TWO days to go and there's a knot in my stomach already.
In fact, it's probably closer to the truth to say Monday's meeting with the side from across the city is one that Michael Beale and his players simply have to win.
And as much as I'd love to predict they'll get the victory they so desperately need, I must admit I'm not feeling 100 per cent confident about their chances.
There's a horrible thought in the back of my mind that by 2pm on January 2 Rangers could be stranded 12 points behind Celtic. And believe me, I'm trying my very best to ignore it.
But there's nothing to be gained here in pretending that Beale and his boys aren't going to find themselves right up against it when they walk out of that tunnel to face a side which is going about its business with all guns blazing right now.
Yes, in this part of the world there's a temptation to grudge giving the other lot any kind of credit.
But Rangers would only be fooling themselves if they don't acknowledge just how dangerous their rivals have become under Ange Postecoglou.
I might not like admitting it myself but the Aussie has put together a very impressive team and a high-tempo style of play that is impossible not to admire even through my old blue lenses. If Rangers are in denial about any of that then they might have a nasty surprise coming their way on Monday lunchtime.
But that doesn't mean they should be scared of it. On the contrary, they should be absolutely bursting with excitement.
この記事は Daily Record の December 31, 2022 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、8,500 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です ? サインイン
この記事は Daily Record の December 31, 2022 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、8,500 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です? サインイン
WE 3 KINGS
Parkhead icon Broonie says Brendan and his two winning machines ensured Celtic glory double was never in doubt
CALEY THISTLE IN SEASON TICKET BOYCOTT THREAT
Furious Inverness fans hold summit on Kelty Hearts move
Dundee Newnited
Middleton is so excited for his side in the top tier
THE ENZ IS NIGH
Chelsea make their move for Leicester boss Maresca
RAF PUT OUT TO GRASS
Nadal set to miss Wimbers to focus on Olympics after Roland Garros KO
£500K GANJA GANG SHOPPED
Pungent plants alerted high street neighbours
SHORT STAY AWAY FROM FORT WILLIAM
Highland town comes dead last in magazine poll of worst places to vacation while in UK
May's regret at Grenfell tragedy survivors snub
FORMER Prime Minister Theresa May said she was wrong to not meet Grenfell Tower survivors immediately after the fire which claimed 72 lives.
The strength I learnt from my brain tumour will help me do super well in BGT
DAY TWO: ACTS COMPETE FOR FINAL SPOTS
WAR VET TAKES ON 145 MILES CHALLENGEAN
Brave Mark raises £80k for charity