Rangers hosted Villarreal at Ibrox and escaped with a crucial one point even though they played half of the game with ten men. The game ended 0-0, but it was as entertaining as a goalless encounter could be with both the teams full of intent and energy and trying to win the game until the final whistle.
The Gers were in the face of their opponents and pressing them with intensity and chasing every lost cause in the first half. They failed to create any clear-cut chances but certainly ruffled some feathers of their Spanish opponents. Villarreal’s Toko Ekambi had two clear-cut chances which came because of some sloppy mistakes from the home side, but McGregor in goal rescued his team. The turning point arrived late in the first half when Daniel Candeias picked up a second yellow for a foul he didn’t even commit.
The visiting side dominated the second half given the man advantage they had. Gerrard’s men gave everything they could, and for the effort and commitment, they certainly deserved that point.
Here is how the Bears fared against their Spanish opponents
Allan McGregor 10
Almost like a brick wall in goal right now as nothing seems to go past him. Had answers to everything that came his way and a man of the match performance from the veteran.
Joe Worrall 8
Made some crucial blocks and interceptions and a strong performance from the English youngster.
Connor Goldson 7
Had some nervous moments but overall he played a significant role in keeping the clean sheet.
Jon Flanagan 6.5
Was a big test for him defensively but held his ground well for the most parts. Had some sluggish moments in possession but a performance full of heart from the former Liverpool player.
James Tavernier 7.5
His attacking runs down the right seemed like the only way of getting out for the Gers in the second half. Top performance at the back from the captain who is often questioned about his defensive qualities.
Ryan Jack 6
Could have been much calmer in possession. Read the game well and shielded the back four for the most parts.
Lassana Coulibaly 5.5
Needs to be more composed on the ball and aware of his surroundings. Villarreal often nicked the ball from him in dangerous areas. Like all his team-mates, worked extremely hard in keeping the high press going in the first half.
Scott Arfield 7.5
The Canadian international was everywhere on the pitch and definitely put in a colossus performance, especially in the second half on the defensive front. Could have been much better on the ball though when breaking out.
Glenn Middleton 6
Blew hot and cold throughout the game. Delivered some dangerous corners. Scored a goal but was rightfully ruled offside. Needs to get smarter while defending.
Daniel Candeias 6
Can’t be blamed for the second yellow card as he didn’t do much wrong. However, if we are to nitpick we would say that he could have avoided that altercation knowing he was already on a yellow. Performance wise, he worked hard for the 45 minutes, and his pressing caused Villarreal players a lot of trouble.
Alfredo Morelos 7
Had to feed off scraps but made a nuisance of himself for the opposition defenders. Never gave them breathing space and held up the ball well whenever he could.
Substitutes
Kyle Lafferty 7
His introduction was breathtaking as he almost broke the deadlock with a long-range effort. Gave an out ball to McGregor in the later part of the game given his physical presence.
Ross McCrorie N/A
Was brought on to run down the clock.
