Livingston 3-1 Falkirk: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Ladbrokes’ post-match review of Livingston 3-1 Falkirk in the Premiership on Saturday, 09 August 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Livingston secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Falkirk at home, extending their strong run of form in the Premiership. The match saw Livingston score early through Scott Pittman and Lewis Smith, with the latter's goal coming right before halftime, setting a solid foundation for the win. Despite Falkirk's efforts to mount a comeback, including a goal from Ross MacIver in the 74th minute, Livingston sealed the victory late in the game with a goal from Jeremy Loteteka Bokila. This result was not entirely surprising given Livingston's recent performances, which included a draw against Kilmarnock and a win against Ross County, showcasing their resilience and attacking prowess.

Falkirk, on the other hand, struggled to capitalise on their possession and failed to convert their opportunities into a favourable result. The team's recent form, which included draws against Dundee United and Alloa Athletic, did not provide the momentum needed to challenge Livingston effectively. The loss at Livingston marks another setback for Falkirk, who will need to regroup and address their defensive vulnerabilities. Livingston's ability to score three goals, despite having less possession, highlights their efficiency in front of goal and their capacity to exploit Falkirk's defensive lapses.

The statistics from the match between Livingston and Falkirk reveal a game where possession did not translate into victory for the team with the ball. Falkirk enjoyed 59% possession compared to Livingston's 41%, yet it was Livingston who emerged victorious with a 3-1 scoreline. Livingston's efficiency in front of goal is evident from their three assists and one injury time goal, showcasing their clinical nature in crucial moments. The higher number of yellow cards for Livingston (4) compared to Falkirk (2) suggests a more aggressive approach, which may have contributed to their success in breaking down Falkirk's defense.

Additionally, Livingston's successful dribbles percentage of 71% compared to Falkirk's 50% indicates a higher level of individual skill and confidence on the ball. Despite Falkirk's slight edge in corners (5 to Livingston's 4), they were unable to convert these set-piece opportunities into goals. The statistics highlight Livingston's ability to make the most of their chances and their disciplined approach to the game, which ultimately led to their victory.

The match's early stages set the tone for Livingston's dominance, with Scott Pittman scoring in the 18th minute to give them the lead. This goal was followed by a crucial moment just before halftime when Lewis Smith found the net in the 45+3rd minute, doubling Livingston's lead and putting them in a strong position going into the second half. These early goals were pivotal in shaping the game's outcome, as they forced Falkirk to chase the game, which ultimately played into Livingston's hands.

In the second half, Falkirk managed to pull one back through Ross MacIver in the 74th minute, briefly reigniting their hopes of a comeback. However, Livingston responded decisively with a late goal from Jeremy Loteteka Bokila in the 88th minute, securing the victory. The missed penalty by Robbie Muirhead in the 55th minute was a significant moment, as it could have extended Livingston's lead further, but their ability to score late in the game ensured they maintained control and clinched the three points.

Livingston lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, with Jérôme Prior in goal and a backline consisting of Samson Lawal, Ryan McGowan, Danny Wilson, and Adam Montgomery. The midfield trio of Scott Pittman, Macaulay Tait, and Graham Carey provided a solid foundation, while the attacking line of Lewis Smith, Robbie Muirhead, and Andy Winter posed a constant threat to Falkirk's defense. The early substitution of Shane Blaney in the 14th minute and the subsequent changes, including Mohamad Sylla and Christian Alexis Montaño Castillo, showcased manager David Martindale's tactical flexibility and willingness to adapt during the game.

The impact of the substitutions was evident, with Jeremy Loteteka Bokila and Tete Yengi coming on in the 67th minute and Bokila scoring the crucial third goal late in the game. Lewis Smith's goal before halftime and Scott Pittman's early strike were standout moments, highlighting their importance to the team's success. The lineup and subsequent changes allowed Livingston to maintain their momentum and secure a well-deserved victory.

Falkirk deployed a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Scott Bain in goal and a defense comprising Keelan Adams, Lewis Neilson, Liam Henderson, and Leon McCann. The midfield was anchored by Brad Spencer and Dylan Tait, with Calvin Miller, Aidan Nesbitt, and Ethan Ross supporting the lone striker, Ross MacIver. Despite their solid lineup, Falkirk struggled to convert their possession into goals, with MacIver's 74th-minute strike being their only response to Livingston's early dominance.

The substitutions made by Falkirk, including Alfredo Agyeman, Brian Graham, Sean Mackie, Henry Cartwright, and Scott Arfield, aimed to inject fresh energy and change the game's dynamics. However, these changes were not enough to overcome Livingston's lead. Ross MacIver's goal was a notable moment, but the team's inability to capitalise on their possession and set-piece opportunities ultimately led to their defeat. Falkirk will need to reassess their strategy and execution to improve their performance in future matches.

Lewis Smith is Ladbrokes’ Man of the Match for his pivotal contribution to Livingston's victory over Falkirk. Scoring a crucial goal just before halftime, Smith's strike in the 45+3rd minute doubled Livingston's lead and significantly impacted the game's outcome. His ability to find the back of the net at such a critical moment showcased his composure and clinical finishing, making him a standout performer in the match.

Recent Premiership matches:

• (W) 3-1 vs Falkirk (09 Aug 2025, Premiership)

• (D) 2-2 vs Kilmarnock (03 Aug 2025, Premiership)

Recent Premiership matches:

• (L) 1-3 vs Livingston (09 Aug 2025, Premiership)

• (D) 2-2 vs Dundee United (03 Aug 2025, Premiership)

Livingston sit atop the league with 4 points after a 2-2 draw against Kilmarnock and a 3-1 win over Falkirk. They face Celtic, in 4th place with 3 points, on August 23, 2025, with the time TBD due to postponement. Their clinical finishing (5 goals in 2 matches) boosts confidence, and they’ll aim to maintain their attacking momentum against a strong Celtic side to hold their lead.

Falkirk are in 11th place with 1 point, earned from a 2-2 draw against Dundee United but undone by a 3-1 loss to Livingston. They face Hibernian, in 3rd place with 3 points, on August 23, 2025, at 17:45. The defeat highlights the need to tighten their defence (5 goals conceded) and improve finishing to secure their first win and climb the league standings.

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.