game date: 1 January 2020 FALKIRK SWEEP MONTHLY AWARDS BairnsNews: Falkirk made a clean sweep of the Ladbrokes League 1 monthly awards for December. Manager Stuniverse won Manager of the Month. Michael Tidser won Player of the Month, ahead of his teammates Jahmal Hector-Ingram (2nd) and David McMillan (3rd). Jahmal Hctor-Ingram won Young Player of the Month. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 24, 2019 Author Share Posted November 24, 2019 Game date: 1 January 2020 BAIRNS BOARD VERY PLEASED WITH STUNIVERSE Monthly Reports Manager Review: Finances: Player Dynamics: 3 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 24, 2019 Author Share Posted November 24, 2019 Game date: 1 January 2020 UNITED KINGDOM LEAVING EUROPEAN UNION Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 24, 2019 Author Share Posted November 24, 2019 (edited) Game date: 2 January 2020 MILLER AND TOSHNEY LEAVE FALKIRK BairnsNews: Gary Miller has completed his free transfer to Ayr United, whilst Lewis Toshney has joined Airdrie on a free transfer, reducing The Bairns wage bill by a combined £1,075 per week. Edited November 24, 2019 by Stuniverse 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 24, 2019 Author Share Posted November 24, 2019 Game date: Saturday 4th January 2020 Pre-match v Peterhead (a) - Ladbrokes League 1 (20) Match Preview BairnsNews: Earlier in the season you drew 0-0 at Balmoor Stadium. Can you improve on that result against Peterhead second time round? Stuniverse: Last time at Balmoor Stadium we played well for the most part, but didn't have our shooting boots on and didn't work their goalkeeper enough. If we can play the same way, but improve our quality in the final third then we're confident of getting a positive result. Of course, I'm sure Peterhead will be equally determined to get something out of the game. Team Selection Doubtful: Tom Grivosti (groin-90) Cammy Bell (shoulder-90) BairnsNews: No changes today but what's the injury situation like? Stuniverse: We almost have a clean bill of health. Nobody's technically injured, although Tom Grivosti (groin) and Cammy Bell (shoulder) are still working their way back to full fitness. Post-match: Peterhead (1) 1-4 (1) Falkirk BairnsNews: Another good win and your impressive run continues. Stuniverse: This game was tougher than the scoreline suggests. We found it difficult to get going against Peterhead first-half. Louis Longridge gave us the lead on 11 minutes but they were level before we'd played quarter of an hour. After the break we took control though and David McMillan, Jahmal Hector-Ingram from the penalty spot, and Aidan Connolly added to our goal tally. BairnsNews: Raith won 2-1 at 4th placed Airdrie. Please LIKE if you enjoyed this update and FOLLOW the thread so you don't miss future updates. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 24, 2019 Author Share Posted November 24, 2019 Game date: 5 January 2020 MUTCH GETS PAY INCREASE BairnsNews: After making his 20th league appearance for Falkirk, 21 year-old goalkeeper Robbie Mutch has triggered a clause in his contract increasing his wage from £400 to £600 per week. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 24, 2019 Author Share Posted November 24, 2019 Game date: 6 January 2020 DUMBARTON LOAN MACLEAN BairnsNews: Dumbarton have signed Falkirk's 22 year-old winger Ross MacLean on loan until the end of the season. Dumbarton will pay 60% (£240) of MacLean's £400 per week salary. With MacLean out-of-contract at the end of the season, The Bairns fans are wondering if MacLean has played his last game for Falkirk. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 24, 2019 Author Share Posted November 24, 2019 Game date: 9 January 2020 BELL SIGNS NEW CONTRACT BairnsNews: Falkirk's 33 year-old goalkeeper Cammy Bell has signed a new deal keeping him at Falkirk Stadium until the summer of 2022. Unnamed club sources inform us Bell has agreed to be back-up to Robbie Mutch and has also accepted a pay-cut of £100 per week. