Rangers continued their winning run as they secured a 2-0 win over Aberdeen. The result will taste sweet for Steven Gerrard as Derek McInnes’ side have been a major thorn for the Bears this season.
A draw or a loss for Rangers would have confirmed the inevitable for Celtic, but Gerrard’s men have managed to delay that for now. Rangers dominated the possession from the offset, and they moved the ball with real tempo and intent. They didn’t create any clear cut chances in the first half but did manage to test Aberdeen’s goalkeeper on occasions.
The Gers won a penalty at the beginning of the second half as Nikola Katic was brought down. Tavernier scored from the spot to give the home side a lead. Defoe missed an easy chance to make it two. Rangers looked comfortable as Aberdeen failed to muster much while going forward. Tavernier slotted his second from the spot on the 80th minute to give a comfortable and deserved win to his side.
Here is how Gerrard’s men fared.
Allan McGregor 6
Wasn’t called into action at all as Aberdeen managed just 4 attempts and only one on target.
Connor Goldson 7
Recycled the ball well. Wasn’t tested much defensively.
Nikola Katic 7.5
Won both the penalties. Did a decent job in defence whenever he was called into action. The Croatian is settling in well after an extended run in the first team.
Jon Flanagan 7
Did a fine job as a makeshift left-back. Not much went past him and linked up play well with Kent even though he isn’t a natural at left back.
James Tavernier 8
Scored two penalties which was the difference in the end. Played most of the game in the opposition’s half and made some important contribution down the right.
Ryan Jack 6.5
Started off slow but improved as the game went on. Controlled the midfield areas and never really allowed Aberdeen to get into the game
Glen Kamara 8
Another Rolls-Royce of a performance from Kamara. Just looks at ease when in possession and never seems hurried. Did all the nitty gritty job well apart from linking up play.
Scott Arfield 6
Was a bit wasteful in the final third but overall did a decent job in an advanced position.
Steven Davis 7
Again looked sharp as his movement and touches were impressive. Should be signed by Rangers again.
Ryan Kent 6.5
Always looked to drive the ball forward. Was a bit ineffective in terms of producing the final result but looked threatening.
Jermain Defoe 7
His movement and link up play was sharp. Should have found the back of the net but apart from the goal, did everything which Gerrard would have wanted from him.
Substitute
Lee Wallace N/A
Came on in the end to receive a final farewell.
Ross McCrorie N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
Daniel Candeias N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
