FOOTY FOCUS SPECIAL

While attention often gravitates toward the loudest voices and biggest personalities, Isaa Ali has gone about his work for Third Lanark in a very different way — consistently, efficiently, and without fuss.

It’s a return that confirms what Third Lanark have relied on week after week this season: when chances arrive, Ali is usually in the right area to take one of them.

The goal itself was simple but effective — a near-post finish after a sharp movement that bought him half a yard. The assist mattered just as much. With an angle to shoot, Ali instead squared the ball across the box for a teammate, turning pressure into a clear opportunity. It was a small decision, but one that reflected the wider picture of his game.

Ali’s numbers this season are built on that kind of decision-making. He doesn’t dominate matches by volume, nor does he need a run of chances to stay involved. His contribution comes from timing, positioning, and doing the basics well when it counts.

That reliability has been important for Third Lanark. In a division where form can swing quickly, having a forward whose name appears on the scoresheet with regularity provides a platform for results and confidence across the side.

As the season moves into its closing stretch, Ali’s role remains straightforward. No change in approach is needed — just more of the same work in the same areas. If Third Lanark are to keep their momentum, consistency in front of goal will continue to matter.

Ali doesn’t make much noise about his performances. He doesn’t need to. The output speaks clearly enough on its own.