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 24, 2019 Author Share Posted November 24, 2019 (edited) Game date: Saturday 11th January 2020 Pre-match v East Fife (a) - Ladbrokes League 1 (21) Match Preview BairnsNews: You play 3rd placed East Fife today. Last time at Bayview Stadium you drew 1-1. How do you see this one going? Stuniverse: The last time we played East Fife away, it was a very even game and, to be fair, it could've gone either way. We're expecting an equally difficult game today. Team Selection Unavailable: Tom Grivosti (flu) Doubtful: Solal Pelmard-Bassi (hamstring-90) Denny Johnstone (thigh-90) Louis Longridge (knee-90) BairnsNews: One change today. Given the form Longridge has been in, leaving him out is a surprise. What's your thinking? Stuniverse: Louis picked up a slight knee injury in training and, whilst our medical team have cleared him to play, I don't want to risk aggravating it unless absolutely necessary. Charlie Telfer will play wide right today. Post-match: East Fife (0) 0-1 (0) Falkirk BairnsNews: The East Fife supporters were chanting '1-0 to the referee' after he sent off two East Fife players. Do you have any sympathy for them? Stuniverse: I can understand their frustration but no, not really. Both tackles were bad, especially the second one, and I'm just thankful I don't have any injured players as a result. We only managed one goal, from Conor Sammon, mainly due to the brilliance of Brett Long in their goal, but one was enough. BairnsNews: Would you like some good news? Stuniverse: Yes please. BairnsNews: Raith lost 3-1 at Dumbarton giving you a seven point lead at the top of League 1. Please LIKE if you enjoyed this update and FOLLOW the thread so you don't miss future updates. Edited November 24, 2019 by Stuniverse 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 24, 2019 Author Share Posted November 24, 2019 Game date: 18 January 2020 LEITCH MOVES TO CROATIA BairnsNews: Croatian Third Division NK Zadar have completed the signing of Falkirk's 21 year-old midfielder Robbie Leitch. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 28, 2019 Author Share Posted November 28, 2019 (edited) Game date: Saturday 18th January 2020 Pre-match v Partick Thistle (H) - Scottish Cup Fourth Round Match Preview BairnsNews: You beat Partick Thistle 3-2 at The Energy Check Stadium in the Tunnock's Caramel Wafer Challenge Cup, can you beat the Championship side again at Falkirk Stadium in the Scottish cup? Stuniverse: We played very well that day and it gives us confidence. It would be great for the club and the fans if we could beat them again. Team Selection Unavailable: Ian McShane (flu) Declan McManus (virus) Doubtful: Solal Pelmard-Bassi (hamstring-90) Tom Grivosti (groin-90) Denny Johnstone (thigh-90) Aidan Connolly (ankle-90) Louis Longridge (knee-90) BairnsNews: Just the one change. Stuniverse: Yes, although we've lost a couple of subs to illness and we had about five players pass late fitness tests. The change sees Louis Longridge come in for Charlie Telfer. Post-match: Falkirk (2) 3-0 (0) Partick Thistle BairnsNews: Congratulations. Another victory over a team from a higher division. Stuniverse: Thank you. I thought we were the better team from start to finish. We hardly gave them a sniff and David McMillan with a brace, and Jahmal Hector-Ingram, were ruthless in front of goal. BairnsNews: That's the fifth time this season you've beaten a Championship side in cup competitions, and you also hammered a Premiership side 6-1. What do you put it down to? Stuniverse: My players. Simple as that. We have a very talented group of players and they thrive in the big games. Please LIKE if you enjoyed this update and FOLLOW the thread so you don't miss future updates. Edited November 28, 2019 by Stuniverse 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 28, 2019 Author Share Posted November 28, 2019 (edited) Game date: 19 January 2019 FALKIRK AT HOME BairnsNews: Falkirk have been drawn at home to either fierce rivals Dunfermline (Championship) or Hearts (Premiership) in the Fifth Round of the Scottish Cup. Dunfermline will entertain Hearts today with a 3.00 pm kick-off. -- FALKIRK MUST WAIT BairnsNews: The Bairns will have to wait to discover their Fifth Round Scottish Cup opponents after Dunfermline and Hearts played out a 1-1 draw. Edited November 28, 2019 by Stuniverse Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 28, 2019 Author Share Posted November 28, 2019 (edited) Game date: 24 January 2020 GRIVOSTI SET TO JOIN PERMANENTLY BainsNews: Ross County's 20 year-old centre-back Tom Grivosti, currently on loan at Falkirk, has agreed to sign permanently for The Bairns when his contract expires in the summer. Clearly Grivosti has done enough to impress Falkirk manager Stuniverse and will sign until 31 May 2021. Edited November 28, 2019 by Stuniverse 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 