Rangers are enjoying an exquisite run under Michael Beale who is still unbeaten as the Ibrox chief. Although the majority of their victories have not been smooth, the fighting spirit is back in the camp while grinding out results in the recent past. They had another tricky test this evening against St Johnstone in the Scottish Cup 4th Round, but they passed it with grit and determination, thanks to a stellar strike from Borna Barisic late in the first half.
Below are the Rangers players rated in their 1-0 win against St Johnstone.
Allan McGregor: 7
Had a nervy moment late in the game where he should have done better with his outing. Otherwise a comfortable occasion for the veteran custodian who grabbed a clean sheet on the road.
James Tavernier: 8
Offered his creative spark down the right with timely overlapping runs, crosses and passes into the final third. But he made a crucial goalline clearance in the closing minutes to avoid a setback.
Connor Goldson: 8
Showed his physical as well as aerial supremacy from the heart of the backline. Was denied spectacularly by Remi Matthews around the hour mark.
Ben Davies: 7.5
Calm and composed in the defensive third as he showed his game-reading attribute along with ball-playing ability while partnering with Goldson.
Borna Barisic: 9
Has often been criticised for his frailty at the back, but the left fullback exhibited his mastery with a majestic strike which proved to be the decider in this edgy contest.
John Lundstram: 7.5
Did his best to dominate the midfield game. Won duels, made recoveries, carried the ball forward from the deep and also went for the second balls time and again to frustrate the home side.
Ryan Jack: 7.5
Jack, too, showed his strength in the centre of the pitch. Made down-the-middle runs to operate in the advanced areas and linked up well with his teammates all over the field. Made way for Scott Arfield moments before the final whistle.
Fashion Sakala: 8
Impressed once again with his pace, flair and energy. Hit the woodwork before Barisic sent the rebound into the top corner with a sensational first-time strike. Made way for Scott Wright midway through the second half.
Malik Tillman: 7.5
Did extremely well in the build-up for Barisic’s winner. Offered his creative spark as the ‘number 10’ and showed his maturity while finding his fellow attackers across the frontline. Was replaced by Glen Kamara midway through the second half.
Ryan Kent: 7.5
His dribbles and directness caused menace in the Saints’ defence. Created many chances with his cut-insides, crosses and goal-bound attempts. Left the pitch for Alex Lowry late in the fixture.
Alfredo Morelos: 7
The Colombian saw an attempt cleared off the line by Andrew Considine. Wasted a few other opportunities before making way for Antonio Colak in the closing minutes.
Rangers Subs vs St Johnstone
Scott Wright: 7.5
Forced Matthews to make a stunning save. Also created a chance for Morelos who failed to keep it on target.
Glen Kamara: 6.5
Added more balance in the central midfield with his technicality and vision.
Alex Lowry: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Antonio Colak: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Scott Arfield: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
