McInnes delivers togetherness & intensity in Old Firm gobsmacker

WHAT HAPPENED
Rangers swept aside Celtic 3-0 at Ibrox to reach the Premier Sports Cup semi-finals, producing a dominant display that left the visitors unable to respond. The victory was described as complete control from start to finish, with Rangers winning battles across the pitch and six starters making their Old Firm debuts.

KEY DETAILS FROM THE GAME
- Dan Neil opened the scoring after team-mate Ryan Naderi robbed Cameron Carter-Vickers; Kevin Kelsy then volleyed in Ranger's second from a James Penrice cross that Naderi flicked on. Neil added a second of his own — Rangers' third — in a polished attacking performance.
- Midfield control came from Neil alongside Nico Raskin; James Penrice and Olwethu Makhanya were singled out for strong displays. Kelsy and Naderi combined effectively throughout, while Kasper Hogh was kept quiet by Emmanuel Fernandez and offered little service.
- Celtic goalkeeper Sam Johnstone was put under pressure early, giving possession away in the fourth minute that led to a Rangers chance.

WHY IT MATTERS
Derek McInnes had been searching for a marquee performance in his early months in charge, and this emphatic win provided tangible momentum and belief. The result also adds fresh intrigue to the race for the league title, with the timing significant given a league meeting between the two clubs scheduled for Sunday at Celtic's home.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
Rangers progress to face Aberdeen in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final. The teams also meet again in the league on Sunday at Celtic's home, where a large crowd is expected.

AFTERMATH
McInnes struck a measured tone after the game, noting the result was one match and that the team had won nothing yet, but the performance offered a clear template of intensity and togetherness to build on.

Source: BBC Sport Football