After the loss to Motherwell, it can now be said that Rangers path to the title is a simpler one – win or bust!
The margin for error has been eradicated, meaning winning is all that matters across the last four games.
Much easier said than done, but it all starts – and could end – at Tynecastle next Sunday.
There really isn’t much point looking any further than the next game, given its importance, and while there’s an argument that three wins and one draw could be enough, it seems to be wishful thinking.
From the outset of the post-split fixtures, there was a consensus that Rangers needed to win the two home games, given the potential to drop points at Tynecastle or Parkhead.
To falter at the first hurdle is a massive blow, but it isn’t fatal. Not yet.
League title there for the taking
Now that the pressure and intensity have been cranked up, the Rangers players must respond, or it will be all over.
It will be final, but the pain will be felt, and it will linger.
The main reason is the Scottish Premiership has been there for the taking, even after everything that led up to the split.
Hearts and Celtic will feel the same, and even more so now, after their positions have been strengthened.
Martin O’Neill’s team got the job done against Falkirk on Saturday, even if the Bairns pushed hard at 2-1.
It doesn’t matter. They won 3-1, and the three points went on the board.
Similarly, Hearts made hard work of overcoming 9-man Hibs on Sunday, but they prevailed.
The winner came. The three points were added to the Gorgie club’s total.
They now lead Rangers by one and four points, respectively.
Hearts are unbeaten at home this season
In the three meetings so far this season, Rangers have two defeats and one win on the record. That stat has to be equalised.
The league leaders will present a formidable challenge, given their momentum, and a fervent atmosphere awaits the visitors at Tynecastle next Monday.
Danny Rohl and his coaching team must identify the solutions to record Hearts sixth loss of the season, and their first at home.
It will be a tough game, made harder with the necessity to win, but that’s where we are.
Win or bust.
Everyone knows what is required, otherwise Rangers path to the title is no more.
