Football: Eck's boys need the grit of '91 - Spackman

0 Comments | Sunday Mirror, Mar 27, 2005 | by EXCLUSIVE By JOE McHUGH

NIGEL SPACKMAN has urged Alex McLeish's Rangers to show the Blue Grit of '91.

Spackman enjoyed his finest hour in a blue shirt when he captained Rangers to the title by beating Aberdeen 2-0 at Ibrox on the final day of the 1991 season.

The midfielder was back in Glasgow last week for the Auld Firm challenge match and was quick to offer his advice to the current crop of Ibrox talent.

With the Old Firm neck and neck the destiny of the flag could be decided when the big two meet at Ibrox after the split.

In 1991 Aberdeen were the main challengers to Rangers' dominance, with the final day of the season a never-to-be-forgotten affair.

Spackman recalled: "That Aberdeen game was unique because it was a title decider and we had home advantage - our supporters made a big difference that day.

"Games like that are about more than just ability, it's about character, bottle and belief as well.

"You need to have a big heart and that day we simply said to ourselves that we weren't going to be beaten. The final Old Firm game this season will be similar and it's days like that when managers earn their corn.

"Martin O'Neill and Alex McLeish will both have their players wound up for the game, they'll know it is a virtual league decider."

Spackman added: "As a player it's all about having faith in your own ability and your team-mates, that's what is needed to win titles.

"You need to know you can perform in the big games, when it really matters. First of all you have to compete well and then maybe enjoy a little bit of luck.

"Each individual has their own battles to win and which ever side wins most battles will win the game.

"That game against Aberdeen is one that I'll never forget, I was captain for the day and it was Walter Smith's first title.

"Our squad was really depleted by injuries and Aberdeen came with a great run to take it down to the last game.

"Richard Gough was in hospital, Ally McCoist and Ian Durrant were out injured, Tom Cowan broke his leg during the game plus we had Mark Walters and John Brown carrying injuries.

"With all that going on it was great to come out as winners and that was against Alex McLeish!

"I started the game in midfield then went to centre back and ended up playing at right back.

"Terry Hurlock played at left back which showed the true spirit of that side, there was no way that we were going to be beaten.

"Aberdeen had some early chances but Mark Hateley scored a great goal and we showed real determination that we weren't going to be beaten.

"It's good to have competition for the prizes but it all boils down to winning and that's what the current Rangers side want - the championship."