It’s been a horror couple of weeks for Rangers and a brilliant period for Celtic as we get to the sharp end of the Scottish Premiership title race.
The wheels are coming off the Ibrox side and the Bhoys now sit three points clear at the top of the table with just five games remaining for both teams.
Their latest blunder away to Dundee has come just days after a defeat to Ross County in Dingwall. Even pundits like Kris Boyd are now conceding the title to Celtic.
There’s a long way to go before the defending champions can claim victory, of course. Twists and turns lie dangerously ahead of Brendan Rodgers’ side if they don’t remain focused and on form.
Rangers boss Philippe Clement was defiant with post-match press comments on Wednesday night, stating his belief that his side can go on to secure the silverware.
The Philippe Clement bubble bursts
He said [The Scotsman]: “I still believe [we can win the title]. I was maybe the only one in Glasgow who believed that in October, probably the only one of all the town who believed that.
“We are now six months later and if we win all our games then there is a really big possibility for that. I think that is already a big step forward and I believe in these players, this group, because I have seen what they have done this season already. They can do it again.”
The reality is, however, that this is Celtic’s trophy to lose now. Despite all the hype and the proclamations of improvement at Rangers, they’ve hit a disastrous run of form at the most critical time of the season.
Wednesday night was the first time they haven’t won three consecutive Scottish Premiership matches since 2019.
Celtic have a group of players who know how to get the job done when the pressure is really on. In fact, it feels like the Bhoys have been under pressure for most of the season.
It’s easy to understand why many believe they will maintain form and see this out now, regardless of what Rangers do.
Clement may believe, but at this point of the campaign, belief isn’t enough. Results count most – he is finding that out quickly.