Lee McCulloch’s appearances against Hamilton were often during his playing days, but he believes this weekend’s clash between Accies and Rangers is vital.
The former title-winning star under Walter Smith believes that the international break came at a bad time. Rangers had just hammered Hearts and momentum as starting to build. That’s why McCulloch believe it’s important Rangers kick on and win in South Lanarkshire.
With Rangers’ eyes fixed firmly on a title-challenge this season, not taking the points on Sunday doesn’t bear thinking about. These are the kind of clashes Rangers should be going out and dominating, never-mind just seeing off.
For McCulloch, it’s just important however that Rangers take the points and get out of Hamilton with the win.
Speaking in his column in the Evening Times, the former Gers hero said the following on Sunday’s contest.
“Steven Gerrard’s side would have gone into the break full of confidence after the wins over Rapid Vienna and Hearts and that makes a massive difference.
“They have taken a bit of stick for their away form this season and everyone at the club will know that it hasn’t been good enough so far. Well, this is a chance for them to show what they are about and for them to put it right and they need to pick up where they left off against Hearts.
“Accies haven’t started the season that well but it is always a tough place to go and it will be a difficult game for Rangers this weekend.”
Being kind
In truth, McCulloch is being a little kind to Hamilton. They have looked simply terrible this season so far. They’re struggling to score goals whilst continuously leaking them at the other end.
Yet, the former Gers star is right in saying that this clash is important for momentum. The Livingston defeat several weeks ago was a huge step back. With the teams around Rangers now starting to pick up a bit of form, they don’t want to be left behind.
It would be nice to see that same confidence that was on show against Hearts raise its head once more this Sunday however. Rangers are still looking for a bit of inspiration away from home, and could do with a dominant display.
Too often this season, Steven Gerrard’s side have looked a soft touch at the back when visiting Premiership sides. It makes it even more baffling when you consider just how solid they’ve been in Europe outside of Scotland. Yet, against Premiership opposition, Rangers are often found wanting.
This Sunday presents an opportunity to get a frustrating monkey off of Rangers’ back. A convincing win and performance against Hamilton, and nobody will be talking about away-day woes anymore.
