Philippe Clement’s Record with Celtic Raises Concerns for Rangers
Philippe Clement, the Belgian boss of Rangers, now holds the undesirable title of having the worst Old Firm record as a manager since the First World War. This comes after his team’s defeat on penalties in the Premier Sports Cup Final to Celtic, following an intense 3-3 draw at Hampden.
Clement’s losing streak against Celtic now stands at six games, with four of those losses occurring in regular 90-minute matches. The last time Rangers experienced such a lengthy winless streak against Celtic was under manager William Walton from 1912 to 1914. During that period, Celtic secured six consecutive victories, with the final one being a 2-1 win in November 1914, five months into World War One.
Unfortunately, Walton’s story ended tragically when he passed away in a boating accident in 1920. Despite these historical comparisons, Clement still has four more games to play to avoid being labelled as the manager with the worst-ever run in Glasgow showdowns.
Celtic’s managerial legend Willie Maley holds the record for the longest winless streak in the Old Firm fixture, going ten games without a victory from 1931 to 1935, though six of those games ended in draws. The streak finally broke at Ibrox in September 1935, when Celtic emerged victorious with a 2-1 scoreline, marking their first win at Rangers’ stadium since 1921.
Expert Commentary on Clement’s Record
Football analysts and experts have expressed concerns about Philippe Clement’s inability to secure a victory against Celtic, a crucial rival in the Scottish football landscape. They emphasize the importance of breaking this streak to restore confidence and momentum within the Rangers camp.
Clement’s Strategy Moving Forward
As Clement navigates the pressure and scrutiny surrounding his record, fans and pundits eagerly await his strategic adjustments and lineup changes for future encounters against Celtic. The upcoming matches will serve as a litmus test for Clement’s managerial prowess and adaptability.
Historical Context of Old Firm Rivalry
The Old Firm rivalry between Rangers and Celtic has a rich history dating back over a century, marked by intense competition, dramatic victories, and enduring legacies. The ongoing battle for supremacy on the pitch continues to captivate fans and inspire new generations of football enthusiasts.
Looking Ahead
As Rangers and Celtic prepare for their next showdown, all eyes will be on Philippe Clement to see if he can reverse his fortunes and lead his team to a long-awaited victory. The pressure is on for Clement to rewrite history and carve out his own legacy in the storied rivalry between the two Glasgow giants.
