Glasgow Rangers host Motherwell in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup later this month.
Former Rangers and Motherwell boss Stuart McCall believes that the two sides will play out a close game when they meet in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup, but backed Mark Warburton’s men to book their place in the last 16, Sky Sports New HQ reports (via Sky Sports).
The two Scottish Premiership outfits meet in the competition in their first game back following the winter break, but both would be forgiven for looking somewhat past the fixture as they both look to concentrate on what they need to do in the top flight.
Rangers manager Mark Warburton
The Gers are ahead in the race for second, but could fall to third if Aberdeen win their game in hand, while Well are not that far ahead of the relegation places in the division.
But with the competition representing both teams’ best chance of silverware this season, McCall is expecting a tight contest and suggested that the opening goal will go a long way to deciding the tie.
“Recently Rangers have had some good results at home, put in a good performance against Celtic the other week – Celtic were too strong in the end – but I think it is all about the first goal,” he told Sky Sports News HQ (via Sky Sports).
Stuart McCall
“If Motherwell could nick the first goal that would add the pressure and the tension from the fans and the players.
“But I think Rangers have got enough ability and know-how, and they have got their own experience, and I would expect Rangers to edge the game but I’m sure it’ll be a close encounter.”
As well as due to their respective league positions and the fact that the game is being played at Ibrox, their most recent meetings also suggest that Rangers will be favourites.
The Light Blues have won both of their previous meetings this term, and Motherwell go into the contest having won just one of their previous seven games before the winter break.
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