As the upcoming season approaches, the anticipation grows for another thrilling battle between Rangers and Celtic as Rangers aim to dethrone Celtic’s dominance in Scottish football. The history of the Scottish game has seen many powerful periods, but Celtic’s remarkable run of 14 out of the last 15 Premiership titles has truly set a new standard.
Adding to Celtic’s impressive streak, Brendan Rodgers has further solidified his legacy by leading the team to another league crown last season, as well as achieving a dramatic League Cup final victory over Rangers on penalties at Hampden in December. Despite these achievements, there has been ongoing debate regarding the perceived gap between Celtic and Rangers, with former player Graeme Souness making his thoughts known on the matter.
Recent discussions on talkSPORT between Simon Jordan, a former Crystal Palace owner, and Celtic legend Martin O’Neill have shed light on the changing dynamics between the two clubs. While Celtic secured the league title by a comfortable 17-point margin last season, Rangers’ performance in matches against Celtic, including two wins and a draw in the final Glasgow derby, have raised questions about the narrowing gap between the two rivals.
Jordan believes that under the leadership of new Rangers boss Russell Martin, the team is on the right path to challenging Celtic’s supremacy. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a winning mentality against other teams, in addition to continuing to compete strongly against Celtic. By focusing on consistent performances and mental strength, Rangers could be poised to bridge the gap and achieve success in the upcoming season.
Looking back at previous seasons, the significance of winning the Glasgow derby early in the season cannot be underestimated. The last time Rangers secured victory in the opening derby of the season was in 2021, highlighting the importance of setting the tone early on in the campaign. While recent wins for Rangers have been notable, there is a need for consistency and strong performances throughout the season, particularly in crucial matches against Celtic and in cup finals.
In conclusion, the upcoming season promises excitement and competition as Rangers strive to challenge Celtic’s dominance in Scottish football. With potential shifts in the power dynamic between the two clubs and a focus on maintaining consistency and mental strength, Rangers could be on the cusp of a breakthrough season. As the rivalry between Rangers and Celtic intensifies, fans can expect a thrilling battle on the pitch and the potential for a new chapter in Scottish football history to unfold.
