Rangers host Celtic in vital Old Firm as Boyd claims loser exits title race
Kris Boyd believes the loser of Sunday’s Old Firm derby between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox will be eliminated from the Scottish Premiership title race as Hearts continue to lead the pack.
The traditional dominance of the Glasgow giants has been challenged this season, with the Jam Tarts currently sitting four points clear at the summit of the table.
Danny Rohl’s side occupy second place, while their city rivals trail a further two points behind, albeit with a game in hand.
High stakes in Glasgow
The encounter at Ibrox on Sunday carries significantly more weight than usual given the emergence of a genuine third force in the division.
Rangers missed an opportunity to close the gap last weekend, requiring a comeback to salvage a draw against Livingston.
Despite that slip-up, former Celtic striker Chris Sutton believes the momentum currently lies with the home side.
“At this moment in time with Celtic, and the way the season has gone, every sensible person would make Rangers favourites for Sunday.”
Chris Sutton, former Celtic striker
Sutton highlighted the contrasting atmospheres surrounding the two clubs as a deciding factor.
The pundit suggests that while there is nervousness at Ibrox following the Livingston result, the environment is far more stable than at Parkhead.
“Rangers are a more harmonious club at this moment in time. There’s a nervousness among the fanbase… but they’re still a team where they’ve got a slip-up in them.”
Boyd predicts title elimination
With Hearts expected to secure three points against Aberdeen on Saturday, the pressure on the Glasgow duo to keep pace is immense.
Former Rangers forward Kris Boyd feels that a defeat for either side would be terminal to their championship aspirations.
“Whoever loses it, for me, is out of it, especially Celtic. I can’t see any way back for Celtic if Rangers are to get the victory.”
Kris Boyd, former Rangers striker
The Hoops have a game in hand to play on Wednesday, but points on the board are crucial as the season enters its latter stages.
Boyd insists that home advantage will play a pivotal role for Rohl’s men in this high-pressure scenario.
“I don’t think Danny Rohl has any problem in getting his team up for an Old Firm game anyway, but at home, I don’t think there’ll be any problem.”
Sunday’s match kicks off at 12:00 GMT.