28, 2019 Author Share Posted November 28, 2019 Game date: Saturday 25th January 2020 Pre-match v Clyde (H) - Ladbrokes League 1 (22) Match Preview BairnsNews: Last time out at Falkirk Stadium you drew 2-2 with Clyde, but at Broadwood Stadium you won 5-0. What can we expect today? Stuniverse: We also won 3-1 at their place in the Caramel Wafer Cup so it would be nice to get a home win for The Bairns fans. Team Selection Unavailable: Declan McManus (virus) Doubtful: Solal Pelmard-Bassi (hamstring-90) Tom Grivosti (groin-90) Aidan Connolly (ankle-90) Louis Longridge (knee-90) BairnsNews: One change today. Stuniverse: Yes, Tom Grivosti returns for Gregor Buchanan. Post-match: Falkirk (2) 5-0 (0) Clyde BairnsNews: Not only did you score five, Clyde only had one shot all match and it wasn't even on target. Stuniverse: I thought we were absolutely outstanding today, with goals from Jahmal Hector-Ingram from the penalty spot, Efe Ambrose, a brace from Louis Longridge and Michael Tidser completed the scoring. BairnsNews: You've stretched your lead to nine points as Raith drew 1-1 with Stranraer. Stuniverse: I'll take that. Please LIKE if you enjoyed this update and FOLLOW the thread so you don't miss future updates. 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 28, 2019 Author Share Posted November 28, 2019 Game date: 28 January 2020 PELMARD-BASSI SIGNS NEW DEAL BairnsNews: Falkirk's 21 year-old goalkeeper Solal Pelmard-Bassi has signed a new deal with The Bairns until the summer of 2021. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 28, 2019 Author Share Posted November 28, 2019 Game date: 21 January 2020 FALKIRK PLAY HEARTS BairnsNews: Hearts beat Dunfermline 1-0 in their Scottish Cup Fourth Round replay and will now play Falkirk at Falkirk Stadium in the Fifth Round. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 28, 2019 Author Share Posted November 28, 2019 Game date: 31 January 2020 FORFAR SIGN JOHNSTONE BairnsNews: Forfar have signed Falkirk's 25 year-old striker Denny Johnstone. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 28, 2019 Author Share Posted November 28, 2019 Game date: 1 February 2020 JANUARY TRANSFER WINDOW CLOSES BairnsNews: The January transfer window closed in quiet fashion for Falkirk who allowed five players to leave, without bringing anybody in. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 28, 2019 Author Share Posted November 28, 2019 Game date: 1 February 2020 STUNIVERSE WINS MANAGER OF THE MONTH FOR JANUARY Lex Miller's comments Efe Ambrose wins Player of the Month in Falkirk clean sweep Jahmal Hector-Ingram wins Young Player of the Month Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 28, 2019 Author Share Posted November 28, 2019 Game date: 1 February 2020 MONTHLY REPORTS Manager Review Finances Player Dynamics Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 28, 2019 Author Share Posted November 28, 2019 (edited) Game date: 1 February 2020 FALKIRK - FEBRUARY FIXTURES BairnsNews: Falkirk face a busy schedule in February with five league games, plus a Tunnock's Caramel Wafer Challenge Cup Semi-Final against fierce rivals Dunfermline (Championship), and the Scottish Cup Fifth Round tie against Hearts (Premiership). Edited November 28, 2019 by Stuniverse Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 28, 2019 Author Share Posted November 28, 2019 (edited) Game date: Saturday 1st February 2020 Pre-match v Airdrieonians (H) - Ladbrokes League 1 (23) Match Preview BairnsNews: Airdrie may be 4th, but they've also lost five of their last eight matches. What are you expecting today? Stuniverse: We're at home, and The Bairns fans will be right behind us as they always are. We're playing unbelievably well, and confidence is high, so I'm expecting us to keep our good run going today. Team Selection Unavailable: Declan McManus (virus) Doubtful: Tom Grivosti (groin-90) Aidan Connolly (ankle-90) BairnsNews: It seems like you always make one change just lately. Stuniverse: It's not deliberate, I can assure you. Tom Grivosti picked up a groin strain in training so our captain Gregor Buchanan comes back in. Post-match: Falkirk (2) 2-0 (0) Airdrieonians BairnsNews: That's nine straight league wins now. Stuniverse: Yes. This squad is incredibly talented and playing with a lot of confidence. Jahmal Hector-Ingram and Louis Longridge scored our goals. It could've been more too, Aidan Connolly hit the post and Charlie Telfer had