Rangers travelled to Rugby Park knowing well that they needed to get a win after Celtic set the pace by demolishing St. Johnstone 7-0. The Gers left it very late to secure the three points as Connor Goldson struck through a corner in the stoppage time to hand Rangers a 2-1 win.
Gerrard’s team controlled the proceedings and dominated the game in the first half. Rangers scored through a corner as Nikola Katic headed the ball firmly and the goalkeeper only managed to parry it in Scott Arfield’s path who scored from close range to give his side the lead. Morelos got an excellent headed chance before the break, but he failed to convert.
Eamonn Brophy created some trouble for Rangers, but they survived an early scare in the second half. O’Donnell equalised for Kilmarnock in the 83rd minute after the away team failed to clear their lines. Rangers showed urgency after conceding the equaliser and the second goal again came through a corner routine as Goldson thumped the header in.
Here is how Gerrard’s men fared.
Wes Foderingham 6
Could have done a bit better to prevent the goal. Apart from that, did his job alright.
Nikola Katic 6
The Croatian looks impressive more often than not, but he has one or two mistakes in his game, which makes him look vulnerable. Did a decent job for most parts and played a big role in the opening goal. Needs to cut down on avoidable errors.
Connor Goldson 7.5
Like Katic, the big defender also had his moment of vulnerability as he was caught out of position on occasions. Secured the game in the end with a powerful header.
James Tavernier 6
Played a big part in both the goals as his deliveries were on point. However, wasn’t able to link up play well while going forward. The captain and Ojo didn’t seem to be on the same wavelength often.
Borna Barisic 5
Hesitated several times in putting crosses in when he was in plenty of space. When he put in the cross, it wasn’t good enough. Worrisome performance from the Croatian.
Steven Davis 7
Tried to make things happen in the first 45. Showed great movement and always came upon the ball. Lacked that incisiveness in the second half.
Ryan Jack 7
Worked hard like usual and did almost everything which is required from a midfielder. Typical industrious performance.
Scott Arfield 6.5
Played in a free role in the attacking third and tried to get himself in the pocket of space. Faded as the game went on. Scored from close quarters.
Sheyi Ojo 6
His final product might be worrying for Gerrard and the Rangers fan. Worked hard but not too great, not too terrible.
Joe Aribo 6
Not the best of the game for the new signing as he just looked a bit off with his driving runs. Picked out some neat passes.
Alfredo Morelos 6.5
Looked his typical self as he pressed harrassed and created trouble to the opposition with his runs and movements. Should have scored in the first half.
Substitutes
Jordan Jones N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
Greg Stewart N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
George Edmundson N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
