Rangers were held to their third draw of the season as the they could not find their way past a resolute Ross County defence with the game ending 0-0. The result leaves Rangers fourth in the Premiership table with six games of the season gone. Nine points from six games having scored just seven goals in the process, things are not looking promising for the Gers right now and if Celtic can beat Inverness tomorrow, the Premiership holders can stretch their lead at the top of the table.
Both sides had their fair share of chances throughout the game but neither could find the back of the net. Here ae three talking points from the game.
Joey Barton was missed
Joey Barton was sent home earlier this week following a training ground dispute and Rangers missed the services of the veteran Englishman big time. The midfield trio of Holt, Halliday and Windass could not add that extra bit of spark in the game. Even though Windass showed real hunger and a drive from midfield, Rangers lacked the conviction with their passing. Barton is someone who can dictate the tempo of the game and pulls the strings from midfield with his passing be it long or short. Rangers need the veteran Englishman back to improve their quality on the ball.
Celtic could have another walk in the park this season
On paper, Rangers looked the most competent team to challenge Celtic’s monopoly in the Scottish Premiership this season but with the kind of form Rangers are going through, it looks like Celtic will have an easy ride for the Premiership this season. With Hearts losing today and Rangers drawing their game, Celtic can establish a five-point lead at the top over Rangers with a game in hand. Scottish Premiership had become a one-horse race in recent years and Rangers do not look good enough to change that at least for now.
Warburton needs to change his formation
Once again, Mark Warburton fielded his side in a 4-3-3 formation and Rangers failed to impress. Warburton’s tactics has come under massive scrutiny in recent weeks, especially after the 5-1 hammering at the hands of Celtic. But, Warburton once again fielded his side in a 4-3-3 formation against Ross County and the team lacked any cutting edge. With the team struggling for goals, playing Waghorn out of position on the right flank makes the least sense. Warburton must make changes to his tactics as soon as possible to get the results in the team’s way.
