Where to Watch and Listen to Arbroath v East Fife in the Scottish Challenge Cup: STV Radio Coverage with Micky Gavin on January 13, 2026

As football fans across Scotland gear up for an exciting evening of cup action, the Scottish Challenge Cup clash between Arbroath and East Fife promises thrills on January 13, 2026, at 19:45 UK time. While major broadcasters like BBC, ITV, Sky Sports, and TNT Sports often dominate coverage of top-tier fixtures, this mid-tier encounter finds its home on STV Radio, the go-to station for dedicated Scottish football enthusiasts. Tuning into STV Radio means you can catch every pivotal moment, courtesy of reporter Micky Gavin, who brings his wealth of experience to the airwaves. Whether you're in the stands at Gayfield Park or listening from home, STV Radio ensures no fan misses out on the drama of this knockout battle.

The Scottish Challenge Cup, officially known as the SPFL Trust Trophy, has long been a proving ground for lower-league sides to make headlines against higher opposition. Arbroath, the Lichties, have a proud history in this competition, having reached the final in 2003 and boasting a fierce home record at their coastal venue. East Fife, the Fifers, are no strangers to cup upsets, with their gritty style often causing problems for favourites. This 2026 tie, set against the winter chill, could see goals galore or a tense stalemate leading to spot-kicks. For listeners, STV Radio's coverage starts pre-match, building anticipation with analysis and team news before Micky Gavin delivers live updates from the touchline.

STV Radio has carved out a niche as Scotland's premier destination for football banter and insight, particularly through its flagship programme, The STV Radio Football Show. Hosted by the dynamic duo of Ewen Cameron and Ronnie Charters, the show airs every Monday, dissecting the weekend's action with unfiltered opinions on everything from Old Firm derbies to lower-league heroics[1][2][3]. Ewen Cameron, a veteran broadcaster with decades in Scottish media, began his career in local radio before rising to prominence covering Rangers and Scotland internationals. His sharp wit and deep knowledge make him a fan favourite, often drawing on his time reporting from Ibrox during the club's glory years. Ronnie Charters complements him perfectly; a former player who graced the pitches of the Scottish leagues, Charters transitioned seamlessly into punditry. His playing days with clubs like East Stirlingshire and his post-career stint in coaching give him an insider's edge, allowing him to break down tactics with authenticity. Together, they cover the full spectrum of Scottish football, from Premiership high-flyers to Challenge Cup underdogs like Arbroath and East Fife[4][5].

For this specific match, Micky Gavin steps into the spotlight as the on-site reporter. Gavin is a respected figure in Scottish sports journalism, with a career spanning over 20 years primarily with STV and its radio arm. Starting as a freelance contributor in the early 2000s, he honed his craft covering Dundee United and local Tayside derbies before becoming a regular voice for cup competitions. Known for his impartiality and ability to capture the atmosphere—whether it's the roar of 50,000 at Hampden or the intimate buzz at Gayfield—Gavin's reports are a staple for fans who crave real-time immersion. His background in print journalism adds depth, often weaving historical context into live updates, such as Arbroath's famous 36-0 thrashing of Bon Accord in 1885 or East Fife's 1938 Scottish Cup win. On January 13, expect Gavin to be pitchside, microphone in hand, relaying every tackle, chance, and goal as it happens.

To access the coverage, head straight to the STV Player, where STV Radio streams freely online. The platform hosts The STV Radio Football Show episodes, trailers, and live football content, making it ideal for modern listeners[1][2][4]. Simply visit STV Player's Football Show page to stream past episodes and tune in live at 19:45. For those preferring traditional radio, STV Radio broadcasts across Scotland on FM and DAB digital platforms, ensuring nationwide reach. Apps like Play Podcast also carry the show, offering on-demand replays for post-match analysis[3]. No subscription is needed—it's all free, underscoring STV's commitment to accessible Scottish sports coverage.

Arbroath FC, founded in 1878, are renowned for their resilience, particularly under manager Dick Campbell in recent years, who steered them to League One glory. Gayfield Park's unique position—Europe's only seafront football stadium—adds a magical element, with waves crashing nearby during stormy matches. East Fife, established in 1920, play at Bayview Park and have a loyal following in Fife, punching above their weight in cups thanks to talents like former captain Allan Trouten. Recent form suggests a tight contest: Arbroath's home strength versus East Fife's counter-attacking prowess. Historical head-to-heads favour Arbroath slightly, with wins in recent league meetings, but cup ties are unpredictable.

The Scottish Challenge Cup itself deserves a spotlight. Launched in 1875 as the Scottish Reserve League Cup before evolving into its current format in 2016 (including Welsh and Northern Irish sides), it offers pathways for youth and League Two teams to glory. Past winners include Livingston (multiple times) and Raith Rovers, with the final at Hampden Park providing a dream stage. For 2026, this early-round fixture could launch a giant-killing run. Fans can delve deeper via the SPFL's official Challenge Cup page, tracking draws, results, and highlights.

Beyond the action, STV Radio's team brings credibility. Ewen Cameron's career highlights include live commentary on Scotland's World Cup qualifiers, where his passion shone during nail-biting ties[5]. Ronnie Charters, meanwhile, has shared dressing-room tales from his playing days, enriching debates on player motivation—perfect for analysing Arbroath's defenders or East Fife's forwards. Micky Gavin's reporting style, blending urgency with nuance, has earned praise; he's covered everything from Champions League qualifiers to Highland League shocks. Their collective experience ensures balanced, engaging coverage that appeals to casual fans and die-hards alike.

Why choose STV Radio over TV? While BBC Scotland and ITV might prioritise Premiership or internationals, STV fills the gap for pyramid football. No visuals, but the audio paints vivid pictures: crowd roars, manager rants, and player interviews. It's immersive, especially for expats streaming abroad. Pair it with club social media for lineups and goals. For Arbroath supporters, local pride is high; East Fife fans travel hoping for an upset.

Looking at the clubs' legacies, Arbroath's 2022 promotion to the Championship marked a golden era, though relegation battles followed. Key player Michael McKenna could be pivotal with his midfield flair. East Fife, stabilised in League Two, rely on Nathan Austin's goals. Injuries and weather—January gales at Gayfield—will factor in. STV Radio will unpack it all.

More on the pundits: Ewen Cameron once worked with BBC Radio Scotland, bringing gravitas from covering Celtic's unbeaten season. Ronnie Charters' coaching badges and media training make his takes authoritative. Micky Gavin's versatility shines; he's reported on Olympics and Commonwealth Games too. Learn about their journeys via STV Sport's main hub.

In summary, for Arbroath v East Fife, fire up STV Radio at 19:45 on January 13, 2026. With Micky Gavin reporting and the station's stellar team in support, it's the ultimate way to experience this Challenge Cup gem. Expect passion, expertise, and maybe a few surprises—Scottish football at its rawest. Tune in, settle back, and let the airwaves transport you to the action.

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