*** Pregame Analysis - Rangers versus Celtic ***

[nvager]

Rangers versus Celtic at Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow, on Sunday April 24th., 2011. Kick-off 12:30 PM.

Rangers sit at the top of the table with 80 points from 33 games and have a goal difference of +44 goals. Celtic lag 1 point behind, having played 32 games, and have a goal difference of +52 goals.

This is another must win game. Like all 5 games left to play we must take the 3 points on offer to retain the title. Nothing else will do. The midweek results have shown this. Both OF teams are liable to win all their remaining games against other SPL opposition. We must win this game to put the title firmly in our hands.

Our form up until the Dundee United game has been poor. We have scraped up a good number of wins by the odd goal against teams from the bottom of the SPL. Against DU we were awarded 3 penalties and DU had 3 men sent off. It was a very unusual game. On the basis of that form we should be concerned about playing a Celtic team that has been going strong. We have players missing and a small squad. Our choices are a little limited. The team is likely to be McGregor, Whittaker, Bougherra, Weir, Papac, Edu, Davis, Hutton, Lafferty, Naismith and Jelavic.

Diouf may start but I hope not. Ness is a big doubt as is McCulloch.

This team gives us our best chance, but we must put pressure on Celtic. We must put them on the back foot. No sitting off them. Pressure must be applied diligently. I see this match as a tinder-keg. We must be disciplined in our approach. Players like Whittaker, Bougherra, Naismith, Diouf, etc. must be careful not to react badly to challenges or to make smart remarks to the referee. Jelavic must be careful too regarding so called "diving".

If we stay disciplined and press the Celtic midfield/defense, we will win this game. It will not be easy, but we can win this game. Please try shots from outside/edge of the penalty box. No need to walk it into the net Rangers.

It should be a joyous occasion so let's relax and have some fun. Let's win by 3 or 4 goals! Unlikely I know but lets just do it.

Who will win? It is a toss-up. It depends on so many factors. Most of all the referee. He will be so important on Sunday. If he is fair and even handed that will help everyone. It should be a tremendous game. Millions will be watching. The pressure on both teams tremendous. N. Lennon's teams have had a habit of losing the big games - I hope it will continue. Rangers 1-0 Celtic.

Whatever happens let's hope there will be no crowd trouble. That everything goes well for the fans - Rangers fans in particular. Let the OF fans do Glasgow proud.

Let's give the world a taste of great football and hospitality. That is what we all want and of course a Rangers win.