Football: Rangers rely on reserves

THE champagne remains on ice at Ibrox - although it is now only a matter of time before the celebrations to mark a fifth successive Scottish title for Rangers begin in earnest.

In the absence of several big names, the callow youths, Gary McSwegan, with two goals, and David Hagen were the architects of a 3-1 home victory over Partick Thistle on Saturday.

The style of McSwegan's first goal, a clever overhead kick, bore the Ally McCoist trademark, indicating the youngster has learned well from the master, but also lending weight to McSwegan's decision to move from Ibrox at the end of the season by invoking freedom of contract. This season he has demonstrated a talent beyond his years, one which deserves first-team exposure. His decision to leave coincides with the signing of new three-year deals by Hagen and Neil Murray.

Aberdeen prolonged the wait for the Rangers supporters by beating Hearts 3-2, leaving the champions one point short of mathematical certainty. Duncan Shearer, signed from Blackburn Rovers at the start of the season, created a piece of history by scoring Aberdeen's first goal, his 25th of the season, giving him a Premier Division scoring record for the club.

The Dons play Partick Thistle at Firhill tomorrow, and anything less than two points would confirm Rangers as the champions - 24 hours before their crucial European Champions' League match against CSKA Moscow.

Celtic, who were assured of a Uefa Cup place for next season after Hibernian beat Dundee United in midweek, felt the full firepower of their benefactors in a hectic first half at Easter Road which produced three goals for the home side, although Charlie Nicholas reduced the deficit in the second half.