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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
Sport
Alan Galindo

Rangers 3 Celtic 0 as Beale gets first derby win, McCrorie stakes claim - 3 things we learned

Rangers picked up the derby bragging rights for the first time this season with an emphatic win over Celtic.

The Hoops arrived at Ibrox as Scottish Premiership champions after victory over Hearts at Tynecastle last week as they bid to win a domestic Treble this season. They've had the upper-hand in the derby of late winning three and drawing one of the last four - including Hampden wins in the League Cup Final and Scottish Cup semi-final - before this game.

However, Michael Beale got his derby day triumph over Ange Postecoglou thanks to an overall excellent display from his side. Todd Cantwell, John Souttar and Fashion Sakala all netted in front of a full house of Light Blues fans to send them home in full voice. Here's three things we learned from Govan.

READ MORE: 5 free agents Rangers can sign as Michael Beale looks to topple Celtic's domestic dominance

Keeping the faith

Michael Beale once again handed the gloves to Robby McCrorie.

The Light Blues goalie is looking to put down a marker in his bid to be No1 next season. Allan McGregor and Jon McLaughlin are likely to depart with Jack Butland rumoured to be the man coming in.

McCrorie kept a clean sheet and impressed against Aberdeen including a big save from Duk and he was once again impressive here.

A nervy moment early on after losing his footing went unpunished as Oh's effort hit post.

Look commanding when called upon and produced an excellent save to deny Matt O'Riley

Staking a claim

John Souttar was in beside Connor Goldson with Ben Davies ruled out injured.

He picked up an issue last week against Aberdeen and was replaced by the former Hearts man. He played against Celtic previously alongside Davies but with Goldson the main man - this was a chance for Souttar to show he should be his partner for the rest of this season and going forward into next season.

The Scotland international has looked sharper with each passing minute after a long period on the sidelines and he looked comfortable in this one. Big header to win first challenge and settled in well. An even better header to score Rangers' second of the game to send the home fans wild.

Another 90 minutes under the belt will also do the world of good. Food for thought for his boss.

Fifth time lucky

Michael Beale has landed his first derby win as Rangers boss.

His first ended in a 2-2 draw at Ibrox and since then Celtic have won three on the bounce including the League Cup Final and Scottish Cup semi-final clashes at Hampden.

However, today is all about the Light Blues gaffer who has got that big tick in the box.

That will provide him with much confidence going into the new season as he bids to end Ange Postecoglou's dominance.

READ NEXT:

- Todd Cantwell denies Celtic Reo Hatate watergate 'rivalry' as Rangers star insists he was 'polite'

- 5 free agents Rangers can sign as Michael Beale looks to topple Celtic's domestic dominance

- Ally McCoist and Chris Sutton lose no love as Celtic and Rangers duo clash over 'unimportant' derby

- Ange Postecoglou in PFA Manager of the Year nomination as Premiership sees two bosses up for award

- Andy Walker warns Celtic duo they could face Rangers Old Firm 'pressure' amid injury-laden Ibrox trip

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