Rangers resumed their league campaign with a 1-0 win over St. Mirren. The game was a dull affair as the Gers never really got out of their second gear. However, they got the job done by ensuring three points.
The home side saw a lot of the ball, but they seemed to lack the cutting edge in the final third against a hard-working St. Mirren side. Rangers though found their breakthrough in the 34th minute as Defoe slotted in from Barisic’s impressive low cross.
Rangers continued to probe in the second half, but they failed to put the tie to bed. However, they held on to a clean sheet to ensure a crucial win. Here is how they fared on the night.
Allan McGregor 6
Didn’t have much to do in goal as St. Mirren didn’t manage a shot on target.
Connor Goldson 7
Swept up the dangers well defensively. Pressed high when required and played with confidence.
Nikola Katic 6.5
Had a few headed chance while attacking set-pieces. Was caught flat-footed once in the first half. Apart from that one moment, he did his job well.
Borna Barisic 8
Just looks on another level at the moment as he threatened consistently down the left. Assisted the first goal and put in some inviting crosses in the box. Was the most creative outlet for Rangers.
Jon Flanagan 6.5
A no-nonsense performance from the former Liverpool man. Nothing too flashy but got the job done as he supported well in attack and looked strong defensively.
Steven Davis 6
The midfielder failed to create many chances but kept things moving in the middle. Put in a decent shift and worked hard.
Glen Kamara 6
Played a bit safe instead of looking to open up the defence. Steady but unspectacular.
Ryan Jack 6
Played with his usual energy and was able to win the ball well when Rangers lost possession. Lacked the cutting edge though in the final third.
Ryan Kent 6
Made once decent run in the first half where he played a good one-two with Aribo. However, apart from that, Kent never really looked into his element as St. Mirren defenders marshalled him well.
Joe Aribo 7
Continues to thrive in the role on the right. Lacked the cutting edge but looked threatening whenever he got the ball. Stood out amidst a host of average performances tonight.
Jermain Defoe 6.5
Always looked to make the runs from the shoulder of the last defender. Scored another goal with an instinctive finish. Failed to get in the game much but did a decent job overall.
Substitutes
Scott Arfield 6
Occupied some dangerous positions in the final third and linked up play well.
Sheyi Ojo 6
Looked threatening after coming on.
