Despite the dismissal of Michael Beale, Rangers showed little urge and intent on the pitch when they clashed heads with Aris in the Europa League. Steven Davis demanded a reaction from his men against in-form St Mirren this afternoon and the interim Gers boss must feel relieved as his side clinched a much-needed win ending the hosts’ unbeaten run in the Premiership.
Below are the Rangers players rated in their 2-0 win against St Mirren.
Jack Butland: 7
After a difficult past few days, the Rangers custodian enjoyed a comfortable outing with little threat from the ten-man Saints.
James Tavernier: 8
Made no mistake from the spot to earn his side a first-half lead. Played his part in the build-up of Abdallah Sima’s goal. The question remains whether he would fulfil his defensive responsibilities under adverse circumstances.
Connor Goldson: 7.5
His powerful header was stopped by Zachary Hemming minutes after Tavernier’s goal. Looked composed with his passing and distribution while playing it out from the back.
John Souttar: 7.5
Returned to the starting XI replacing Ben Davies. Dominated the duels, and made no-nonsense clearances while partnering with Goldson in the heart of the backline.
Borna Barisic: 7.5
Made marauding runs from the left. Whipped in crosses and passes into the final third. Lost a few challenges but was effective with his balanced approach between attack and defence.
John Lundstram: 7
Was largely disappointing against Aris. The Light Blues lack enough options deep down the midfield, also, Ryan Jack’s injury saw the Englishman retaining his starting status in Paisley. Failed with his dribbling attempts, got dribbled past twice and lost the majority of duels, but he made swift recoveries and showed excellent passing ability to stage attacking threats from the middle of the park.
Jose Cifuentes: 7
Worked hard in midfield to regain and retain possession. Made some down-the-middle runs to operate in the advanced areas of the pitch. Made some tactical fouls to break down the opponents’ rhythm.
Nicolas Raskin: 7.5
Lively with his movements and link-up play. Set it up for Sima who doubled the lead midway through the second half. Won the majority of duels and was spot-on with his tackles.
Zak Lovelace: 6
A bright start from the teenage sensation with his pace, swift runs and flashy skills. Was forced to leave the pitch late in the first half after sustaining an injury. Ross McCausland replaced him for the remainder of the contest.
Abdallah Sima: 8
Continues his exquisite scoring streak with a neat first-time finish. Caused menace down the flank with his dribbles and directness.
Kemar Roofe: 6
Deployed as a ‘number 9′ but remained isolated high up the pitch. Failed to threaten Hemming in the Saints’ goal and was taken off for Cyriel Dessers around the hour mark.
Rangers Subs vs St Mirren
Ross McCausland: 6.5
Impressed with his creative spark in and around the attacking third.
Cyriel Dessers: 6.5
Was denied by Hemming in the closing minutes of the match.