Although it’s been a dead rubber tie, both Rangers and Hearts assessed each other ahead of locking horns in the Scottish Cup final. Giovanni van Bronckhorst rested his first-team stars to avoid fatigue and further fitness issues prior to midweek’s Europa League final, yet the Gers came back from behind to secure a commanding 3-1 win at the Tynecastle Stadium.
Below are the Rangers players rated in their win against Hearts.
Jon McLaughlin: 7
Was restored between the sticks in place of the Light Blues’ ‘number 1’ Allan McGregor. Could have done little to stop Peter Haring’s strike midway through the first half but was comfortable otherwise except for a few routine stops.
Adam Devine: 7.5
Earned a start as the right fullback after an impressive cameo against Dundee United. Maintained the balance between defence and attack despite being a 19-year-old teenager who has just been promoted to the senior setup.
Leon Balogun: 7
Aggressive defending from the veteran Nigerian who was swift with his tackles and recovering before initiating counter-attacking moves from the heart of the backline. Made way for Jack Simpson around the hour mark.
James Sands: 7.5
Slotted in as a centre-half alongside Balogun. Although the USMNT international is not most comfortable in a defensive role, his game-reading and concentration helped him pass the Jambos test on the road.
Leon King: 8
The highly-rated youngster exhibited his versatility by featuring as a left fullback. Was a constant threat with his overlapping runs and link-up play. Also, his composure at the back exhibited his maturity at such a tender age.
Steven Davis: 7.5
The maestro proved his mastery once more while pulling the strings from the deep-lying midfield role. Was spot on with his tackles, won majority of duels and dominated the midfield game before making way for Tony Weston with around 20 minutes remaining.
Aaron Ramsey: 7.5
An hour of football for the Welshman who set it up for Lowry late in the first half. Much-needed game-time for the Juventus loanee who holds all the traits to make a difference in the Europa League final. Was replaced by Cole McKinnon who went on to find the net late in the match.
Alex Lowry: 9
The highly-rated teenager was the showrunner with his sheer brilliance and creative spark. Assisted Itten from a corner before finding the net himself with a neat finish to complete the comeback.
Scott Arfield: 6.5
Had an early effort denied by Craig Gordon in Hearts’ goal. Played his part in a few build-ups and was eventually replaced by Charlie McCann at halftime.
Amad Diallo: 7
Missed the target narrowly a couple of minutes prior to Lowry’s strike. Made way for Ross McCausland around the hour mark.
Cedric Itten: 8
A rare start for the Swiss centre-forward who exhibited his poaching threat by heading home from a close range. Utilized his physicality while spearheading the Rangers’ attack.
Rangers Subs Vs Hearts
Charlie McCann: 7
Lively from the young midfield ace who carried the ball from the deep and tried his best to operate in the advanced areas of the pitch.
Cole McKinnon: 7.5
A dream outing for the 19-year-old who scored his maiden goal at the senior level.
Jack Simpson: 7
The forgotten defender played his final few minutes in Rangers colours.
Ross McCausland: 7.5
Excellent down the wide as he set it up for McKinnon late in the contest.
Tony Weston: 6.5
Came close to finding the target, but his header went just wide.
