The May 1 meeting between Celtic and Rangers could be a title decider in all but name given the Hoops' massive goal difference advantage.
And it may even be the day Ange Postecoglou's men arithmetically tie up the league title if they beat Ross County the previous week and Gers drop points at Motherwell.
The SPFL have been reluctant to make the post-split derby match one that could decide the destination of the league trophy since the 1999 'game of shame'.
Most predictions, then, assumed this season's clash would take place first on April 24.
Instead it's a May Day meeting at Parkhead with the hosts currently six points clear.
Assuming both clubs win their first matches after the split, a win for Celtic would take it to nine points with three games remaining.
With the Premiership leaders and top scorers currently ahead of their cross-city rivals by 19 goals in the goal difference stakes, boosted by a massive 7-0 rout of St Johnstone on Saturday, it could be a title decider in all but name.
Graham Alexander's Motherwell, who sneaked back into the top six with a 94th minute equaliser at Livingston, could have a massive role to play as they host the defending champions on April 24.
A draw or a home win at Fir Park would mean if Rangers then lose to Celtic in Glasgow's east end the championship would be wrapped up that day – if Postecoglou can mastermind another three points in Dingwall.
A reverse scenario unfolded in 2018 when the Old Firm clash was set for the second matchday after the split, despite Brendan Rodgers' insistence that it should be first up.
In the double Treble season his men were miles in front rather than this term's close-run contest but when they succumbed to defeat at Hibs it made the Parkhead match the title decider.
The Hoops posted a 5-0 thrashing to secure the trophy.
