Despite Celtic’s eighth successive Premiership triumph, Rangers showed why they have closed the gap and are set to reignite the rivalry from the next season onwards. They had a game this afternoon against Hibernian, and Steven Gerrard’s men entertained the Ibrox crowd with some fascinating football. Despite being down to ten men in the closing minutes, the Bears clinched a 1-0 win and maintained their momentum ahead of next Sunday’s Old Firm derby.
Below are the Rangers players rated in their narrow win against Hibernian.
Allan McGregor: 7.5
Made a stunning stop in the closing minutes to protect the lead but was shown a straight red moments later forcing Ross McCrorie to feature between the sticks with all substitutes used.
James Tavernier: 7
Had a disciplined display with defensive responsibilities along with his trademark overlapping runs and crosses from the right flank. Linked up well with Arfield and Candeias and created a few chances in the attacking third.
Connor Goldson: 7.5
Was solid in the heart of the Gers’ backline as he did well to contain Marc McNulty inside the box. Looked menacing from set-pieces at the other end of the pitch.
Nikola Katic: 7
Regained his place after missing out minutes midway and delivered yet another spirited performance alongside Goldson in their defensive third.
Jon Flanagan: 7.5
Flanagan, too, was calm and composed throughout as he focused on his defensive duties first over making runs down the wide areas.
Glen Kamara: 7
The Finnish professional was combative, showed great holding ability, calmness over the ball and link-up play to create moves from the deep. Made his way for Ross McCrorie late in the game.
Ryan Jack: 8
Was excellent once again as his lofted pass over the Hibs backline eventually led to Defoe’s winner. Forced Marciano to make a strong save in the first half and concentrated more on keeping control of the midfield game after the break.
Steven Davis: 8.5
Davis exhibited his maturity and selflessness by setting the ball up for Defoe over going for the goal on his own. Depicted why the club offered him a permanent deal beyond this season.
Scott Arfield: 7.5
Has been in flying form of late and delivered a headstrong display in the attacking third despite failing to add to the tally. Linked up with his teammates, kept on playing one-twos and rotating his position to confuse the Hibernian defence.
Ryan Kent: 7
Was lively down the left flank with cut insides and direct runs. Tested Ofir Marciano in Hibs goals but was taken off at half-time to be replaced by Daniel Candeias with a suspected injury.
Jermain Defoe: 8
The veteran scored a typical poacher’s goal in the first half which proved to be the decider in this close contest. Was replaced by Alfredo Morelos in the second half.
Substitutes
Daniel Candeias: 6.5
Came in place of Kent at half-time to make his 50th appearance of this season. Had an instant impact in the attacking third, also offered his work ethics in the middle of the park.
Alfredo Morelos: 6.5
Created a few chances since returning on the pitch after serving his suspension. One of his efforts was ruled out for offside as well.
Ross McCrorie: 6.5
Came in place of Kamara late in the game but was forced to play as a goalkeeper in the closing minutes following McGregor’s dismissal.
