Celtic are on the brink of sealing a 55th Scottish league title after Rangers were held to a 2-2 draw by Aberdeen at Pittodrie today, all but ending the Ibrox side’s hopes of a late charge for the Premiership crown.
With just five games remaining in the season, Rangers now find themselves a daunting 15 points behind their fierce rivals, with a goal difference that is 42 worse. While the title has not been mathematically secured, only a collapse of historic proportions would stop Celtic from lifting the trophy now.
The Hoops had already done their part this weekend with a commanding 5-1 victory over Kilmarnock at Celtic Park on Saturday. Brendan Rodgers’ side looked every inch the champions-in-waiting as they tore through the visitors, extending both their lead at the top of the table and their already massive goal difference advantage.
Rangers, meanwhile, knew they needed a flawless finish to the season – and for Celtic to slip up in unprecedented and frankly improbable fashion – if they were to keep their slim title hopes alive.
But despite recovering from going two goals down in Aberdeen, they couldn’t battle back for a much needed win as a late equaliser from Hagi ensured Barry Ferguson’s side left Pittodrie with just a single point, effectively ending the title race.
It’s a result that will be celebrated across the green half of Glasgow. Celtic, who have been relentlessly consistent throughout the campaign, are now poised to officially claim the Premiership title for a 55th time and take another step towards a potential domestic treble.
With the league run-in now a formality, all eyes will be on when – not if – Celtic officially clinch the championship. For the Parkhead faithful, that moment can’t come soon enough.
Callum McFadden 