a penalty saved. BairnsNews: Telfer's missed a few penalties this season. Are you considering taking him off penalties? Stuniverse: Jahmal Hector-Ingram and Conor Sammon have both scored penalties for us this season, when Charlie's not been on the pitch, so it's something I'll be thinking about. Please LIKE if you enjoyed this update and FOLLOW the thread so you don't miss future updates. Edited November 28, 2019 by Stuniverse 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 30, 2019 Author Share Posted November 30, 2019 Game date: Saturday 8th February 2020 Pre-match v Hearts (H) - Scottish Cup 5th Round Match Preview BairnsNews: You entertain a Hearts side today, who are 4th in the Premiership. Given the rivalry with Hearts, does this make the Cup-tie even more special? Stuniverse: I don't want to play this game down, as it's a massive challenge for us today, but from what I gather this rivalry is very much a historic one that is nowhere near as important to our fans as the Dunfermline and Stenhousemuir rivalries. That said, we're at home to a very good Premiership club and it's going to be a big test for us. The Premiership is where we want to be, and we want to get back there as soon as we can, so today we'll get an idea of how close we are. We gave Celtic and Motherwell good games in the Betfred Cup and also beat Ross County so a win, a draw and a loss so far against Premiership opposition. Today we will do our best, give it everything and try and get a result for the Bairns fans. Team Selection Unavailable: Gregor Buchanan (suspended) Doubtful: Tom Grivosti (groin-90) David McMillan (calf-90) BairnsNews: Two changes today, both enforced I understand. Stuniverse: Yes. Our captain Gregor Buchanan is suspended so Tom Grivosti returns after a groin problem. David McMillan has been struggling with a calf issue, allowing us to give Conor Sammon his first start since a spell out with a groin strain. Post-match: Falkirk (1) 2-0 (0) Hearts BairnsNews: Congratulations. You were full of praise for Hearts before the match. How does it feel to have beaten them? Stuniverse: It feels great and I'm delighted for the players and the fans. Hearts are a very good side and we saw that today, at times they were on another level. But we were out the blocks very quickly in both halves and seven was the magic number. Conor Sammon gave us the lead after seven minutes with a shot that hit both posts before crossing the line. Seven minutes after the break, Jahmal Hector-Ingram rounded the keeper and slotted home from a tight angle. To a man, we defended brilliantly, I lost count of the number of crucial tackles and blocks my players threw themselves into for the cause. I'm so proud of all my players today, they were superb. BairnsNews: In the league, Raith drew 0-0 with Forfar. Stuniverse: Thanks. If my maths is correct that means we're eight points clear with a game-in-hand. Please LIKE if you enjoyed this update and FOLLOW the thread so you don't miss future updates. 4 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
kidthekid Posted November 30, 2019 Share Posted November 30, 2019 incredible result 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 30, 2019 Author Share Posted November 30, 2019 1 minute ago, kidthekid said: incredible result Thank you, @kidthekid. It was a pretty even game but I like to think we were good value for it. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
samboing Posted November 30, 2019 Share Posted November 30, 2019 This is going so well, Celtic and Rangers will be quaking in their boots soon enough. Keep up the excellent work 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 30, 2019 Author Share Posted November 30, 2019 1 hour ago, samboing said: This is going so well, Celtic and Rangers will be quaking in their boots soon enough. Keep up the excellent work Thank you, @samboing. When we were struggling to get shots on target at the beginning of the season, I never imagined things would be going this well by February. