SPFL Fans’ Preview: Falkirk looking to push the big boys once again

Welcome to the latest edition of our Ladbrokes SPFL Fans’ Previews. In the build-up to the new campaign we’re asking a cross-section of passionate supporters how they think their side will get on and who’ll shine this season. 

Ryan Jones is our resident Falkirk expert. He is can be seen on the terracing, both home and away, every week, as well as being the main man at the One F in Falkirk forum.

Here’s how he’s calling it…

The Club:

If you could sign one star from the past…

I’m going to presume this can be anyone.  Falkirk need a creative player badly.  Someone who isn’t afraid to take a player on and can unlock opposition backlines.

So, and I’m going to cheat here and name two, I’m thinking a Kevin McAllister or Latapy sort.  Either that or a bit of a skilful rocket of a player the fans can get behind.  Alex Rae springs to mind!

I’m most excited about this season because…

This is tough to answer.  I was incredibly excited about carrying on from last season but it has all gone a little flat.  We expected to lose Blair Alston and Will Vaulks but I think we all expected a little more activity in terms of players joining.

So rather than look forward to another title push I think I’m just going to look forward to the simple things in life like the opportunity to pump Dunfermline four times a season again as well as the usually enjoyable trips to Tannadice and Easter Road

I’m least excited about this season because… 

A few things. I’m not too happy about the re-structuring of the League Cup and the Challenge Cup and it can get a little dull playing the same teams four times a season.

Two songs that define your side?

Many potential songs to be honest so will plump for So You Win Again by Hot Chocolate (as in, Falkirk are the losers) and Magic Carpet Ride by Steppenwolf as we’re a club full of dreamers.

Actor that would play your gaffer in a film and why?

JK Simmons.  First balding guy that popped into my head to be honest but could see him dishing out some hairdryer treatments as well as delivering an excellent “deal with it” parody of Houston.

Player Section:

Key Player?

Tough one as few shining lights – we’re much more of a collective – but Peter Grant will be hugely important once fit and Craig Sibbald is one of the few that offers something different.

Weak links?

We’re lacking something in midfield still.  I don’t think we have proper width or creativity nor the players to chip in with goals.

Headline Generator?

Hopefully going to be Bob McHugh continuing his late goal streak!

Young player to watch this season?

There are younger players to watch out for but Nathan Austin at 22 still scrapes in!  I think he has something about him and will make the step up nicely from East Fife.

Looking forward to seeing what he brings to Falkirk.

League Predictions:

Your position?

I had hoped for second but now it’s fourth. .

Title winner?

Hibs

2nd Place?

Dundee United

Bottom?

Ayr United

Top Goalscorer pick?

Tough call, Grant Holt perhaps (if he can be bothered) but someone like Falkirk‘s John Baird (if he can be bothered too actually) could equally have a shot.

Surprise team of the season?

Dunfermline. But I mean surprisingly bad.  Many are tipping them to be something decent this year but I just don’t see it.  So I think they will surprise a few by being average at best.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing