August Hearts-Hibs clash in SPL top ten
The fixtures for the 2007-08 Clydesdale Bank Premier League season were announced today, here PA Sport looks at the top 10 clashes.
Hearts v Hibernian – August 4
The SPL have ensured an explosive start to the season by pairing the Edinburgh rivals together on the opening day of the campaign. The fixture rarely disappoints, and this will be a great game to watch as the curtain is raised on the season.
Gretna v Falkirk – August 4
Gretna have finally arrived in the top flight and this is their first real test at the highest level. They could also learn a thing or two from Falkirk, who successfully made the transition from First Division to SPL a couple of years ago.
Aberdeen v Celtic – August 18
If Aberdeen are to have any aspirations of challenging the Old Firm they will have to make Pittodrie a fortress when the Glasgow giants come calling. A notoriously difficult venue, this game will also be a test of the Scottish champions’ mettle.
Gretna v Motherwell – August 25
Gretna will be groundsharing with Motherwell this season and the first clash between landlord and tenant is sure to create an electric atmosphere, as well as an interesting match. Who will really have home advantage?
Rangers v Gretna – September 1
Gretna will have had a few games to adjust to the SPL by now but will face their toughest test yet when they take on one of the Old Firm for the first time in front of 50,000 fans at Ibrox. Also a potential banana skin for the Gers.
Rangers v Celtic – October 20
Walter Smith has a 100% record against Celtic since his return to Rangers, recording wins in the last two Old Firm derbies. Far more will be at stake this time, however, and another victory will be crucial for Rangers to have serious title aspirations.
2008
Celtic v Rangers – January 2
Both teams will be determined to kick off the new year in style, as well as claim the all-important bragging rights over their rivals across the city. Celtic have home advantage and will be expected to come out on top.
Rangers v Celtic – March 29
The final Old Firm match before the league split and we should have a good idea of who is in pole position for the championship by now. Neutrals will simply be hoping the title race is still alive at this stage of the campaign.
St Mirren v Gretna – March 29
St Mirren narrowly avoided relegation last season, while Gretna will do well to survive their first term in the top flight. Both are likely to be battling the drop, meaning the clash at Love Street could be a tense affair.
Celtic v Motherwell – April 5
The final weekend before the league splits and the fixtures for the last five games are decided. By now, Celtic will have a good idea whether they are likely to hold onto their crown as Scottish champions.
