A dreadful defeat against Malmo shattered Rangers‘ Champions League dreams last week. They hosted Alashkert tonight at Ibrox in the first leg of the Europa League playoff and looked to be in trouble following John Lundstram’s marching order against the Armenian minnows. Yet they managed to grind out a result, thanks to Alfredo Morelos’ winner midway through the second half.
Below are the Rangers players rated in their narrow 1-0 win against Alashkert.
Allan McGregor: 7.5
Had a quiet first half as the visitors were defending deep against Rangers’ one-dimensional crossing game. His outing and distribution helped in staging attacking transitions when the Light Blues were lacking pace in the build-ups.
James Tavernier: 8
Active in the attacking third with his trademark overlapping runs and crosses from the right-hand flank. Although his set-pieces were weak in the first half, a perfect ball over the top of the defence set Morelos clear for the solitary goal of the game. Also delivered a perfect corner from which Goldson really should have scored.
Connor Goldson: 7
Did not face much trouble at the back as the away side posed little threat despite being a man up. Made some crucial recoveries and clearances in the second half. Should have headed home in the closing minutes of the match.
Filip Helander: 7.5
Restored stability in deep defence with timely blocks and interceptions. His positioning and passing game helped Rangers control the game from the back.
Calvin Bassey: 8
Earned his place ahead of Barisic after a couple of stunning performances against Livingston and Dunfermline Athletic. The youngster was impressive yet again as he kept on making marauding runs, creating chances while also performing his defensive duties.
Steven Davis: 8
Dominated the midfield game with his sheer experience and expertise. Regained possession in the middle of the park and worked tirelessly, particularly after Lundstram’s dismissal.
John Lundstram: 4
The red card might seem controversial, but the Englishman was dreadful in the centre of the pitch despite having enough support around him. Was having little impact before receiving the marching order.
Joe Aribo: 7.5
Had a decent game with down the middle runs, link-up play and smart one-twos to create space in the attacking third. He, alongside Davis, did not let Steven Gerrard feel the absence of Lundstram in midfield. Made way for Scott Arfield with around 10 minutes remaining.
Ianis Hagi: 8.5
Looked menacing with his swift footwork, directness, crosses and cut insides. Kept on creating chances from the flanks, while his pressing game forced the visitors to lose possession in dangerous areas. Was taken off to be replaced by Stephen Kelly with moments remaining in the match.
Ryan Kent: 5
Disappointing from the Englishman who lacked composure and creativity despite operating from inside the box. Hit the woodwork which he should have fired into the back of the net. Was taken off at halftime to be replaced by Scott Wright.
Alfredo Morelos: 7.5
Missed a few opportunities but his poaching traits saved Rangers from another setback. Kept it calm while picking up Tavernier’s pass and slotting it past the Alashkert custodian around the 67th-minute mark.
Rangers Substitutes Vs Alashkert
Scott Wright: 7.5
A positive change for the Gers as the Scotsman injected pace and flair high up the pitch. Never stopped running in the second half.
Scott Arfield: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Cedric Itten: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Stephen Kelly: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