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 30, 2019 Author Share Posted November 30, 2019 (edited) Game date: 9 February 2020 CELTIC AGAIN - LENNON AGAIN BairnsNews: Falkirk have been drawn away to Celtic in the Quarter-Final of the Scottish Cup. Earlier this season, Falkirk lost 2-0 to Celtic in the Semi-Final of the Betfred Cup with the managers Neil Lennon (Celtic) and Stuniverse (Falkirk) getting involved in a war-of-words. Edited November 30, 2019 by Stuniverse Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 30, 2019 Author Share Posted November 30, 2019 (edited) Game date: 11 February 2020 TOP SCORER EXTENDS LOAN STAY BairnsNews: Falkirk have confirmed that their top goal scorer, 21 year-old striker Jahmal Hector-Ingram has extended his loan spell from Derby County until the end of next season. Hector-Ingram has scored 16 goals in 28 appearances for The Bairns. Edited November 30, 2019 by Stuniverse 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 30, 2019 Author Share Posted November 30, 2019 Game date: Tuesday 11th February 2020 Pre-match v Montrose (a) - Ladbrokes League 1 (24) Match Preview BairnsNews: After your cup exploits at the weekend, is there a chance of taking your eye off the ball at bottom club Montrose tonight? Stuniverse: The Cup runs are great, and way beyond what we expected this season, but we're all too aware that the league is our bread-and-butter and we've given ourselves a great opportunity to achieve our aim this season of promotion. We can't afford to blow it now. Of course, there's no guarantee we'll keep winning, and with every game we extend our winning streak we make ourselves a bigger target to be shot at. The one thing I do know, is that if we ever walk out onto the pitch thinking we've already won it, then that's the day we'll get turned over. This is a fantastic squad of talented and professional players and we're confident of getting the job done tonight. Team Selection Doubtful: Tom Grivosti (groin-90) David McMillan (calf-90) BairnsNews: An unchanged team. Stuniverse: Yes. The players were magnificent against Hearts and they deserve to go again. Post-match: Montrose (0) 0-2 (1) Falkirk BairnsNews: I suppose if you're going to have a man sent off after six minutes it's best if it's against the bottom team. Could you have made a worse start? Stuniverse: Yes. They could've scored after six minutes. Seriously, the early red card made things very difficult for us, but we will be appealing the straight red. It was a professional foul from Tom Grivosti, sure, about six yards inside their half. It wasn't a dangerous tackle, the player wasn't hurt, and we had three covering defenders inside our own half. We were flabbergasted at the time as we felt it should've been a yellow card. We tried to go with three at the back after that, but it wasn't working. We had to sacrifice Aidan Connolly, to bring Paul Dixon on, although Aidan made that decision easier for me with his early yellow card. Montrose gave it a good go and I thought play was fairly even after the red card. Jahmal Hector-Ingram gave us the lead on the stroke of halftime and that relaxed us and made the team talk during the break calmer than it otherwise would've been. Conor Sammon made it 2-0 on the hour and Montrose didn't trouble us after that. BairnsNews: Winning your game-in-hand gives you an 11-point lead at the top. Please LIKE if you enjoyed this update and FOLLOW the thread so you don't miss future updates. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 30, 2019 Author Share Posted November 30, 2019 Game date: 15 February 2020 DUNDEE REACH THE FINAL BairnsNews: Dundee beat arch-rivals Dundee United 3-0 to reach the Final of the Tunnock's Caramel Wafer Challenge Cup, where they will face the winners of tomorrow's Falkirk v Dunfermline semi-final. We'll be catching up with Falkirk manager Stuniverse ahead of the game to see if he understands what the Dunfermline rivalry means to the Bairns fans. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 30, 2019 Author Share Posted November 30, 2019 (edited) Game date: Sunday 16th February 2020 Pre-match v Dunfermline Athletic (H) - Tunnock's Caramel Wafer Challenge Cup Semi-Final Match Preview BairnsNews: What do you know about the rivalry with Dunfermline? Stuniverse: I've heard it's one of the fiercest in Scotland, right up there with Celtic-Rangers, maybe even the most fierce after some of the incidents that have happened both on and off the pitch. I've heard nothing else since I've been up here and I can't wait to experience the atmosphere at Falkirk Stadium. With around 13 miles, and over 30 years of enmity, between Falkirk and Dunfermline it's hardly surprising. I hope we can give The Bairns fans the bragging rights with a win and that nothing unsavoury happens either on or off the pitch. BairnsNews: Dunfermline are 4th in the Championship and looking good