adminRohl issues warning as Ibrox set to host 7,500 Celtic fans
Rangers manager Danny Rohl believes his team can silence thousands of travelling Celtic fans if they replicate their first-half performance from last weekend’s clash.
Approximately 7,500 Celtic supporters are expected at Ibrox on Sunday to watch the Scottish Cup showdown between the city rivals.
Last week, Rangers had taken control with a commanding two-goal lead, thanks to a brace from Youssef Chermiti, putting them in a strong position. However, Martin O’Neill’s side mounted a second-half comeback, with Kieran Tierney and Reo Hatate scoring to secure a 2-2 draw.
This Sunday’s meeting at Ibrox will see the largest away support since 2018, with a place in the Scottish Cup semi-finals at stake. While Rohl acknowledges the influence of the Celtic fans, he insists that replicating the dominant first-half display from last week could keep them subdued.
“Of course it will have an impact,” Rohl said.
“If we play 50 minutes like we did last week, the 7,500 fans will be quiet. That’s the part of the game you really feel. We can influence the game and make an impact on the pitch.”
He added:
“The atmosphere was incredible for those 50 minutes. We pushed our players forward continuously. When it went to 2-1, you could feel the tension in the stadium. Maybe there are moments when the opponent comes back, but that first half was truly outstanding.
Being on the touchline for a game like that was amazing. We’ve discussed what worked well and what we need to improve. We go into this match with belief and trust.
Honestly, I can’t remember the last time Rangers dominated Celtic for 50 minutes like that.”
Rangers, however, have been guilty of late concessions, including an 89th-minute equaliser against Celtic and a similar lapse against Motherwell last month.
They also had to fight back from a two-goal deficit against Livingston. Rohl admitted that defensive issues remain a concern.
“As a manager, it’s my job to address these problems,” he said.
“We’ve conceded too much recently. Since I’ve been here, it’s 16 goals in the league, with eight in the last five games.
Against Livingston, the opponent had just three touches in our box and scored twice. On the weekend, we had an overload situation in our box, eight against four, but we weren’t in the right positions. That’s something we’re working to improve.
At the same time, we’ve scored 14 goals in five games, nearly three per match, which should be enough to win.”
Rohl confirmed he has a full squad available for Sunday, with Mikey Moore having only minor issues and Connor Barron returning to contention.
Rangers face Celtic at Ibrox on Sunday at 12pm in a clash that promises to be another thrilling chapter in the Old Firm rivalry.
admin
