Rangers are ready

SCOTTISH FOOTBALL The Rangers manager, Walter Smith, yesterday called on his side to match the motivation of their opponents, Hamilton Academicals, in today's Tennents Scottish Cup third-round tie at Firhill Park.

The First Division side knocked Rangers out of the Cup in 1987 and Smith, who welcomes back Mark Hateley, said: "This is an important game for us. It is one of the most important factors when playing teams from a lower division that you match their motivation and then play, and that should give you a good chance of success. I have seen Hamilton about half a dozen times over the season. They are playing some good football and play with enthusiasm - and for a match of this kind they will be well up for it.

"It is pleasing to have Hateley back, because it has been an awkward time as we have had to play without any recognised front players," Smith added. "He has been a major part of our success over the last few seasons and it is good to get him back becausehe's a big influence."

Celtic also face a club from a lower league when they take on St Mirren at home. Two inspections are planned for this morning, at Montrose and Huntly.