5 Clubs to Look Out For in the SPFL This Season

The talk is always Celtic, Rangers, Hearts, Aberdeen. But across the pyramid, five clubs are flying under the radar and shaping stories of their own — Spartans, Edinburgh City, Greenock Morton, Dumbarton, and Falkirk.

The Spartans – Fortress in the Making

North Edinburgh’s The Spartans F.C are proving they belong. With Paddy Martin between the sticks, one of the league’s best keepers, they’ve built a defence that can keep them competitive all season. Add the firepower of Mark Stowe up front, and Spartans have a balance few in League Two can match.

Edinburgh City – Fighting the Deduction

Hit with a 15-point penalty, City were written off before a ball was kicked. But Michael McIndoe’s side are refusing to fold. With resilience and flashes of quality, they’ve got eyes on the play-offs. City’s hunger makes them one of the most dangerous “outsiders” in the country.

Greenock Morton – Dark Horse of the Championship

Last season Morton punched above their weight, grinding out results against bigger budgets. In 25/26, they look ready to go further. Under Dougie Imrie, Morton’s identity is clear: pressure, hard-tackling, and impossible to break down. At the other end, Robbie Crawford has been their core, linking play together and driving them forward. Morton could be genuine promotion contenders.

Dumbarton – Built on Foundations

The Sons rebuild is paying off. A fresh squad, a calmer approach, and belief spreading through the ranks. Shay Kelly in goal has been a standout, pulling off big saves and keeping Dumbarton steady. If this foundation holds, expect them to upset bigger names.

Falkirk – Survival Against the Odds

Top-flight football always looked like a stretch, but John McGlynn’s Falkirk are refusing to bend or fold. They’ll face a season of battles, but their passion and commitment might shock the league. A hard campaign awaits — but a “shock stay” isn’t out of the question.

Verdict

From Martin and Stowe at Spartans to Kelly at Dumbarton and Crawford steering Morton, these clubs have stars to carry them. McIndoe and McGlynn both coach outside the box, but their strength lies in grit and vision.