value for the playoffs. Does that make them favourites? Stuniverse: You're stretching things a bit there. Dunfermline aren't going to catch the top three and, with Ayr and Partick snapping at their heels, I can see them missing out on the playoffs. BairnsNews: What would mean more, reaching the Final or beating Dunfermline? Stuniverse: Look we're in this game to win trophies but how much sweeter to beat Dunfermline to reach the Final. The game is a sell-out, the atmosphere is going to be something else, and I can assure The Bairns fans we'll be doing everything we can to give them the bragging rights. Team Selection Doubtful: David McMillan (calf-90) BairnsNews: One change today. Buchanan for Grivosti. Stuniverse: Yes. It has nothing to do with Tom Grivosti's sending-off at Montrose, although he is very down that our appeal has been rejected, but I just thought in the intense atmosphere that is Falkirk v Dunfermline we needed our captain Gregor Buchanan. Post-match: Falkirk (1) 2-0 (0) Dunfermline Athletic BairnsNews: What did you make of your first Falkirk v Dunfermline derby? Stuniverse: I loved it. The atmosphere was incredible and we were by far the better team. If they're all like that, I look forward to many, many more and four in the Championship next season would be perfect. Aidan Connolly gave us the lead just before the break, and David McMillan came off the bench to add a late second, but we could've had more as Jahmal Hector-Ingram rattled the woodwork in the first-half and he also had a second-half penalty saved. The Bairns fans were incredible; they inspired the players and, at times, the hairs on the back of my neck were standing up. The atmosphere was electric. BairnsNews: What about the three penalties? Stuniverse: To be fair, I thought none of them were penalties so perhaps justice was done. Three saves though, rather than three misses. Their keeper did well to deny Jahmal at 1-0. And then Robbie Mutch made two fantastic penalty saves for us, the first to keep it at 1-0 and the second to prevent them pulling it back to 2-1. BairnsNews: You made your substitutions later than normal, why was that? Stuniverse: To be honest, I thought we were always on top and I was expecting a lot of yellow cards, so I was holding back the subs to protect players from two yellows equalling a red, but it wasn't that sort of game at all, I think the referee kept his cards in his pocket all game. This one is for The Bairns fans. I hope they enjoyed it and and can revel in the bragging rights. Come on Ye Bairns! Tagged: Thanks for your help and patience answering my Falkirk related questions, @HarrisFFC. I hope I did the rivalry with Dunfermline justice. Please LIKE if you enjoyed this update and FOLLOW the thread so you don't miss future updates. Edited November 30, 2019 by Stuniverse 3 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
SRL88 Posted November 30, 2019 Share Posted November 30, 2019 Easing your way to that title 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 30, 2019 Author Share Posted November 30, 2019 29 minutes ago, SRL88 said: Easing your way to that title I would like to think so, @SRL88. I would expect to be sacked if we blow it from here. We play 2nd placed Raith next. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 30, 2019 Author Share Posted November 30, 2019 Game date: 21 February 2020 HECTOR-INGRAM OUT INJURED BairnsNews: Falkirk have suffered a blow with news that top goal scorer Jahmal Hetor-Ingram will be out for up to six weeks with a hamstring strain. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 30, 2019 Author Share Posted November 30, 2019 Game date: Saturday 22nd February 2020 Pre-match v Raith Rovers (H) - Ladbrokes League 1 (25) Match Preview BairnsNews: Raith come to Falkirk Stadium in 2nd place, eight points behind you from a game more. A win today will give you an 11 point lead, with a game-in-hand, and 11 games left to play. Can you do that? Stuniverse: We believe so. We've already beaten Raith three times this season, twice in the league, and we'd like nothing more than to make it four-out-of-four. Raith are a good side though, with good players, so it won't be easy. Team Selection Unavailable: Tom Grivosti (suspended) Calum Macdonald (suspended) Jahmal Hector-Ingram (hamstring) Doubtful: Ian McShane (food poisoning-75) David McMillan (calf-90) BairnsNews: You're missing some key players too, including your top goal scorer. Stuniverse: