With the bitter memory of a 1-0 defeat to Kilmarnock still fresh, Philippe Clement’s Rangers side returns to Ibrox this Sunday (27 October) for a must-win clash against St Mirren. After a thrilling 4-0 victory over FCSB in the Europa League, fans will be hoping this marks the start of a strong run of form in the SPFL. Sitting six points behind league leaders Celtic and Aberdeen, the Gers need every point they can get, and St Mirren might just be the perfect opponent to keep the momentum going.
Bouncing Back in Style
Rangers may have had a rollercoaster of a season so far, but Thursday night’s performance against FCSB showed the fans exactly what Clement’s squad is capable of. The European win was a breath of fresh air for the Gers, and supporters will be hoping it signals the turning point we’ve all been waiting for. After all, a commanding win at home would be the perfect way to shake off the inconsistent form that has plagued the season.
On the other hand, St Mirren are enduring a rough patch of their own. Last weekend’s 4-0 loss to Hearts was the third consecutive defeat for Steve Robinson’s side, and they sit in a vulnerable eighth place on the table. A Rangers team hungry for redemption could spell trouble for them this Sunday.
One of the biggest challenges likely to face Rangers against St Mirren will be the low-block set up that Rangers have really struggled with. If they can maintain the pace and urgency we seen against FCSB midweek St Mirren will surely struggle to cope.
Team News: Injuries Looming Large
Tom Lawrence’s early exit at halftime against FCSB raises questions about his availability, and fans might also have to do without Cyriel Dessers, who suffered an eye injury in the same match. Balogun, thankfully, seems likely to play despite cramping up late in the game.
Elsewhere, the Gers’ injury list remains long. Ridvan Yilmaz is close to a return from his thigh injury but won’t be ready for Sunday, while Rabbi Matondo and Oscar Cortes are still sidelined. Danilo is inching closer to full fitness, which should bring some relief in the coming weeks.
High Stakes for Clement and the Fans
For Clement, a home win against St Mirren isn’t just desirable—it’s essential. Another slip-up in the league would test the patience of the Ibrox faithful, who expect far better from a team that should be contending at the top, not playing catch-up. While the Gers are separated by an eight-point gap heading into this match, there’s no doubt they should look to widen it to 11 by the final whistle.
Where to Watch the Action Unfold
Fans unable to make it to Ibrox can tune in live to BBC Sport Scotland’s coverage, which offers live commentary of the 3 pm kickoff. For those who’d rather experience the thrill in person, this fixture promises the electric atmosphere of Ibrox and an eager crowd ready to push their team back up the standings.
Team Prediction for Rangers v St Mirren
GK: Jack Butland
RB: James Tavernier
CB: John Souttar
CB: Robin Propper
LB: Jefte
CM: Connor Barron
CM: Nicolas Raskin
AM: Mohamed Diomande
RW: Vaclav Cerny
LW: Nedim Bajrami
CF: Hamza Igamane
Prediction: Rangers 4-0 St Mirren
With a point to prove and Ibrox behind them, Rangers are primed for a resounding win. The team’s defensive line will need to remain solid, while the attack, led by players like Cerny, Bajrami, and Diomande, has the chance to exploit a shaky St Mirren backline. Clement’s side should bring nothing less than high tempo, high press, and a relentless drive to dominate and deliver all three points.