Rangers ended a six-year drought in the Old Firm as they defeated Celtic 1-0 at Ibrox Stadium on Saturday.
Ryan Jack’s goal on the half-hour mark was the difference as Rangers pulled level with Celtic atop the Scottish Premiership entering the winter break.
Canadian international Scott Arfield played 90 minutes until he was replaced by Jon Flanagan deep in second-half stoppage time. Arfield was integral to the victory, registering a number of key interceptions and tackles to nullify Celtic’s rhythm in midfield. However, Arfield also missed two quality chances in the second half that could’ve increased Rangers’ advantage.
The lone goal was enough in the end as Liverpool loanee Ryan Kent made a terrific run down the left flank before picking out Jack in the penalty area. His subsequent shot deflected off Celtic captain Scott Brown and past a helpless Craig Gordon.
Rangers hadn’t beaten Celtic in 90 minutes since March 2012, when they edged the Hoops 3-2 at Ibrox. A few weeks later, the club went into administration and was relegated to Scottish League Two, the fourth tier in Scotland, before gaining promotion through the divisions and back into the top flight for the 2016-17 season.
Celtic still owns a game in hand over Rangers, so the champions still control their fate at the top of the table, but for now, the title race remains incredibly tight heading into 2019.
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