For anyone outside of Scotland, the SPL’s attraction died in the summer of 2012. The liquidation and subsequent three-tier relegation of Rangers put a temporary end to the Old Firm rivalry, turning a fierce two-horse race into the blandest of one horse canters. The hatred between the two Glasgow clubs remains the heartbeat of a city, and the respective sets of supporters still adore any opportunity to mock the other.
But Celtic have truly embarrassed themselves this weekend.
Rangers were just moments away from clinching promotion back to the SPL before Raith Rovers hit a late equaliser to put the title party on hold. Naturally, Celtic fans were quick to start laughing and posting ridiculous posts on social media. But as the old proverb says, people in glass houses.
Dropping two points simply means that Mark Warburton’s men will have to wait until Tuesday’s home clash with Dumbarton. For most Gers fans, winning the title at Ibrox is a far better solution. Even if they was to lose their midweek clash, there’s absolutely no change that they will confirm their return to the top flight this summer. In truth, this weekend’s mocking is a little redundant.
More importantly, though, look at the state of Celtic. Ronny Deila’s men are unquestionably one of the worst Bhoys sides in recent years. OK, so the history books will show that they’ll win another SPL title, which is great. But the fact they’ve genuinely struggled to win the title is laughable. In truth, it wouldn’t be at all surprising if Rangers are crowned champions of Scotland once again before the end of this decade.
The cold hard facts are highlighted by their poor performances in Europe. This is a club that has gone from beating Barcelona to being humiliated by the continent’s minnows. And until Rangers are there to push them forward, it’s hard to see Celtic’s performances in the Champions League improving. Without their fierce rivals, the Bhoys are nothing, and their fans shouldn’t forget it.
But as far as those weekend taunts are concerned, the tragic thing is that Celtic’s season has been far more embarrassing the Gers’ campaign. For a set of supporters that have done great things regarding public votes for Goal of the Month and other matters in recent times, the Bhoys faithful really haven’t thought things through here.
Rangers will almost certainly be celebrating the title come 9:40 Tuesday. I hate to tell you this Celtic, but you should secretly be celebrating too.
