So Ayr United will be taking on Still Game star Scott Brown, one-time Celtic and boozer-botherer team-mate Barry Robson who’s just taken over at Raith Rovers. It is due to take place at Somerset Park on January 4, 2025 as part of the Scottish Championship.
Comrades at One Time; Adversaries, Now
Brown and Robson both had successful playing careers at Celtic before making the switch to management. Scott Brown, the Ayr United manager since 2024, has guided the club to third in the Championship with 35 points from 19 games. Robson’s week at the helm of Raith Rovers – in the midst of October 2023 – will feature some challenges; the newly-appointed boss will be plying his trade with a sixth-place team.
Recent Form Ayr United
Ayr United shown decent form under Brown’s stewardship. Their last game came on December 28, 2024, when they drew 0-0 with Greenock Morton. Speaking before the January transfer window, Brown admitted: “We need to add a bit more firepower up top anyway.” This was one of the latest updates from Scott Brown.
Managerial changes at Raith Rovers
This has been a season of managerial instability at Raith Rovers. The club struggled to find a successor after Ian Murray was dismissed following a season-opening defeat to Airdrieonians. David Healy, the former Rangers striker, was among those who turned down the role. In the end, the successful candidate was Barry Robson, who had experience in various coaching positions including working with Scott Brown.
Head-to-Head Record
Their last meeting was on November 1, 2024 when Raith Rovers defeated Ayr United 2-0, courtesy of 2 goals from Lewis Jamieson. Brown will be desperate to put this behind them and use their home ground advantage with a Somerset Park show against Ayr United. Scott Brown wants to showcase the progress at Ayr United.
What This Means for the Championship Standings
Ayr United lie third in the table on 35 points, with Raith Rovers sixth on 24. Ayr are the team with promotion on their mind and a win against Raith would widen their gap to them; a win for the visitors would narrow that gap. The influence of Scott Brown on Ayr United’s current standings is evident.
Looking Ahead
Given that the January transfer window is now open, both managers will be looking to bring in players who can improve their squads. Brown has said he is looking to bring in a striker, having recently struggled for goals. Starting with Raith Rovers, Robson will be considering what he can add to the team to ensure he is able to deliver on his vision. Scott Brown also looks to strengthen his Ayr United squad.
