Rangers hosted Porto at Ibrox in the Europa League fixture looking to improve their chances of moving to the knockout stages. They did precisely that as they managed to win 2-0 on the night.
The away team looked the better team in the first half, and they came close to scoring through a corner. However, Glen Kamara intervened to clear the ball on the line. Rangers looked disjointed in the first 45 as they weren’t able to keep the possession. Barker had one presentable opportunity right at the end of the half, but he skied his shot.
The second half started in the same way as both teams lacked quality in the attacking third. Morelos changed that as he scored almost against the run of play as he finished brilliantly with his weaker foot from the edge of the box. The Colombian then turned the provider as he set up Steven Davis whose shot went in through a deflection in the 73rd minute. Gerrard’s men then saw off the win without much fuss.
Here is how Rangers fared on the night.
Allan McGregor 6
Wasn’t tested much in goal. His distribution was some times off. Made one eye-catching save but it wouldn’t have counted anyway as it was ruled offside.
Connor Goldson 8
A composed performance from the Englishman as he kept things simple. Was strong in the air and headed away quite a few crosses.
Filip Helander 7
Too many threats didn’t come his way. Looked assured in possession and dealt with most of the dangers.
James Tavernier 6
Looked shaky on quite a few occasions in the first half. His set-piece deliveries were also not the best. Improved in the second half, but it is clear that he is low on confidence.
Borna Barisic 6.5
Whipped in a few threatening set pieces. Held his own at the back. Didn’t have too much joy while going forward
Steven Davis 7
Wasn’t able to get into the game much in the first half. Found it tough to dictate the game but got a crucial goal through a deflection. Like most of his team-mates, played better in the second half.
Glen Kamara 8
His clearance off the line early on was a crucial one. Looked sharp in midfield and was able to protect the ball well with his body. The Rolls Royce of last season has finally arrived as he dominated the midfield in the second half.
Ryan Jack 7
Found Morelos with a clever pass on the edge of the box for the opener. Struggled like most of his teammates in the first half but did a decent job overall.
Brandon Barker 6
Went past his man on a few occasions but his final product was lacking. Worked hard and helped his team off the ball.
Ryan Kent 7.5
Always looked lively whenever he got on the ball and played with confidence as he wasn’t afraid to take his man on. Gave away the ball a few times in tight spaces. Looked the most likely to make something happen throughout the game.
Alfredo Morelos 9
Was finding it hard to get into the game but like most top strikers, he persevered and pounced on one-half chance which he got. Played a crucial role even in the second goal as he made a smart run and then picked out Davis on the edge of the box. His work rate and hold up play was terrific as usual.
Substitutes
Scott Arfield 7
Brought some much-needed energy on the pitch after coming on. Saw out the game with some clever play.
Joe Aribo 6
Looked sharp after he came on.
Jermain Defoe N/A
Wasn’t involved much.
