Rangers won't be beaten by leaders Celtic
The fourth Old Firm derby of the campaign - and third in the SPL - is the main encounter north of the border this week, though there are big matches for both capital clubs too. Here's our verdict on the three standout fixtures...
Hearts v Dundee United (Saturday, 3pm)
Losses away to Celtic and Rangers have derailed Hearts' title bid, with their price blasted out to [65.0] as a result, so they need to win on Saturday to capitalise of Sunday's collision between the top two. Dundee United have only been beaten twice on the road but Hearts shouldn't be intimidated having won six of their last seven at Tynecastle without conceding, the Old Firm being seen off on that run, so back the hosts at [1.84].
Celtic v Rangers (Sunday, 12.30pm, Sky Sports 4)
The Old Firm duo's 2-2 draw at Ibrox in the Scottish Cup a fortnight ago made it three derbies this season without a home success and though Celtic have won their last five SPL games, we expect that record to continue on Sunday as Rangers have collected 28 points from a possible 33 on their travels. Celtic can be laid at [2.2] and that's a more secure option than backing the visitors at [3.8], while over 2.5 goals also appeals at [2.12] as three of the last four clashes have fulfilled this criteria.
St Mirren v Hibernian (Sunday, 2.45pm, Sky Sports 4)
These are the two most vulnerable teams if bottom club Hamilton eventually go on a run and Hibs look the more likely of the pair to pull away from the relegation picture. They've bounced back from ten games without a win with successive victories, the turning point coming against St Mirren, who are winless in seven. Also counting against the Buddies is the fact they haven't triumphed in front of their own fans since October, suggesting that Hibs are overpriced at [2.66].
Like the look of those suggestions? A treble on both Edinburgh clubs winning and Celtic dropping points returns £50.80 for a £10 stake using the Betfair Coupon...
Published: 18 Feb 2011
Leave a comment