Celtic have already secured the Premiership silverware last week defeating Aberdeen. But the contest this afternoon was a matter of prestige for Neil Lennon’s men who locked horns with age-old rivals Rangers at the Ibrox. The Gers showcased improvement under Steven Gerrard but failed to claim the title glory yet again similar to the previous two terms. They were determined to salvage something from this season and spoil the Hoops’ party by grabbing a win utilising the home ambience.
The ten-men Bears suffered late heartbreak at Celtic Park in the last Old Fim derby, but they reacted incredibly this time around and registered a magnificent 2-0 win in front of the jubilant Ibrox crowd to script revenge against their Glasgow rivals.
Below are the Rangers players rated in their commanding win against Celtic.
Wes Foderingham: 7
Earned a rare start between the sticks in place of the suspended Allan McGregor. Was barely tested as the visitors failed to threaten enough barring one late occasion which forced the custodian to make a strong save to deny Oliver Burke.
James Tavernier: 8.5
The skipper made a late howler back in March allowing the Hoops to clinch a 2-1 win at Parkhead. But he led his side astoundingly this afternoon as his stunning free-kick earned the hosts an early lead before the Bhoys could settle in the game. Kept on making his trademark runs from the right flank and played his part in the attacking third with timely crosses, one-twos and set-pieces.
Connor Goldson:8
Had a towering presence in the heart of the Rangers backline. Did not allow Odsonne Edouard to cause enough menace as he maintained superiority in and around the box.
Nikola Katic: 7.5
Partnered Goldson in a central defensive role and kept things calm, composed and under control in a fast-paced encounter. Was in the right place at the right time and never looked vulnerable while playing his part.
Jon Flanagan: 7
Has regained a starting role over Borna Barisic and Andy Halliday. Was combative, concentrated more on his duties at the back, and also made timely overlapping runs to combine with Ryan Kent from the left-hand flank.
Ryan Jack: 7.5
Scored the solitary goal in December’s Old Firm derby and delivered a dominating display this afternoon as well. Never let Celtic control the midfield game and kept on building up moves from a deeper role with his down the middle runs, passes and link-up play.
Glen Kamara: 9
Continued his fine form as he kept Scott Brown on his toes throughout. Assisted Arfield spectacularly to double the lead and depicted why he has been a fantastic addition to the Rangers ranks.
Scott Arfield: 8.5
Was brilliant once again in the attacking third. Kept on threatening the Hoops from the right flank and found the net sensationally to double the lead minutes after the hour mark. Made way for Daniel Candeias amid a standing ovation from the Ibrox crowd.
Steven Davis: 8
Excellent in a box-to-box role as he kept on winning duels, regained possession and distributed it upfront to maintain the immense pressure. Was taken off in the closing minutes to be replaced by Ross McCrorie.
Ryan Kent: 8
Was a constant threat down the left flank despite failing to find the net after coming so close on many occasions. His pace, strength and runs exposed Celtic at the back time and again.
Jermain Defoe: 8.5
Showed his experience while spearheading the Gers’ attack. Forced Scott Bain to make stops, also hit the woodwork from a tight angle. Played a smart dummy to make it easy for Arfield while doubling the scoreline. Made his way for Morelos late in the game.
Substitutes
Alfredo Morelos: 6.5
Was brought in place of Defoe. Kept the pressure on high up the pitch.
Daniel Candeias: 6.5
Helped the hosts maintain superiority until the final whistle.
Ross McCrorie: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
