Queen’s Park Football Club kicked off 2025 on a high note, securing a commendable 2-0 victory against Livingston at Hampden Park on January 5, 2025. Head Coach Callum Davidson made key changes to the starting lineup to adapt to the match's challenges. Henry Fieldson replaced Josh Scott at left back, and Nikola Ujdur stepped in for Dane Murray, who had been recalled by Celtic.
The game began under chilly conditions, with Queen’s Park quickly establishing dominance. Just minutes after the whistle, they earned their first corner, though Livingston successfully deflected the threat. Queen's continued to press, with Louis Longridge's shot saved, and Zach Mauchin earning a free kick after being fouled.
It was not long before Queen’s Park showcased their attacking prowess. The opening goal arrived at the 38-minute mark—after several minutes of pressure, Dom Thomas delivered an expertly taken corner. The ball was taken short and worked to Jack Turner, whose well-placed shot hit the post and sadly for the visitors, ricocheted past the Livingston keeper and found the back of the net. By half time, Queen’s held a firm 1-0 lead.
Upon resuming the second half, Livingston sought to claw their way back, earning a penalty shortly after the break. Veteran striker Stevie May stepped up to take the kick, only to see his effort strike the crossbar, dashing hopes of even footing. The visitors' frustrations compounded when they were punished for missing the opportunity, as Jack Turner headed Queen's second goal from another impressive corner by Thomas. This moment proved pivotal as Queen’s could eventually weather the storm with just ten men on the pitch after Mauchin was sent off following two yellow cards.
Despite having one less player, Queen's fell back on solid defense, with goalkeeper Cal Ferrie comfortably handling any attempts from Livingston, and the home side even looked poised to extend their lead late on. Substitutes Rocco Hickey-Fugaccia and Liam McLeish provided fresh legs, keeping the pressure alive against Livingston’s beleaguered defense.
At the final whistle, Queen’s Park celebrated their first victory of the year, solidifying their position and celebrating their 3-point haul early on.
Meanwhile, the excitement continued for Queen’s Park as they faced the news of their midfielder Olivia King transferring to Partick Thistle WFC. Having impressed during her time with the Spiders, where she contributed to their SWPL2 title win last season, the 20-year-old made the move to the Jags, joining another Queen’s alumni, Emma Craig.
“I’m really excited to become a Partick Thistle player. I’m still only 20 so feel this is the perfect for me to come and test myself and improve as a player,” King expressed following the announcement.
The Thistle manager, Brian Graham, echoed her excitement, stating, “Olivia is a player I’ve been a fan of for a long time. She is still only young so has a lot of scope to improve too which is exciting.” With her eagerness to bring more goals and drive to her game, King’s addition to Partick Thistle signals both her ambition and the club's vision for growth.
This move marks not just the dawn of King’s next chapter but also both clubs reflecting on what the new year might bolster. With Queen’s Park securing their early win and considering their future prospects, and King aiming to shine at Thistle, the stage is set for an exciting season.