Rangers Under-19s produced a dramatic and deserved 3–2 victory over Celtic in the CAS Elite League away at Barrowfield, sealing the points with a stoppage-time winner after a performance defined by resilience, discipline and big-moment quality.
Goals from Cameron Fernie and a Chris Condy had the young Gers in front before the hosts fought back on each occasion. But deep into injury time, Condy’s driven cross was forced into the net by a retreating Celtic defender, sparking jubilant scenes at full-time.
For Rangers winger Zebedee Lawson, making his first appearance in an Old Firm derby after joining from Brighton in the summer window, the emotions were running high.
“We’re all buzzing. My first Old Firm – I was right up for it and I think that showed,” he said.
“We matched their intensity, even bettered it at times, and that’s why we got the win.”
Manager Liam Ross made several changes from last week’s reshuffled side against St Mirren, introducing a more experienced defensive unit.
Rangers delivered the matches first move of real quality when quick combinations sliced Celtic open as Arran Kerr burst in behind and squared for Fernie to tap home from close range.
Celtic responded with pressure of their own, Rydnn McGuire thwarting Kayden Daly and Lucas Clearie before the hosts eventually levelled on 30 minutes, Hatton’s dangerous cross finding Conor Daly to sweep into the bottom corner.
Before the interval, Rangers pushed again. Lawson’s wicked free kick was glanced off the post by Condy, while the forward and Lawson both went close late in the half
However, early in the second half the Colts retook the lead with Lawson winning back possession with a high press before sliding a superb pass into Condy, who finished at the near post.
“Zeb had his moment there,” Ross said afterwards.
“That’s exactly the type of high regain we wanted, and Condy’s finish was superb.”
Rangers defending became increasingly defiant as Celtic chased a late equaliser with bodies thrown in front of shots – earning major praise from their coach.
“We knew we’d have to sit in and suffer at times,” Ross reflected.
“But we defended our box brilliantly. Without Rydnn tonight, it’s a different game – he was outstanding.”
Celtic eventually found their second equaliser seven minutes from time, Joshua Mulgrew latching onto a ball and firing past McGuire with the help of a deflection.
But the Young Gers would have the last laugh as Fernie released Condy down the right, who’s low cross across the penalty went in off a Celtic defender to secure three points.
Ross was thrilled not only with the win but with the maturity shown by a remarkably young squad.
“We’ve got a younger group just now, but they’re being tested and that’s how they get better,” he said.
“These games are the best thing about being at this club.
“I asked them to rise to the occasion – and they did. I’m absolutely delighted for them.”
Lawson was equally buoyant. “A very happy changing room and a very happy gaffer,” he grinned.
“We’ll take the confidence into the next games and look to keep winning.”