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McInnes delivers togetherness & intensity in Old Firm gobsmacker
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McInnes delivers togetherness & intensity in Old Firm gobsmacker

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SokaLive

13 Sep 2026, 16:08

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Derek McInnes orchestrated a tactical masterclass at Ibrox as Rangers delivered a statement 3-0 victory over fierce rivals Celtic in the Scottish Premiership. The performance was defined by relentless pressing, defensive discipline, and an unmistakable sense of collective unity that completely overwhelmed the reigning champions. Right from the opening whistle, the home side imposed their physical dominance across every sector of the pitch, denying Celtic any time to settle into their usual passing rhythm. This emphatic win cuts the gap at the summit of the league table and dramatically shifts the psychological momentum in the fierce title race, proving that Rangers possess the steel required to challenge for domestic supremacy under high-stakes pressure.

The tactical blueprint relied heavily on suffocating Celtic's midfield engine room, where captain Callum McGregor was starved of possession by relentless markers. Rangers capitalized on this disruption by exploiting defensive vulnerabilities through rapid transitions and pinpoint set-piece deliveries. Historically, Old Firm fixtures at Ibrox are decided by fine margins and moments of individual brilliance, but this encounter belonged entirely to the tactical organization instilled by the coaching staff. With this crucial three-point haul, Rangers extended their impressive home unbeaten run in domestic competitions and exposed persistent defensive frailties that have occasionally plagued Celtic during demanding European and domestic campaigns this season.

Looking ahead, this resounding Old Firm victory injects fresh excitement into the Scottish Premiership title race as the grueling winter fixture schedule approaches its peak. Rangers must now channel this intensity and togetherness into their upcoming matches against stubborn lower-table opposition, where consistency has occasionally faltered in previous seasons. Meanwhile, Celtic face a stern test of character as manager Brendan Rodgers rallies his squad ahead of a packed fixture list that includes crucial UEFA Champions League commitments. The psychological fallout from this Ibrox defeat will undoubtedly test the resilience of the Glasgow east-end side as they attempt to reclaim their domestic dominance in the coming weeks.