It was a must-win game for Rangers who visited Parkhead to clash heads with Old Firm rivals Celtic. The Hoops had a nine-point cushion before the tie and they stretched it to 12 after the game despite a fierce fight from the Light Blues. James Tavernier’s heroics went in vain as the Celts clinched an edgy 3-2 win capitalising on Gers’ frailty in deep defence.
Below are the Rangers players rated in their defeat against Celtic.
Allan McGregor: 5.5
As expected, the veteran Scotsman had a busy afternoon between the sticks. Made some decent saves but was slow to react on a few occasions including the Bhoys’ goals.
James Tavernier: 9
His stellar free-kick earned Rangers an equaliser late in the first half. His header brought them back in contention with ten minutes remaining, however, he steered an attempt wide moments later that could have avoided yet another derby defeat.
John Souttar: 4
A late injury ruled Connor Goldson out of the contest. Michael Beale was forced to deploy John Souttar in deep defence, but his howler allowed Jota to make it 3-1 around the 73rd-minute mark.
Ben Davies: 5
Was at fault for Celtic and Kyogo Furuhashi’s second of the game. Made a great last-ditch tackle to deny the hitman’s hat-trick, but the damage was already done by the Englishman as it ruined the balance and momentum.
Borna Barisic: 7.5
Was impressive down the left with his marauding runs and crosses. Set it up for Tavernier for his late header that reduced the deficit.
Ryan Jack: 6.5
Combated in midfield to win the duels. But he lacked the creative spark and vision while scripting attacking transitions from the deep. Made way for John Lundstram with minutes remaining.
Nicolas Raskin: 6.5
Showed glimpses of his quality with dribbles, ball-carrying attributes and down-the-middle runs. But he could not maintain the tempo all throughout the outing.
Todd Cantwell: 6
An afternoon to forget for the winter recruit who failed to show his mastery in and around the attacking third. Got replaced by Scott Wright late in the tie.
Malik Tillman: 6
The in-form Gers playmaker struggled against the Hoops’ defence. Could not create chances for his fellow attackers and was eventually taken off for Fashion Sakala midway through the second half.
Ryan Kent: 5
A dreadful performance from the wide attacker who kept on losing duels and showed little fightback. Should have been replaced around the hour mark.
Alfredo Morelos: 5.5
Forced Joe Hart to make a save but he should have done a lot better to find the net. Made way for Antonio Colak for the final few minutes.
Rangers Subs vs Celtic
Fashion Sakala: 5.5
Could not make any noteworthy contribution since replacing Tillman in and around the attacking third.
John Lundstram: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Antonio Colak: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Scott Wright: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
