About a fortnight ago, Rangers’ rampant form under Philippe Clement had few believing that even Celtic could catch them this season.
It is easy to get carried away when a team is rising into the apex of a good spell and – with Rangers still competing on four fronts – talk of a quadruple was rife.
But after defeat to Motherwell in the Scottish Premiership, a Europa League exit at the hands of Benfica, and a frustrating Dens Park call-off, that good feeling has been replaced with a sense of confusion.
There’s a sentiment too that Celtic – after manager Brendan Rodgers had cut a flustered figure in recent weeks – have somewhat stabilised amid the madness.
As everyone stops for an international break breather, looking at the Scottish football landscape it’s clear that we’re in for one almighty end to the season.
Not that the drama has gone anywhere.
Rangers and Celtic neck and neck
Celtic are currently top of the Scottish Premiership by virtue of that Dens Park call-off, with the rescheduled fixture now set to take place after the April 7th Old Firm clash.
It means that the Parkhead side – should both Rangers and Celtic win against Hibs (H) and Livingston (A) – could be waltzing into Ibrox with a slender lead to defend.
They could however be without their manager, who faces charges for calling the referees in their defeat to Hearts “incompetent”.
The Gers are also set to welcome back at least four of their injury-ravaged squad ahead of the hotly anticipated third Old Firm of the season. There is also big hope Abdallah Sima might make it too.
Celtic are also set to welcome back some of their squad – Callum McGregor, Cameron Carter-Vickers & Reo Hatate amongst them – ensuring excuses will be kept to a minimum.
And all of this is taking place before Hampden Scottish Cup semi-finals and the Scottish Premiership split.
Scottish Premiership twists await
What that change in mood and atmosphere has done is somewhat balance the scales which were leaning heavily towards Rangers.
It’s clear that there are several twists and turns to navigate until the end of the Scottish domestic season and whilst we’re all desperate for a Rangers victory it’s a hard final furlong to call.
Both sides are neck and neck heading into the last stretch and no matter what happens, we are in for one almighty crescendo come the end of the season.
So strap yourselves in, enjoy your breather over this fortnight and get ready for the madness to resume when it all kicks back off against Hibs next week.
