Celtic 2-1 Rangers: Brendan Rodgers’ side on brink of title

This was another utterly compelling derby, and one which summed up the Premiership title race. Celtic are the better team with more quality players, yet were still somehow unconvincing.

This now inevitable league crown has not been won with the flourish of Rodgers’ first era, or the last two under Ange Postecoglou. Celtic won’t care. In fact, it might make it all the sweeter.

Despite their toil in sight of the line in this game, their victory was deserved and yet again their big players stepped up when it counted. That’s four Old Firm games unbeaten this season, with three wins.

McGregor was immense, especially in the first half. Having him fit again, alongside Reo Hatate, O’Riley, and Cameron Carter-Vickers has been the difference in the run-in. Rangers simply don’t have players of that ilk.

That was perhaps summed up by Lundstram’s challenge, which effectively killed their hopes. It was a poor decision from an experienced player and cost his team.

Philippe Clement has been praised for making a fist of this title race since arriving in the autumn. Especially given the injury list he has had to contend with.

The loss at Ross County and draw with Dundee in the space of three days last month was the turning point and, when the dust settles, those will be the moments they reflect on.

The same questions over this squad will linger. Is it a mentality issue? Or are they simply not up to the standard required?

Those are the issues Clement and the club will have to grapple with in the summer.

Before that, they have to take some momentum into the Scottish Cup final against Celtic in a bid to end an up-and-down season with two trophies.

That would be some consolation for finishing as Premiership bridesmaids again.