Rangers Hit the Bar!
1 min: Just 55 seconds into the match, Balogun, completely unmarked, heads the ball from a Rangers corner and it slams into the top of the crossbar! He really should have done better; there was a crucial block by Raskin on Scales that opened up that chance. Oof, that’s a significant miss, especially right in front of the traveling Celtic fans.
Peeeeeeeeeep!
And we’re off in the Old Firm clash.
Team News!
Rangers: Kelly; Tavernier, Souttar, Balogun, Jefte; Barron, Diomande, Raskin; Cerny, Dessers, Bajrami.
Subs: Butland, Cortes, Nsiala, Kasanwirjo, Igamane, Hagi, McCausland, Rice, Danilo.
Celtic: Sinisalo; Ralston, Carter-Vickers, Scales, Taylor; Engels, McGregor, Hatate; Forrest, Idah, Maeda.
Subs: Bain, Trusty, Yang, McCowan, Schlupp, Nawrocki, Kenny, Bernardo, McArdle.
Preamble
Let’s not sugarcoat anything. Celtic is already confirmed as the Scottish champions for the 55th time, with Rangers set to finish in second place. So, in terms of league standings, there’s not much at stake in this Old Firm Derby. Yet, everyone knows this match carries more weight than that. It’s one of the most significant rivalries in football, and it rarely disappoints.
Celtic has been on a relentless forward march, claiming 21 of the last 26 domestic trophies in Scotland and still chasing a treble. Conversely, Rangers are in a bit of disarray. Barry Ferguson’s position as interim manager is only secure until the season ends, and there are multiple uncertainties regarding their finances, management, and overall direction due to a potential takeover looming over the club.
New investors from America, Andrew Cavenagh and the 49ers Enterprises Global Football Group, recently visited the training ground along with Rangers’ incoming sporting director Kevin Thelwell. Ferguson has expressed his support for the takeover, whatever that means for his future role.
“The club has been wanting outside investment,” he shared. “It seems to be moving along smoothly. It’s the beginning of a new era for the club, which it definitely needs. Like everyone else, I’m eager for the day it’s finalized—hoping for a brighter future for Rangers.”
“There’s a lot that needs changing to restore this club’s success. If it turns out I’m not here, I’m excited about the potential new ownership and Kevin coming in. I feel comfortable about the situation. The past few months have been a whirlwind—lots of ups and downs—but it’s given me a taste for it all. Naturally, I would consider the managerial role if offered. If it doesn’t happen, I won’t throw a tantrum. I’ll revert to my ambassadorial duties and keep supporting the team.”
Rangers managed to win their last two derbies, including an away success at Parkhead with Ferguson earlier in March. While this season may end here, many hope it marks the start of a new chapter.
Kick-off: BST at 12pm.
