Live on Skysports 1: Wed 19.30: Celtic are evens with Paddy Power to see off Rangers but it’s set to be another close one.
Rangers were beaten 3-0 at Parkhead when they met Celtic there ten days ago but Walter Smith’s charges have bounced back well since, progressing against the odds in the Europa League and then hammering St Johnstone 4-0 at Ibrox on Sunday.
The latter result came just after the Hoops’ lengthy unbeaten run came to an end at Motherwell but bearing the last Old Firm derby in mind, Paddy Power nevertheless make Neil Lennon’s men even money favourites to come out on top as the pair meet for the fourth time this year in a cup replay.
The ‘Gers are Boylesports’ 3/1 outsiders but they will surely perform better than they did in this fixture last time out and a closer encounter, more akin to the pair’s original cup stalemate looks on the cards. 5/2 for it to finish all square again possesses plenty of appeal then and brimming with confidence now the title is once more within their grasp, Smith’s troops are a decent shout in the handicaps with a goal start at 5/6 courtesy of Stan James while 888Sport price them at 11/1 to prevail from the penalty spot.
Both teams should definitely find the net (17/20, ) and punters could reap rewards from being specific in terms of which players will get on the scoresheet.
Celtic striker Anthony Stokes has been left on the bench for the last three meetings between the sides and that could be the case again in this one but Gary Hooper will start and having notched three times in his three games against Rangers this term, he has to be fancied at 11/8 (Boylesports) to strike again at some point.
Recommended Bets:
Gary Hooper to score at any time – 11/8 (Boylesports)
Rangers (+1) to beat Celtic in the handicaps – 5/6 (Stan James)
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