Football Season Guide

Despite showing promise last season which included only two defeats in the second half of the regular season, Falkirk again failed to mount a real title challenge as they finished nine points adrift of a Hibs team who were hardly trying in the last month of the season. Hopes were high entering the play-offs, but the Bairns were narrowly eliminated by Dundee United. While they played some of the most attractive football in the Championship, they did not meet their primary aim of gaining promotion. This season, with no hot favourites for the title, Falkirk will fancy their chances of finishing top of the pile. At the very least they are expecting another high finish and taking their chances in the play-offs. One of their main assets, Craig Sibbald, is out of contract and intent on a move to English football. While he will be a loss, Falkirk could invest the development compensation proceeds wisely. Falkirk may also be weakened at the back with goalkeeper Danny Rogers returning to Aberdeen and left-back Luke Leahy moving to Walsall. Better news for Falkirk is the recapture of striker Rory Loy after an unsettled time at Dundee. The Falkirk youth system continues to produce some promising talent with Tony Gallacher expected to make a big impact this season. Falkirk have the stadium and support to move up a level. They have come close in recent seasons but they are reluctant to gamble and spend the money required to ensure they reach the Premiership. While the play-offs are keeping their fans happy at the moment, another season without a serious title challenge will put manager Peter Houston under pressure. There is no doubt Falkirk will continue to be strong at home. They were undone by a poor start last season and their inability to consistently take points from the teams around them at the top of the table. A strong start from the Bairns could install them as potential title winners.