Football Season Review

№12: Hamilton Academical

A heart-breaking relegation finally ends Hamilton’s 7-year top flight spell. Hamilton were off to a terrible start that left them facing an uphill struggle from early on. Away wins against Motherwell and Livingston sole bright spots, before an eight-game spell without a win left them with a mountain to climb. An enormous injury list left the club in serious trouble, often struggling to fill a bench with senior players. The ongoing COVID situation, together with a limited playing budget, meant manager Rice was unable to reinforce his squad. The forward line was a consistent issue, with midfielder Callachan the main attacking threat, but the likes of Moyo, Winter and Smith failing to perform consistently. Defensively, things were a little better. Odoffin’s move from full back to midfield proved effective as he consistently ranked among the best in the league for interceptions and tackles. Young players like Jamie Hamilton and Lewis Smith both impressed but struggled with injuries. Anderson’s arrival on loan from Aberdeen seemed to give the team some hope, as he began to form a forward partnership with Ogboe. More late injuries essentially put paid to any survival hopes, with excellent keeper Fulton involved in an accident at home. Despite a late win over St Mirren, Hamilton simply couldn’t get the necessary points on the board. Relegation is a big blow, but Hamilton’s strong academy system gives them a good chance of bouncing back quickly.


Player of the Season: Ross Callachan