Rangers conceded late against Hearts last weekend to drop a couple of crucial points. Unlike last season, an array of teams are fighting for the coveted crown and an outrageous early goal from St Mirren this afternoon exposed the frailty once again. However, the Gers scripted a quick turnaround to make it 2-1 before the break and managed to handle the Buddies pressure late in the game to defend the scoreline.
Below are the Rangers players rated in their win against St. Mirren.
Jon McLaughlin: 6.5
Could not save Connor Ronan’s stellar long-range strike that handed the hosts an early lead. Made some routine saves otherwise on his return to action in place of Allan McGregor.
James Tavernier: 7
Made a mistake that eventually led to the Buddies’ goal, but the skipper compensated with a cross for Morelos that earned Rangers a 2-1 lead late in the first half. Kept on making overlapping runs, whipping in crosses and creating chances in the attacking third. Should have done a lot better with his passing in the defensive half.
Connor Goldson: 7.5
Despite the ongoing contract conundrum, Goldson remains irreplaceable at the heart of the backline. Maintained his supremacy in duels, made no-nonsense clearances, also tested Jak Alnwick in goal with his heading attempts.
Leon Balogun: 7.5
Recovered from a knock picked up against Brondby and started in deep defence alongside Goldson. Tried to mix the passes out from the back, also destroyed St Mirren attacks with timely blocks, tackles and clearances.
Borna Barisic: 7
Effective down the right-hand flank with his overlapping runs, crosses and cut insides. Had some tough times at the back, particularly in the closing minutes when the home side were pushing for an equalizer.
Steven Davis: 6.5
Made a shaky start in the middle of the park but he eventually controlled the show with his calmness and composure. Struggled to retain possession at times, but he made a few quick recoveries to regain the ball.
John Lundstram: 6.5
Was outmuscled by Ronan before his wonder strike for the Saints goal. Settled down with time and dominated the midfield game with down the middle runs and distribution.
Joe Aribo: 7.5
Covered a lot of ground with the ball at his feet. Impressed with his off the ball work rate, also played smart one-twos from behind the frontline to open up space.
Ianis Hagi: 7.5
Made a few attempts to find the net with his lively runs and directness. Could not beat the keeper but succeeded to earn a spot-kick after being brought down by Alan Power. Made way for Scott Arfield late in the match.
Kemar Roofe: 7.5
Converted from the spot to make things level after a frantic start. Did not make much of a difference otherwise and was eventually taken off in the closing minutes to make way for Nathan Patterson.
Alfredo Morelos: 8
Made no mistake to find the net from Tavernier’s cross. His wastefulness cost the Light Blues against Hearts, but he ensured three crucial points this afternoon with his sharpness in the attacking third. Made way for Fashion Sakala midway through the second half.
Rangers Substitutes Vs St Mirren
Fashion Sakala: 6.5
Did not have many touches since coming on, but he tried his best to help the defence while defending the narrow lead in closing moments.
Scott Arfield: 6.5
Was brought in to calm things down in midfield and keep the ball against St. Mirren’s pressing.
Nathan Patterson: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
