Boyd boost for Old Firm clash

RANGERS manager Walter Smith yesterday spoke of his delight at having Kris Boyd available to face Celtic at the end of the month after fearing the striker had been ruled out of the crucial Old Firm derby.

Boyd netted his 21st goal of the season as the Scottish champions restored their 10-point lead at the summit of the SPL with a 3-0 win over Hibernian yesterday.

But a yellow card for the SPL’s all-time top goalscorer late in the first half was a cause for concern for the Rangers camp who thought the caution had sent Boyd crashing through the disciplinary points barrier.

However, referee Steve Conroy clarified the booking, for a foul on Merouane Zemmama, was for obstruction, meaning the fans’ favourite will be available for the hugely-anticipated clash at Ibrox on February 28.

Steven Whittaker set the ball rolling with a lovely strike early in the second half, Boyd doubled the lead from the penalty spot and Miller put the gloss on the win in injury time.

Twenty four hours earlier Celtic’s title hopes suffered a major blow as Aberdeen came from behind three times to draw 4-4 against the Bhoys at Pittodrie.

The first half ended level after Celtic goals from Diomansy Kamara and Marc-Antoine Fortune had been cancelled out by Michael Paton and Darren Mackie.

The visiting side went two clear with goals from Ireland duo Robbie Keane and Aiden McGeady but Aberdeen striker Steve MacLean reduced the deficit from the penalty spot before grabbing a dramatic late equaliser.

To add to Celtic’s woes they had Darren O’Dea sent off in the dying stages.