Peter Grant has raised concerns about the challenging fixture scenario that Rangers are set to face this weekend, with Celtic having the advantage of playing their match before them. As the title race intensifies, every game becomes increasingly vital for the Gers as they strive to close the gap on their Old Firm rivals. With Celtic potentially on the brink of securing two consecutive titles with just two more wins against Hearts and Rangers, the pressure is mounting on Steven Gerrard’s team to deliver. Grant, a former Parkhead midfielder and assistant manager, believes that the scheduling of matches could give Celtic a significant psychological edge as Rangers battle to wrestle the title back to Govan.
Grant, drawing upon his own experiences, highlighted the challenges that come with playing after your main title rivals. He emphasized the impact that knowing the result of a competitor’s match can have on a team’s mindset, especially towards the latter stages of a game. The pressure to secure a victory and the heightened expectations from fans can create a sense of urgency and potentially disrupt the team’s usual approach to the game.
Moreover, Grant pointed out the dynamics of experience within the Celtic squad, suggesting that while having seasoned players can be an asset, it may also introduce an element of caution and nervousness in high-pressure situations. The contrast between the fearless approach of younger players and the pressure felt by more experienced ones adds another layer of complexity to the title race.
Looking ahead to the weekend fixtures, Grant stressed the significance of Celtic’s performance on Saturday in shaping the narrative and increasing the pressure on Rangers for their Sunday clash. As the title race reaches its climax, every decision, every pass, and every goal takes on added importance, making this weekend a pivotal moment in the battle for supremacy in Scottish football.