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NACHO NOVO swirled an imaginary glass of wine in honour of buddy Dado Prso after scoring the goal that clinched victory for Rangers against Hibs on Saturday.

But the little striker is adamant that a vintage victory over Celtic in Saturday's crucial Ibrox Old Firm showdown won't be the signal to start raising the champagne flutes.

Novo netted the crucial second goal 11 minutes from time against Hibs to secure a victory that kept Walter Smith's pacesetters firmly in control of the SPL title race.

The win was Rangers' 12th successive victory in the championship marathon and holders Celtic are battling to keep their bitter rivals in sight.

Smith's men have a points advantage and a game in hand over the Hoops as the season hurtles to a conclusion and the outcome of this week's Old Firm game is likely to play a pivotal role in deciding who will lift the silverware.

Most of the Light Blue legions feel that, after a 3-0 win earlier this term, a second home victory over Gord ... Read more »

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan turned his attention to next week's Old Firm encounter after beating Gretna 3-0.

"Once we scored we were reasonably comfortable," he told BBC Sport. "But we played a lot better in the previous two games without getting the breaks.

"I'm really looking forward to it," he said when asked about the forthcoming visit to Ibrox.

"These games are a mental and physical test. If you are not prepared they will chew you up and spit you out."

Rangers have a three point lead over Celtic and have played a game less.

Celtic ended a run of four games without a win at Almondvale but Strachan pointed out the excellent league form of both sides.

"Their form has been exceptional - they've won their last 12 games," said the manager.

"In our last 11, we've won 10 and drawn one."

Rangers face a pile-up of games due to their continued involvement in the Uefa Cup, Scottish Cup and two outstanding SPL matches.

Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell ... Read more »