Rangers met their old nemesis in the form of Progres in the second round of the Europa League qualifiers at Ibrox. The home side came out victorious by two goals to nil as they scored one goal in each of the halves.
Rangers dominated the proceedings, but Progres were dogged in their approach. They had clearly set out to frustrate Rangers for the 90 minutes. It was clear that Gerrard’s men needed something spectacular to open the scoring and that is precisely what Joe Aribo provided as he received the ball on the half-turn and finished brilliantly from the edge of the box. Morelos also had one great chance, but he fluffed his line and the home side went in with a 1-0 lead at half time.
Another new signing got in the act in the second half as Sheyi Ojo added comfort to the lead as he scored through a quick corner from a lovely finish. James Tavernier missed a spot-kick as he only managed to hit the post after Jones was brought down. The home side endured some nervy moments at the end of the game but they managed to keep the all-important clean sheet which puts them in a strong position to progress to the next round after the first leg.
Here is how Gerrard’s men fared.
Allan McGregor 7.5
Made one regulation save before half time to keep the lead intact. Was called into action late on in the game as the veteran goalkeeper closed down quickly to make a great stop after some sloppy defending.
Connor Goldson 7
Had a more or less comfortable game at the back as Rangers dominated the proceedings. Dealt with whatever came his way.
George Edmundson 8
Was a surprise pick over Katic but showed his worth by defending astutely. Made some decisive blocks and interceptions and was definitely the best defender on the pitch.
James Tavernier 7
Missed from the spot but as usual, worked hard and provided a constant attacking threat from the right side.
Andy Halliday 7.5
Worked like a maniac down the left and linked up play well. Keeping Barisic on the heels with his performance.
Steven Davis 7
Dictated the game as he formed a base of attack and played some wonderful passes to keep the game moving.
Ryan Jack 7.5
Worked hard as usual and was almost everywhere on the pitch. Did the typical nitty-gritty job in midfield with aplomb.
Joe Aribo 9
Bossed the midfield and showed great composure to finish smartly for the opening goal. Created some great chances for his team-mates as well. Just looked a step ahead of his opposition every time. Faded a bit in the second half.
Scott Arfield 6.5
Played his first competitive fixture of this season and did a decent job in the attacking third as he helped his team-mates get into space.
Sheyi Ojo 7.5
Finished brilliantly to double Rangers’ lead. Once again an eye-catching performance from the on-loan star who looks set to have a big season
Alfredo Morelos 6.5
Should have scored his mandatory goal as he missed some chances which one would expect him to put away. However, finishing aside, the Colombian was a constant threat with his link-up play and movement.
Substitutes
Jordan Jones 6.5
Looked effective after coming on as he took on defenders and won the penalty.
Jermain Defoe N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
Greg Stewart N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
