Rangers secured a dominant 3-0 Premier Sports Cup quarter-final victory over Celtic at Ibrox after deploying a relentless man-for-man press that overwhelmed Martin O’Neill’s side.
Manager Derek McInnes shifted James Penrice into midfield to stifle the visitors, allowing captain Dan Neil to dictate the tie. Neil scored twice with clinical finishes from the edge of the box, while Kevin Kelsy added a back-post strike to eliminate the reigning Scottish Cup champions.
O’Neill Selection Gamble Fails
O’Neill opted to start Sam Johnstone in goal and retained Sebaastian Tounekti on the left flank, leaving his setup completely disjointed against the high press. Johnstone produced a nervous display featuring several misplaced clearances, while Tounekti was withdrawn at half-time as Celtic failed to establish any control.
McInnes had restructured his forward line prior to kick-off, but his tactical adjustments completely neutralised the visitors. The squad fully committed to the pressing structure, closing down passing lanes efficiently.
The comprehensive defeat raised refereeing questions following an unpenalised challenge by Olwethu Makhanya on Kasper Hogh. Former referee Keith Hackett told Ibrox News in an exclusive interview: “Celtic have every right to be disappointed that a penalty kick was not awarded.”
Celtic host Ferencvaros in the Europa League on Thursday before facing Rangers in a Scottish Premiership rematch at Celtic Park on Sunday to conclude a critical double-header.
