Celtic's grip on the Scottish Premiership is facing its sternest test of the season following a pair of damaging league results. The champions have taken just one point from their last two domestic outings, losing to Falkirk and drawing with Dundee United, a slump that has allowed Rangers to close the gap at the summit to a single point.

Celtic remain top of the table with 28 points from 12 games, but their recent form of two wins, one draw and two losses in the last five has introduced fresh tension into the title race. The 2-0 defeat away to Falkirk on November 1st, with goals from Ethan Ross and Scott Tanser, was followed by a 3-2 European win over Beşiktaş but preceded by a 2-2 home draw with Dundee United.

Rangers' momentum builds title challenge

Rangers' progress to the Premier Sports Cup Final and an unbeaten league run have solidified their challenge. They have also beaten Celtic in two cup competitions this season, underlining a shift in the dynamic between the two Glasgow giants. With three more league derbies still to come this campaign, the balance of power is being scrutinised more closely than at any point in recent years.

Radio presenter Jeff Stelling described a recent on-air discussion about the situation as a "'love in' between McInnes and Coisty," referencing fellow presenter Ally McCoist. Analyst Hugh Keevins has also commented on the changing landscape, pointing to Celtic's uncharacteristic stumbles.

Managerial legacy under scrutiny

The conversation has extended to managerial legacies, with Derek McInnes' own trophy record highlighted. His last trophy win as a manager came 12 years ago, when he guided his former side to a League Cup Final victory over Inverness Caledonian Thistle at Celtic Park. That remains his only major honour.

Celtic's dominance, which has seen them win 14 of the last 15 league titles, was built during a period of instability at Ibrox. The one exception, Rangers' 2021 title win, coincided with what was described as a dysfunctional period at Celtic Park involving managerial issues and poor recruitment.

Brendan Rodgers' side must now respond quickly, starting with their next Premiership fixture at home to Kilmarnock on Sunday. Kilmarnock are currently 12th in the table, and Celtic thrashed them 5-1 in the reverse fixture in August. The champions' top scorer this season is Camilo Durán, who has seven goals, including a late brace in the midweek victory over Beşiktaş.

Read the full report at Daily Record Football