Rangers Secure Victory Over St Mirren as They Eye Celtic Clash

Rangers Secure Victory Over St Mirren as They Eye Celtic Clash

Rangers Secure Victory Over St Mirren as They Eye Celtic Clash

Rangers achieved their first victory against St Mirren in over a year, finishing 2025 just six points behind Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts and three points adrift of Celtic ahead of Saturday's second Old Firm match of the season.

Goals from Thelo Aasgaard, who scored for the second consecutive game, and Emmanuel Fernandez quieted a St Mirren team that sought consecutive wins at Ibrox for the first time in their history.

St Mirren managed to pull one back in the final ten minutes when Mikael Mandron headed in following a strong save by home goalkeeper Jack Butland from Miguel Freckleton's shot.

The Paisley side lamented a missed penalty earlier in the match when captain Marcus Fraser's weak attempt was easily saved by Butland after VAR confirmed a handball.

They also squandered a golden opportunity to equalize shortly after the break when Rangers defender John Souttar made a mistake, but Butland again denied Mandron, who looked poised to score.

Aasgaard's impressive header from Jayden Meghoma's cross gave Rangers a deserved lead at halftime, shortly before Fernandez found himself unmarked to guide the ball past Shamal George.

Butland had to be alert early on, tipping a sharply angled volley from Mikey Moore onto the crossbar and deflecting a shot from Djeidi Gassama past the post.

Rangers could have enjoyed an even more comfortable evening had Nico Raskin not missed a prime opportunity early in the game, although Butland had already made a crucial save from Jayden Richardson.

This victory provides momentum for Danny Rohl's team as they head to Celtic Park this weekend, where a win would see them level on points with the defending champions.

Meanwhile, this defeat marks St Mirren's first loss in six matches, but it is unlikely to overshadow their successful 2025, which included a League Cup triumph.

Analysis: Rangers Impress While St Mirren Rue Missed Chances

Rangers started the match with energy and determination, showcasing their attacking prowess. Striker Youssef Chermiti, often criticized, was effective as a focal point, delivering one of his best performances in a Rangers jersey.

In midfield, Raskin and Mohamed Diomande controlled the game with ease, while Butland proved to be a dependable last line of defense, making crucial saves, including the penalty stop.

Despite creating several chances, Rangers could have scored more goals but were unable to relax due to defensive vulnerabilities that have plagued them this season. Fortunately for the hosts, St Mirren could not capitalize on these weaknesses.

St Mirren remained competitive throughout the match, generating chances but lacking the finishing quality when it counted. The late goal offered them a glimmer of hope, yet they will reflect on missed opportunities, particularly Fraser's penalty miss. Missing penalties at Ibrox makes it difficult to secure a win.

Nevertheless, given their silverware at the end of the year, St Mirren will not be too harshly judged for concluding 2025 with a defeat.

What's Next for These Teams?

Rangers will cross the Clyde on Saturday at 12:00 GMT to face city rivals Celtic in their first Premiership match of 2026.

St Mirren will also be on the road, traveling to in-form Motherwell for their first league fixture of the New Year on Saturday at 15:00.

Topics

Related news