The Empire Strikes Back
A bad weekend for Heart of Midlothian, but the proof will be in the response.
The SPFL continues to deliver the thrills most of the so-called top leagues in Europe cannot. Rory Smith of The Athletic and numerous good podcasts told how much he enjoyed the occasion of a Heart of Midlothian vs The Rangers tie earlier in the season. The football quality may not be near English Premier League standard, but the whole occasion, the noise, the passion and engagement of the fans, the intensity and authenticity of the football, made for a compelling spectacle.
This weekend saw two dramatic come from behind victories for the Glasgow big clubs, and 11 goals scored.
The evident drop off in quality at Celtic and initially in the season, at Ibrox, plus other sides raising standards to meet, has led to a fascinating season.
The lack of any side putting together the kind of overwhelming xG difference run Celtic has made a habit, means our old friend “variance” has run amok.
Hence the focus of this series.
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