FIVE THINGS WE LEARNED FROM THE SPFL THIS WEEKEND

KYOGO IS BACK ON THE GOAL TRAIL

ANY notion Kyogo Furuhashi was short of confidence in front of goal was dispelled with his ferocious ninth-minute strike that paved the way for Celtic’s 3-0 win at Livingston. Goalless in his last five outings, he scored with his first chance and looked back to his lively best. Working hard off the ball, his pace and constant energy made life difficult for Livi’s backline.

GIO FINALLY RECEIVES A RAPID RESPONSE

WHEN Aberdeen went ahead against Rangers after some lax defending, the murmurs of discontent around Ibrox were growing. Yet the response was emphatic. Ryan Kent and Fashion Sakala had space to attack and run at the Dons’ defence. They got their reward, winning 4-1 in style to crush some of those lingering doubts about the resolve of Gio van Bronckhorst’s side.

NEWELL THE JEWEL IN HIBS’ MIDFIELD

THE Hibs midfield dominated St Mirren on Saturday, halting a run of three defeats on the spin as they returned to third in the table. Joe Newell impressed. His defence-splitting pass for the ‘goal’ that was ruled out for offside by VAR was an early warning for Saints. Newell (pictured) went on to run the show in the 3-0 victory.

IT’S JEEPERS KEEPERS AT TANNADICE

NEITHER Carljohan Eriksson nor Mark Birighitti look viable replacements for Benjamin Siegrist at Dundee United, both exchanging blunders all season. Birighitti was unconvincing for Motherwell’s goal in the 1-0 defeat at Tannadice. United have conceded 26 goals, the worst in the Premiership. Birighitti was in goal for the 7-0 loss in Alkmaar while Eriksson saw nine fly past him against Celtic.

WORTH KEEPING THE FAITH IN RAITH

SITTING seventh in the Championship would suggest Raith are a long way from being promotion candidates, but Rovers are only five points off the summit and two adrift of second. They beat Partick 30 after a blistering first-half at Stark’s Park. Snapping at the heels of a congested top half, don’t be surprised if they break into the top four soon.