Ibrox plays host as Glasgow Rangers welcome Celtic in the first Old Firm of the season tomorrow.
Rangers might have reached the semi-final of the League Cup in midweek, but their victory over Partick Thistle papered over the cracks somewhat.
Pedro Caixinha’s side looked on course for a 1-0 win at Firhill in regulation thanks to Carlos Pena’s brilliant second-half header, but a stoppage-time equaliser from Kris Doolan forced extra time.
Rangers did, to their credit, make sure of the victory from there via goals from Daniel Candeias and Eduardo Herrera, but it could and should have been a lot more comfortable than it was and Gers fans should be concerned heading into tomorrow’s Old Firm with Celtic at Ibrox.
They absolutely dominated the second half against Partick and yet only had one goal for their domination, with in-form Alfredo Morelos and Candeias spurning good chances – especially the latter, who missed an open goal which would’ve killed the game off.
In short, Rangers were nowhere near ruthless enough and you wonder how costly it would be against Celtic if the same lack of killer instinct in front of goal is evident.
They got a second chance against Partick, but they won’t against the Hoops by virtue of the fact that Brendan Rodgers boasts some of the most clinical attackers in Scotland.
Speaking in post-match interviews after pre-season results, the Portuguese manager often berated his side’s wastefulness in front of goal and it would appear as if his troops have yet to heed their manager’s advice.
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