Rangers had a mountain to climb tonight against Royale Union Saint-Gilloise after a dreadful first-leg defeat in Belgium. The Ibrox atmosphere was key to their European success last season and the crowd played a massive role once again en route to scripting another sensational comeback defying the odds.
Below are the Rangers players rated in their stellar 3-0 win against Royale Union Saint-Gilloise
Jon McLaughlin: 7
Lacked the passing coordination at times while playing it out from the back, particularly on one occasion, which could have resulted in James Sands’ marching order. Made a crucial save in the second half to deny a rare USG attack.
James Tavernier: 8.5
The skipper led by example with an all-round display down the right-hand flank. Kept his composure while converting from the spot, played his part in Colak’s goal, and performed his defensive duties as well by preventing counterattacking threats.
Connor Goldson: 7.5
A resilient defensive display from the Englishman. Misplaced a few passes, but he made quick recoveries to make up for those small mistakes.
James Sands: 7.5
Another headstrong appearance for the USMNT international who did extremely well in the heart of the backline. Was on a booking, and, therefore, made way for Ben Davies late in the game minutes after surviving a dismissal.
Borna Barisic: 8
A stellar performance from the Croatian, who not only defended well but also contributed to the attacking build-ups. His pinpoint cross was converted by Malik Tillman to seal a place in the playoffs.
John Lundstram: 8
Majestic in the middle of the park with enormous work rate and never-ending runs. Carried the ball forward from the deep, distributed effortlessly and stretched the game down the flanks to open up space in USG defence.
Scott Arfield: 7.5
Was handed a free role to form swift attacking transitions. The experienced playmaker was sharp with his movements as his on-target effort led to Colak’s goal when the ball fell favourably into the Croatian’s path after Anthony Moris’ save. Made way for Rabbi Matondo minutes over the hour mark.
Tom Lawrence: 7.5
Showed his vision and range of passing with several through balls and crosses. Played some smart one-twos and mixed his deliveries to keep the opponents on their toes. Was replaced by Glen Kamara with minutes remaining.
Ryan Kent: 7
Was fit enough to start the contest after a brief spell on the sidelines. Faded off a bit after bright inception, but he recovered his game in the second half with cut insides, dribbles and link-up football.
Malik Tillman: 8.5
Had some underwhelming moments down the wide, but the young USMNT international never shied from having a go with the ball on his foot. He kept trying and made all the difference with a stunning header late in the contest.
Antonio Colak: 8
Was denied once by Moris. But he made no mistake in the second half to find the net from a close range. Looked more involved than before and received plaudits from the fans while making way for Alfredo Morelos.
Rangers Vs Royale Union Saint-Gilloise
Rabbi Matondo: 7.5
Injected raw pace, tricky skills and exquisite footwork down the wide, which indeed caused a menace in the visitors’ half.
Ben Davies: 7
Did well to defend the 3-2 aggregate in the dying minutes.
Alfredo Morelos: 7
Still regaining his sharpness after a long injury layoff. But he came close to finding the net on a couple of occasions.
Glen Kamara: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
