Derek McInnes, now manager of Rangers, can look back with fondness on his playing debut in the fierce Old Firm derby in November 1996. However, the match is indelibly marked by a singular, almost unbelievable, miss from teammate Peter van Vossen.
A Game of High Stakes
The 1996 clash at Celtic Park was steeped in tension as Walter Smith's Rangers pursued a record-equalling ninth consecutive league title. While Brian Laudrup's early goal secured a vital victory, the match was defined by a series of dramatic events, including two saved penalties and, most notably, Van Vossen's glaring miss.
The Infamous Miss
With Celtic pushing for an equalizer, Van Vossen found himself clear through on goal. After springing the offside trap and receiving a pass that bypassed the goalkeeper, the striker had an open net from seven yards. Despite his Champions League pedigree with Ajax, Van Vossen sent his effort sailing over the bar. McInnes, who played in that game, described the miss as "unfathomable" and something that "defined his entire Rangers career."
McInnes recalled that manager Walter Smith was more angered by the missed chance than celebratory of the win, as it had put the game at risk. "I still don't know how he misses it," McInnes said, noting that the outcome of the game was fortunately not significantly impacted by the miss.
McInnes's Own Debut
McInnes's own performance on that night was solid, contributing to a game plan designed to control the midfield and supply attacking players. The tactic involved a midfield pairing of McInnes and Craig Moore to break up play and keep possession simple. McInnes emphasized his desire not to let his teammates or the club down, especially in a dressing room filled with "serial winners."
Historical Context
The 1995-96 season was a critical one, with Celtic's manager Tommy Burns losing all four league derbies, a factor contributing to his departure. For Rangers and Smith, securing the ninth title was paramount, a pressure felt throughout the squad. McInnes highlighted the collective responsibility to achieve this milestone.
Managerial Philosophy
As McInnes prepares to manage in his first Old Firm fixture, he draws on Smith's fundamental approach to such games. McInnes believes that in derbies, the focus should be on the basics and individual players performing their roles well. He noted that in his playing days, the motivation within the squad for these matches was always high, driven by the manager's emphasis on fundamental execution.
McInnes also brings experience from his time at Hearts, where he managed in derbies. He understands the significant impact derby victories have on supporters and the psychological blow they can inflict on opponents. With Rangers seeking to establish an early advantage and break a five-year streak without a first-campaign derby win, McInnes sees this as an opportune moment to "strike a blow" against their rivals and assert their claim for the trophy.