FIVE THINGS WE LEARNED FROM THE SPFL THIS WEEKEND

ARIBO IS A MAJOR MISS FOR RANGERS

RANGERS lacked a physical presence in midfield during their pulsating 2-2 draw at Hibernian yesterday. The game in Leith looked a perfect one for the injured Joe Aribo. Hibs were not afraid to force the issue and the trademark powerful surge from box-to-box by Aribo was missing amidst Rangers’ intricate play around the penalty box.

CELTIC STRUGGLE TO FIND THEIR BALANCE

NEIL LENNON would have been pleased with Celtic’s attacking display in their 3-2 success over Livingston but defensively there was cause for concern. The manager has experimented with personnel and formations this season. In an attacking sense, it clicked on Saturday but Gary Holt’s men had plenty of chances as Lennon seeks to find the right balance.

HARKES AT HEART OF UNITED PROMISE

LAWRENCE SHANKLAND was back amongst the goals on a day when Dundee United outworked St Mirren in midfield to win 2-1 at Tannadice. A key creative influence, Ian Harkes provided United with the platform to sink ten-man Saints. Harkes (pictured) has an eye for a pass and provides great service for Shankland.

BATTLING KILLIE ARE UP FOR THE FIGHT

THIS was a much-needed victory for Kilmarnock against one of the most spirited sides in the top flight. Alex Dyer rightly hailed the character of his ten-man team in their narrow 2-1 victory over Hamilton. Given Brian Rice’s side pride themselves on their never-say-die attitude, the Ayrshire club dug deep to earn all three points.

COUNTY BOOST AHEAD OF DAUNTING RUN

ROSS COUNTY’S next three league games are against Aberdeen, Rangers and Hibs, so a 1-0 win at St Johnstone was a timely result. Stuart Kettlewell’s side had the worst defensive record in the Premiership last season but kept a valuable clean sheet in Perth. Now they take on three of the league’s top four in quick succession.