Rangers draw with Dundee United on Sunday afternoon was even more frustrating thanks to how the game panned out.
It was different to the recent away games in which the champions have dropped points because there was no lack of effort or application in throwing the kitchen sink at the hosts in search of all three points. Ultimately, that never materialised due to poor finishing, a bit of bad luck, good goalkeeping from Benji Siegrist and some ridiculous decisions from referee, Bobby Madden.
Regardless, Rangers didn’t win when a victory was required.
The most alarming issue is that Gio van Bronckhorst’s team have now taken just 12 points from 21 available since the season re-start in January. In contrast, Celtic have maxed out on 21 points. Seemingly, they weren’t at their best today with Dundee getting in front then equalising at 2-2 but the challengers found a way to win, again.
It is very unlikely that they will go the full season without dropping points but Rangers have to be in a position to capitalise. There is no margin for error left, none at all.
Six Premiership games will take place between now and the split:
Motherwell – H
St Johnstone – A
Aberdeen – H
Dundee – A
Celtic – H
St Mirren – A
21 points is essential because it is only by building such form that will create a basis to go on and retain the title.
Yes, the gap is only three points at present but if and when Celtic’s slip comes, Rangers have to make it count which of course includes the third Old Firm game of the season at Ibrox on April 2nd.
It is as simple as that.
From last performance it would seem that Bobby Haddon is in critic’s pocket.
Should have been Bobby maddon.