Rangers were faced with a challenging match as they took on St Mirren at the SMiSA Stadium on Boxing Day, December 26, 2024, aiming to consolidate their position at the top of the Scottish Premiership standings. After enjoying recent success with four consecutive league victories, the Light Blues sought to secure another win to narrow the gap with their rivals, Celtic.
The match kicked off at 5:45 PM local time, with both teams displaying different aspirations for the encounter. Rangers, led by manager Philippe Clement, entered the match after triumping 1-0 over Dundee FC and were firmly positioned second on the league table. Meanwhile, St Mirren were riding high following their own two successive wins, showcasing their determination to climb the standings.
Rangers lined up with Jack Butland starting between the posts, having returned after missing the previous game for personal reasons. He was supported by James Tavernier, Dujon Sterling, Leon Balogun, and Jefte forming the backline. The midfield featured Connor Barron and Mohammed Diomande, tasked with supporting the attacking trio consisting of Vaclav Cerny, Nedim Bajrami, and Ianis Hagi, who aimed to provide creativity and goal-scoring opportunities for striker Hamza Igamane.
St Mirren, managed by Stephen Robinson, boasted their own set of talent. The team saw Ellery Balcombe as goalkeeper, with Richard Taylor, Marcus Fraser, and Alex Gogic forming the defensive unit. The Buddies displayed wonderful form, with players stepping up when needed. They entered the match brimming with confidence after their recent performances against St Johnstone and Ross County.
From the outset, it was clear the clash held high stakes for both sides. Rangers were seen as heavy favorites, having previously beaten St Mirren 2-1 during their last visit to Shire's home. But the match quickly turned on its head.
Midway through the first half, St Mirren was awarded a penalty after Jack Butland collided with Greg Kiltie. Following review by VAR, the penalty decision was confirmed, leading to Oisin Smyth stepping up to convert it confidently, placing St Mirren 1-0 up as he celebrated with exuberance, silencing the traveling Rangers supporters.
“St Mirren have worked so, so hard,” noted former player Stephen McGinn on BBC Sportsound. “Some of the play has been excellent…they've looked dangerous whenever they press forward.” His comments reflected the visitors’ struggles as Rangers failed to respond effectively to the pressure.
Despite Rangers’ efforts to find their rhythm, the team lacked cohesion and clarity. The first half concluded with the Buddies leading 1-0, and it was evident the Light Blues needed to spark life and creativity to turn the tide.
Second half adjustments were anticipated with Clement aiming to find the right mix to unsettle the St Mirren defense. Fans voiced their concerns on social media about the team's performance, particularly pointing out the absence of key player Nico Raskin, whose energy and dynamism might have provided the needed impetus.
After the break, Rangers sought to bounce back, pushing for equalization. With the introduction of substitutes, including Robin Propper and Danilo, they aimed to claim back control of the match. But St Mirren remained resilient, blocking multiple attempts and thwarting clear chances.
Rangers desperately needed inspiration and tried to rack up the pressure, yet their attacks often fizzled out as St Mirren's defense held firm. This challenge prompted numerous off-target shots from Tavernier and Diomande, adding to the frustration for their fans, some of whom expressed doubts about the side's tactical maneuvers.
With the minutes rolling on, the fatigue of the festive schedule began to show. Rangers maintained possession but struggled to penetrate the organized St Mirren backline. St Mirren, meanwhile, looked to double their lead through counterattacks but were unable to convert their chances effectively.
The match wound down as St Mirren secured their 1-0 victory, leaving Rangers reflecting on missed opportunities. The defeat halted Rangers' winning streak, reinforcing St Mirren's top-four ambitions, with the Buddies sitting comfortably after yet another commendable performance.
“They can be proud of this victory,” said McGinn. “The players really stepped up and delivered.” The sentiment echoed throughout the stadium as St Mirren celebrated their hard-earned triumph.
This result marks yet another chapter within St Mirren's season and reminds Rangers of the relentless competitiveness within the league. The stakes only rise as both teams look forward to their next fixtures, with St Mirren aiming to consolidate their position and Rangers re-evaluated their approach after this setback.
