In the previous round Steven Gerrard and his teammates in the Glasgow Rangers uniform took advantage of the Celtic stumble to secure their first championship in 10 years. Today (Sunday) they met the same Celtic, and probably expected a parade of honor after securing the championship, but the sworn rival refrained from holding the ceremony and instead the teams stood a minute of silence as part of the fight against racism.
Celtic got Nir Bitton back on their bench after being absent for the past five weeks due to an ankle injury and started the game well. The first to get on the scoreboard was Muhammad Alionosi, who in the 23rd minute scored the advantage for the outgoing champion. Gerard’s side, who have conceded just nine goals so far, were quick to respond and Alfredo Morelos set up the game as he pushed in the equalizer in the 38th minute.
Morelos’ hair is particularly symbolic. This is the player’s 55th league goal in the Rangers uniform since joining the team, which is currently celebrating its 55th championship title.
Rangers have 89 points and are now in a loss-free balance with 28 wins and 5 draws, en route to one of the most impressive championships Scotland has ever known.
Rangers and Celtic did not take the knee before today’s Old Firm derby, instead standing together in solidarity against racism.
It follows Glen Kamara’s call for UEFA to “stop the tokenism and take a zero-tolerance approach” after the abuse he suffered against Slavia Prague. pic.twitter.com/7H7KV2cWyZ
– ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) March 21, 2021
55 – After his club celebrated their 55th Scottish top-flight title earlier this month, Alfredo Morelos’ equalizer is his 55th league goal for Rangers and his very first against Celtic. Poetic. pic.twitter.com/dEwk8gNQky
– OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) March 21, 2021
