Falkirk will host Celtic this Sunday with the Scottish FA confirming the match officials for the Premiership fixture at the Falkirk Stadium. The appointment of referee Duncan Nicolson continues his successful record with the visitors, who have won all four games he has taken charge of across this season and last.
Falkirk go into the match in sixth place with 15 points from 11 games, sitting 13 points behind the league leaders. Their recent form provides a platform of confidence, having secured three consecutive victories, the latest a 0-1 away win over Aberdeen on October 28th. Ben Krauhaus scored the decisive goal in the 73rd minute, assisted by Ryan Strain, to continue the team's momentum.
Referee assignment details
Nicolson will be assisted by Frank Connor and Daniel McFarlane on the lines, with Kevin Clancy as the video assistant referee and Duncan Williams as the assistant VAR. The referee oversaw Celtic's 3-0 win over Aberdeen earlier this season and took charge of three of their league victories last term. His only previous Falkirk appointment this campaign was the Bairns' 2-0 home defeat to St Mirren at the start of the season. The Scottish FA's Head of Referee Operations, Crawford Allan, commented that Nicolson's performances in high-profile matches this season have been "consistent and authoritative."
Celtic arrive needing a convincing performance after a recent 2-2 draw with Dundee United, having managed just one win in their last three outings. Manager Brendan Rodgers acknowledged his side's recent form has been "below the standard we set," but emphasized the importance of a strong response. The last meeting between the sides ended in a 2-1 victory for Celtic back in August, a match where Falkirk took an early lead. Falkirk's top scorer this season is Jacob Murrell with five goals, and his partnership with providers like Ryan Strain will be key to testing the champions. Celtic captain Callum McGregor is expected to return to the starting lineup after being rested midweek.
The match kicks off at 1 pm on Sunday, November 1st. A sold-out crowd is expected at the Falkirk Stadium, with the club confirming no tickets remain for home or away sections. Fans can view the full upcoming fixtures schedule and the current standings on the club's official pages. Falkirk will aim to use their home advantage to close the gap on the teams above them.
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