Scintillating Rangers have 20 point advantage over Celtic as Parkhead wind up merchant gets rinsed - Hotline

Rangers fans were delighted with their team’s display against West Ham but also lined up to have a pop at Hotline regular Gordon Ashley’s praise for Celtic in their 2-2 draw with Blackburn at the weekend.

John Wilson emailed: “Gordon Ashley needs a lie down in this heat - he gushes Saturday’s game against Blackburn was one centre half away from some team. I take it he missed Siegrist’s saves and Celtic could not manage a win. Rangers beat a nearly full strength West Ham, who had been undefeated in 10 games, but somehow Gordon will make this out to be pre-season rubbish no doubt.

“He’d better hope Maeda’s in defence, because CCV will need to rugby tackle Matondo, who will rip that static defence to shreds.” Gary Stevenson, Newtonhill , emailed: “So Ashley’s Best Ever Celtic side manage a 2-2 draw with struggling English Championship side Blackburn Rovers while Rangers beat high flying English Premiership West Ham 3-1. I know, it’s only friendlies and don’t worry, Blackburn will get better.”

Scott Gowers, Edinburgh, added: “Ashley seemed to be in awe of his club’s performance against Blackburn and claims it’s the best his beloved team have performed. Rangers have just put three past a team which has qualified for European football, a club which has spent more than £40m in the transfer window and are in a higher division than Blackburn.

“I just wonder how much in awe of Rangers Mr Ashley is, after all he comments more on Rangers than his own club. Can I remind Gordon that performances don’t matter if you don’t win. It’s truly been a pleasure and good laugh reading Gordon’s comments but when VAR is in what can he possibly write about as VAR should wrong the bad decisions and uphold the good ones. Roll on VAR - a 20