Yes. We're really down to our bare bones, so much so that we've had to put two goalkeepers on the bench, plus Ian McShane (food poisoning), who isn't really well enough to play. Two changes with Paul Dixon starting for the suspended Calum Macdonald and David McMillan coming in for Jahmal Hector-Ingram (hamstring), who will be out for weeks. Post-match: Falkirk (0) 2-0 (0) Raith Rovers BairnsNews: Congratulations. You beat Raith again. Stuniverse: Thank you. I'll take it, of course I'll take it, but we got away with one today. Raith were better than us, I thought. In the first-half, they were all over us and we couldn't get close to them. In the second-half, after Declan MacManus came on as sub and gave us the lead, against the run of play, we went defensive and started time wasting and I think that's the first time this season we've done that. Conor Sammon made it 2-0 near the end but, and I don't like singling out individuals, we really have to thank our goalkeeper Robbie Mutch for keeping us in it; Robbie played the game of his life today. BairnsNews: Your lead over Raith is now 11 points, 14 if you win your game-in-hand, and Raith only have 10 matches left to play. The title looks like it's heading your way, doesn't it? Stuniverse: There's a lot that can happen during the run-in, but we have given ourselves a great chance. It's up to us now to make sue we see it through and get the job done. Please LIKE if you enjoyed this update and FOLLOW the thread so you don't miss future updates. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 30, 2019 Author Share Posted November 30, 2019 Game date: Tuesday 25th February 2020 Pre-match v Stranraer (a) - Ladbrokes League 1 (26) Match Preview BairnsNews: You lost 1-0 to Stranraer at Stair Park earlier in the season. Can you do better today? Stuniverse: We hope so. We weren't at our best against Raith last time out, even though we won in the end. We'll try and perform better tonight and hopefully that'll be enough to get the result we want. Team Selection Unavailable: Jahmal Hector-Ingram (hamstring) Doubtful: Ian McShane (food poisoning-45) BairnsNews: Two changes. Stuniverse: Yes. We welcome back Tom Grivosti and Calum Macdonald after suspension for Gregor Buchanan and Paul Dixon. Post-match: Stranraer (0) 0-4 (3) Falkirk BairnsNews: You have to be happy with that? Stuniverse: Yes. We were back on form today. Louis Longridge got us started and Conor Sammon scored a hat-trick, with two coming from the penalty spot. BairnsNews: Winning your game-in-hand guarantees a playoff spot. Stuniverse: That's good to know but we're aiming for automatic promotion as Champions. To that end, we need to keep working hard to avoid any complacency setting in. Please LIKE if you enjoyed this update and FOLLOW the thread so you don't miss future updates. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 30, 2019 Author Share Posted November 30, 2019 Game date: Saturday 29th February 2020 Pre-match v Celtic (a) - Scottish Cup Quarter-Final Match Preview BairnsNews: Despite losing 2-0, you performed well against Celtic last time in the Betfred Cup Semi-Final. How do you see today going? Stuniverse: Well, Celtic know what to expect from us now which, I expect, will make it tougher for us this time than first time round. That said, we did create chances against them, and that gives us confidence. Celtic are clear favourites, for obvious reasons, but we have to believe we have a chance of causing an upset. Team Selection Unavailable: Calum Macdonald (suspended) Jahmal Hector-Ingram (hamstring) Doubtful: Ian McShane (food poisoning-45) BairnsNews: Two changes today. Stuniverse: Yes, Paul Dixon comes in for the suspended Calum Macdonald and our captain Gregor Buchanan replaces Tom Grivosti. Post-match: Celtic (1) 3-1 (0) Falkirk BairnsNews: Unlucky. You lost 3-1 but hit the woodwork an incredible three times. How did you see it? Stuniverse: We certainly didn't have any luck today. David McMillan hit the post when it was still 0-0 and the woodwork denied us twice after the break but, in fairness, Celtic were already ahead by then. At times, Celtic were at a whole different level but, at other times, I thought we competed and caused them problems. Aidan Connolly ran half the length of the pitch to score a sensational goal that gave us a lifeline at 2-1. We pushed hard for an equaliser but Celtic made it 3-1 and saw the game out. BairnsNews: Longridge looked to be struggling by the end. Stuniverse: Louis has pulled knee ligaments which could be three weeks out. Unfortunately, we'd already made our substitutions and, in playing on, Louis may have made it worse. Please LIKE if you enjoyed this update and FOLLOW the thread so you don't miss future updates. