Arbroath vs Partick Match Recap - Dec 13, 2025

Arbroath Stuns Partick with a 2-1 Victory, Shifting Championship Dynamics

Arbroath's 2-1 victory over Partick Thistle at Gayfield Park marks a significant turning point in the Championship race. With this win, Arbroath solidifies its position in third place, now just nine points behind Partick, who remains in second. The result underscores Arbroath's recent resurgence, having won four of their last five matches, while Partick's form continues to falter with only one win in their last five outings.

Brooklyn Kabongolo has emerged as a key player for Arbroath, consistently delivering in crucial moments. His contributions were pivotal in the recent victories against Dunfermline and East Fife, and he continued his impressive form today. Scoring opportunities created by Kabongolo have been instrumental in Arbroath's attacking strategy, allowing them to capitalize on defensive lapses from opponents. His ability to stretch defenses and create space has been a game-changer, and today was no exception.

Partick's struggles are becoming increasingly evident, particularly in their inability to convert draws into wins. Despite a strong start to the season, they have only managed one goal in their last three league matches. The reliance on Tony Watt to lead the attack has not yielded the expected results, as he has been unable to find the net consistently. This lack of offensive production raises questions about Partick's title aspirations and their capacity to maintain pressure on the league leaders.

The match showcased contrasting styles, with Arbroath's high press disrupting Partick's buildup play. Arbroath's tactical approach forced Partick into uncomfortable positions, leading to mistakes that ultimately cost them the game. The red card issued to Watson in the 74th minute could have shifted momentum, but Arbroath held firm defensively, showcasing resilience under pressure. This discipline will be crucial as they look to build on this victory in upcoming fixtures.

Defensively, Arbroath has improved significantly over the past few weeks. After a string of mixed results earlier in the season, they have tightened their backline, conceding only two goals in their last five matches. This newfound solidity allows them to play with confidence, knowing they can rely on their defense while pushing forward for goals. The combination of solid defending and effective counterattacks has made them a formidable opponent.

Partick's next match against Raith Rovers will be critical for their morale and league standing. They must address their attacking inefficiencies if they hope to regain momentum and challenge for promotion. The pressure is mounting on manager Ian McCall to find solutions that can reignite their scoring touch and restore confidence within the squad.

Arbroath's victory today not only boosts their own confidence but also sends a message to the rest of the league. They are not just content with mid-table mediocrity; they are aiming for promotion and are willing to fight for every point. The emergence of players like Reilly, who scored today, adds depth to their attacking options and makes them a more dangerous side moving forward.

Reflecting on my pre-match prediction, I underestimated Arbroath's ability to capitalize on home advantage and their current form. They have proven that they can compete with the best in the league, and this victory is a testament to their hard work and determination. As they prepare for their next match against Ross County, the momentum is firmly on their side.

Partick must regroup quickly if they wish to remain competitive in the title race. With only a few points separating them from teams below, every match becomes crucial. The pressure is on as they seek to reclaim their scoring prowess and avoid slipping further down the standings. The championship race is far from over, but today's result has certainly shifted the narrative in favor of Arbroath.