As Rangers look to extend their league-winning run at Ibrox, Livingston make the short trip to Govan today still rooted to the bottom of the Premiership table after a run of then league games without a win.
But despite their position, there is a real sense from within the Livi support that the performances have not matched the results.
We spoke with Calum Brown, a Livingston fan, experienced broadcaster and journalist, to get the view from West Lothian ahead of today’s meeting.
Season so far: better performances than results
Despite sitting bottom, Brown insists Livingston fans are far from despondent.
Survival was always the realistic aim after promotion via the play-offs, and the general feeling is that the team has competed far better than the table suggests.
“I think it’s been an alright season so far,” he says.
“Livi have been competitive in almost every game, and a lot of the defeats have been by a single goal and often right at the death.”
With the exception of heavy losses at Easter Road and Celtic Park, Brown argues that performances have been encouraging and that dropped points could soon begin to turn.
A new approach under David Martindale
Livingston built their top-flight reputation on physicality and direct play, but Brown believes relegation forced a reset: and the style has changed significantly since coming back up.
“There’s a much more front-footed mindset now,” he explains.
“Livi are trying to play more on the deck rather than lumping it long.
“It’s more enjoyable to watch, but it has left us more vulnerable at the back at times.”
He points to late goals conceded as evidence of the risks of a more attacking approach, but says supporters appreciate the intent.
Players to watch - and key absences
Midfielder Lewis Smith has been Livingston’s standout this season, causing problems with his direct running and creativity.
In goal, Jerome Prior has been excellent and will need to be at his best if Livingston are to take anything at Ibrox.
However, injuries remain a concern. “Ryan McGowan has been a big miss,” Brown notes, with Adam Montgomery and Aidan Denholm also likely sidelined.
Joshua Brenet is a doubt after returning late from international duty with Curaçao after the tiny island nation shocked the world to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time.
Rangers however, have injury woes of their own with John Souttar, Derek Cornelius and Mikey Moore all out after the international break.
Earlier meeting: late heartbreak
Rangers late win at Almondvale earlier in the season still stings.
“Rangers were probably good value, but to lose it so late was frustrating,” Brown recalls.
“It fits the pattern, we’ve conceded late goals too often.”
Expectations for Ibrox
Brown is candid about Livingston’s hopes, or lack thereof for this afternoon.
“Rangers have been our bogey team.
“We’ve never won at Ibrox and I can’t see that changing,” he admits.
“Most fans just want a valiant effort and to keep the score down. One or two is acceptable, not three or four like against Hibs and Celtic.”
In short, Livingston arrive with little expectation but plenty of resilience.
While the odds heavily favour the hosts, Brown warns that Livi’s competitive performances mean they should not be completely written off.
But with football you never know – and Rangers will need to be turned on and focused from the outset – despite the upturn in form under Danny Röhl they are not in a position to coast just yet.