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 30, 2019 Author Share Posted November 30, 2019 Game date: 1 March 2020 FALKIRK - MARCH FIXTURES BairnsNews: Falkirk face five league fixtures in March, plus the Tunnock's Caramel Wafer Cup Final against Dundee. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 30, 2019 Author Share Posted November 30, 2019 Game date: 1 March 2020 STUNIVERSE WINS MARCH MANAGER OF THE MONTH SAMMON WINS MARCH PLAYER OF THE MONTH 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted November 30, 2019 Author Share Posted November 30, 2019 Game date: 1 March 2020 MONTHLY REPORTS Manager Performance Review Finances Player Dynamics Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 1, 2019 Author Share Posted December 1, 2019 Game date: Tuesday 23rd March 2020 Pre-match v Forfar Athletic (H) - Ladbrokes League 1 (27) Match Preview BairnsNews: Congratulations on winning the Manager of the Month Award for February. Stuniverse: Thank you, but my players deserve all the credit, not me. Team Selection Unavailable: Louis Longridge (knee) Jahmal Hector-Ingram (hamstring) Doubtful: Ian McShane (food poisoning-75) BairnsNews: Three changes. Stuniverse: Yes. Calum Macdonald returns from suspension for Paul Dixon, Tom Grivosti replaces Gregor Buchanan, and Declan McManus starts up front instead of David McMillan. Post-match: Falkirk (2) 3-0 (0) Forfar Athletic BairnsNews: Tonight's win extends your incredible winning streak in the league to 13 matches. How did you see this one? Stuniverse: I thought we controlled the game from the moment Conor Sammon gave us a fourth minute lead. Aidan Connolly added a second shortly after. In the second-half, Conor grabbed his brace from the penalty spot. BairnsNews: Winning your game-in-hand takes you 14 points clear of Raith with only nine matches to go. Stuniverse: It's very much in our own hands and we're determined to get the job done. Please LIKE if you enjoyed this update and FOLLOW the thread so you don't miss future updates. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
SRL88 Posted December 1, 2019 Share Posted December 1, 2019 Great win streak 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 1, 2019 Author Share Posted December 1, 2019 2 minutes ago, SRL88 said: Great win streak Thanks, @SRL88. Yes, at the moment it looks like only Celtic can beat us. Even when Raith outplayed us we still managed to find a way to win 😀 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 1, 2019 Author Share Posted December 1, 2019 (edited) Game date: 6 March 2020 MACDONALD EXTENDS STAY BairnsNews: Blackpool's 22 year-old left-back Calum Macdonald has extended his loan to Falkirk until the end of next season. We understand from club sources that Falkirk wanted to extend the loan at the same time they extended Jahmal Hector-Ingram's but, at the time, Blackpool wren't interested as they wanted to give Macdonald a chance in the first team next season. The Bairns manager Stuniverse kept contacting Blackpool and the situation has changed sufficiently for the two cubs to agree a loan extension. Edited December 1, 2019 by Stuniverse 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stuniverse Posted December 1, 2019 Author Share Posted December 1, 2019 Game date: Saturday 7th March 2020 Pre-match v Peterhead (H) - Ladbrokes League 1 (28) Match Preview Team Selection Unavailable: Louis Longridge (knee) Jahmal Hector-Ingram (hamstring) Doubtful: Ian McShane (food poisoning-75) Stuniverse: No changes, we go with the same starting 11 and subs bench as last time. Post-match: Falkirk (2) 3-0 (0) Peterhead BairnsNews: The Bairns go marching on. That's 14 straight league wins now. Stuniverse: Another game where we were in complete control and did a professional job. Conor Sammon and Charlie Telfer put us 2-0 up at the break. We left the best until last with Michael Tidser's stunning free-kick late on. BairnsNews: Raith won as well so it's as you were. Stuniverse: As we were, but with a game less to play. Please LIKE if you enjoyed this update and FOLLOW the thread so you don't miss future updates. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now