The Scottish Premiership is set to provide plenty of excitement on Sunday with four key matches kicking off the weekend. Among them are Kilmarnock hosting Celtic, live on Sky Sports, Rangers facing Hibernian, Hearts playing against Dundee United, and Falkirk traveling to Motherwell. Here’s a closer look at each match:
Pitch Perfect at Rugby Park?
Kilmarnock will debut their new grass pitch when they host Celtic, live on Sky Sports. Manager Neil McCann is optimistic about the change, stating it could be 'one of the finest in the country.' Despite Kilmarnock's impressive home record on their old artificial surface, they may face a tough challenge against Celtic. Benjamin Nygren, who has scored 17 goals and six winning goals since last season, will look to add to his tally.
Martin O'Neill is expected to be absent as he recovers from a 'small procedure' in hospital. The team's performance on this new pitch could set the tone for their upcoming games.
Can McInnes Get Off the Mark?
Rangers have had a difficult start under manager Derek McInnes, drawing with Dundee United and losing to Jagiellonia Białystok in Europa League qualifying. Despite scoring 35 goals in their last seven league games, averaging five per game, Rangers will be looking for a win against Hibernian.
Hibernian head into the match buoyed by their Conference League victory on Thursday night after starting their Premiership season with a home defeat. They have never lost consecutive home league games to the same opponent twice, making this a crucial match for both teams.
Victory for Vrancken?
Hearts' new manager Wouter Vrancken is facing a tough start as they suffered a late collapse against Aberdeen and a 6-1 loss to Benfica in Europa League qualifying. They will try to secure their first win under his guidance when they host Dundee United, who have been unbeaten in their last three visits to Tynecastle Park.
Jim Goodwin's side narrowly missed out on victory against Rangers a week ago and are targeting a return to the top six this season.
More to Come from Motherwell?
Motherwell began their European campaign with an unbeaten record, but they lost Jens Berthel Askou at the end of last season. However, Alfred Johansson's arrival has brought stability, and they secured a win against Hibernian in their Premiership opener. Falkirk, on the other hand, are out of the League Cup and have struggled recently, losing to St Mirren.
The Bairns have won their last three visits to Fir Park, but these matches span over 16 years. Falkirk will hope for a strong performance against Motherwell as they look to maintain their winning streak.
