Football Season Guide

A rather unspectacular season from Partick Thistle saw them secure a ninth placed finish in the Scottish Premiership, and ensure that their three-year-long stay in the division was extended by another. Another poor season in terms of cup competitions - losing 1-0 to Dundee United in the Scottish Cup fifth round and 1-0 to Falkirk in the League Cup second round - meant that there wasn't a lot for the Jags fans to celebrate other than their consolidation of their Premiership status. However, entering their fourth year in the league, now is the time for serious improvement to be made. The top six is a bit of a stretch for Partick, but they have to really introduce themselves into the fight this term. There were spells last season where they gatecrashed the top six, but they never looked capable of keeping their slot in it, and their subsequent plummet down to ninth was predictable. So far, Thistle have held on to some of their more key assets such as Steven Lawless and Stuart Bannigan, and have bolstered their squad depth some shrewd signings such as David Syme and Daniel Devine. The acquisition of Ziggy Gordon from Hamilton should also give the a positive outlet down the left-hand side, and you can see the improvements Alan Archibald is trying to make. Despite a top six place perhaps being a bit much to expect this term, such is the strength of the likes of Ross County, Hearts and Rangers, they need to ensure that they're well away from those relegation slots and prove that they're gradually improving as the seasons go on.