Story perspectives

Rangers held Hearts 2-2 as Makhanya equalized late

By Drooid · Oct 29, 2026 · How we work

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Summary

Rangers drew 2-2 with Hearts at Tynecastle on October 28, 2026.
Kevin Kelsy scored in the 16th minute, giving Rangers the lead after Laurent Mendy’s lapse.
Olwethu Makhanya headed Badredine Bouanani’s free-kick into the net in the 89th minute to level.
The draw left Rangers four points behind Celtic and four points above Hearts in the Scottish Premiership.

Summary

Derek McInnes said meeting former signings and staff at Rangers felt surreal and comforting.
Rangers will face Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup semi-final after beating Celtic.
Miguel Chaiwa left the match injured but early checks showed he was stable.
Nicky Cadden played a key role before exiting with cramp.
Coach Marink Reedijk praised the team’s intensity despite St Mirren’s 5-4-1 low-block limiting chances.

History

In 1998 Rangers entered the final Scottish Premier Division season chasing a record tenth straight league title, but Celtic overtook them by two points and Hearts defeated Rangers in the Scottish Cup final. The club’s 1997-98 campaign, marked by Marco Negri’s five-goal haul, set a benchmark of ambition that underpins today’s 2026 draw with Hearts and looming Scottish Cup semi-final.

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In 1998 Rangers entered the final Scottish Premier Division season chasing a record tenth straight league title, but Celtic overtook them by two points and Hearts defeated Rangers in the Scottish Cup final. The club’s 1997-98 campaign, marked by Marco Negri’s five-goal haul, set a benchmark of ambition that underpins today’s 2026 draw with Hearts and looming Scottish Cup semi-final.

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