Rangers might not have much to play for, but they have managed three impressive back to back wins now. They defeated Hearts of Midlothian by 3 goals to 1 at the Tynecastle Stadium to delay Celtic’s title celebrations.
Gerrard’s men clearly looked the better side in the first 45 as they played with intent and energy. Glen Kamara found Jermain Defoe with a brilliant pass for the first goal after the Jambos gave the ball away in a dangerous area. Rangers added more buffer to the scoreline as Daniel Candeias found Ryan Jack in open space as the midfielder finished well in front of goal to give the away side a two goal advantage before the break.
Nikola Katic scored the third early on in the second half to put the game to bed. Steve MacLean scored for the home side in the 74th-minute mark which was only a consolation at the end.
Allan McGregor 7
Had a comfortable first half as Hearts barely threatened. Made a terrific save in the second half from Wighton’s header. Couldn’t have done much to prevent the goal.
Nikola Katic 7
Score from close range just after half time as he anticipated Candeias’ ball well. Did his job defensively for most of the afternoon.
Connor Goldson 7
Was untroubled for most parts of the game. Distributed the ball well and looked calm and composed.
Jon Flanagan 7
Played a crucial role in the first goal as he won the ball in a dangerous area and Kamara found Defoe to give the away side a lead. Looked assured in defence and worked hard.
James Tavernier 7
Like always, provided an attacking outlet down the right. His crossing was more or less on point throughout the game. Defensively too he had a comfortable day.
Ryan Jack 8
Finished well for the goal. Covered a lot of ground in midfield and made a few smart runs in and around the box. Did everything which could be asked from a midfielder.
Steven Davis 7
Controlled the game from the middle of the park as he was calm in possession. Definitely making a case for a permanent contract in the summer.
Glen Kamara 8
Found Defoe with an inch-perfect ball for the first goal. Bossed the midfield areas as he always provides an option to his team-mates. ‘Cruise control’ is the perfect way to describe his performance today.
Scott Arfield 6
Had a couple of chances in front of goal but wasn’t at his clinical best like the last game. Nevertheless, looked impressive in the attacking role.
Daniel Candeias 6.5
Had a mixed bag of a game. Picked up two assists but also disappointed on various occasions in the final third.
Jermain Defoe 7
Could have got a brace but did enough in the end as he scored the opener after which Rangers controlled the game.
Substitute
Glenn Middleton N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
Kyle Lafferty N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
Matt Polster N/A
Didn’t have much time to make an impact but made his debut.
