Supercomputer predicts final Scottish Premiership outcome as title race heats up

Rangers are braced for a tense end to the season as the Scottish Premiership title race heats up.

The Gers are a point behind leaders Hearts, with Old Firm rivals Celtic a further two points back.

Danny Rohl’s side were in imperious form heading into the split and will look to maintain that when they welcome Motherwell to Ibrox on Sunday.

Elsewhere, Celtic host Falkirk, while the Jambos face a stern test against rivals Hibs at Easter Road.

With the title race nearing boiling point, Opta’s supercomputer has run the numbers and made its final prediction on who will be crowned champions next month.

Supercomputer predicts final outcome as title race heats up

Throughout the campaign, Derek McInnes’ Hearts have remained almost unflappable at the top of the standings.

After falling behind to Motherwell on the eve of the split, the Jambos were given a scare before turning it around to win 3-1 at Tynecastle.

Looking ahead to the coming weeks, Opta’s supercomputer has had its say on how matters may unfold by May.

Across 10,000 simulations, Rohl’s Rangers finished the season as champions more often than either Hearts or Celtic, lifting the trophy in 47 per cent of those runs, compared with 35 per cent and 18 per cent respectively for their fellow title challengers.

For all the encouraging projections, however, the reality is a simple one: the Govan outfit must maintain their form and prove it on the pitch with five fixtures still to play.

Six-day period could decide Scottish Premiership winner

Following the upcoming clash with Motherwell at Ibrox, the Gers must navigate a spell that could ultimately decide the destination of the title.

A trip to Tynecastle to face Hearts awaits on 4 May, before they head to Celtic Park for the final Old Firm meeting of the season less than a week later, on 10 May.

After that comes a home encounter with Hibs – a day on which they could potentially be crowned champions if results over the coming weeks go their way.

Should the title race go to the final day, Rohl’s side will travel to Falkirk, whom they defeated 6-3 two weeks ago, while Celtic host Hearts at Parkhead.

However, it is that six-day period in early May that is likely to prove decisive.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Govan.