Rangers travelled to Stade Josy Barthel to banish the blues from 2017 where they succumbed to a 2-0 defeat resulting in an embarrassing exit for the Glaswegian giants. However, the team this time under Gerrard got the job done as they held on to a goalless draw. Thus, Rangers went through to the third round by two goals to nil.
Both teams lacked quality in the final third, but one has to say that Progres were the better side in the first half as some good chances fell to them. Rangers were especially sloppy in the first 20 minutes as the Gers were giving the ball away far too easily. Arfield though came close to scoring, but he only managed to hit the post.
The away team controlled the game for most parts in the second half. Rangers had their chances to win the game, but they fluffed their lines in the last 15 minutes of the game. The tie was a sloppy game of football from both the sides and Gerrard wouldn’t be particularly delighted with the display even though they booked their place in the next round.
Here is how the Gers fared.
Allan McGregor 6
Made one error as he failed to palm the ball away from the danger area. Apart from that, dealt with whatever little that came his way.
Nikola Katic 6
Still seems like a work in progress after a year at the club. Came close to scoring from set-pieces. Didn’t exactly look assured at the back as he was caught out of position sometimes.
Connor Goldson 7
Had a great scoring opportunity which he missed in the second half. Defensively did a fine job to see out a clean sheet.
Borna Barisic 5.5
Francoise troubled him on occasions, and the Croatian got booked early on. Was substituted in the second half.
James Tavernier 7
Usually known for his attacking exploits, Tavernier did a fine job at the back to help keep a clean sheet. A solid overall display.
Ryan Jack 6
Disrupted play here and there but couldn’t produce much quality when he found himself in possession.
Scott Arfield 7
Worked hard like always and pressed well off the ball. Made some smart movements and came close to scoring but his shot just grazed the post.
Glen Kamara 6
Kept the ball well but wasn’t too incisive with his passing. Could have been a bit braver on the ball.
Joe Aribo 7
Should have again got himself on the score sheet like the last game. Made some good runs and moved the ball well. Looked tired as the game went on.
Sheyi Ojo 7
Made some good runs but was highly ineffective in the final third with his finishing and final ball. Had a great chance to assist and score late on in the game. Nevertheless, his work-rate and attacking endeavour should be applauded.
Jermain Defoe 6
Failed to get involved much in the game. His team-mates didn’t help him either as there was an acute lack of service.
Substitutes
Andy Halliday 5
Provided fresh legs on the pitch. However, was caught out of position a few times as he seemed a bit too eager to win back possession.
Greg Docherty N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
Alfredo Morelos N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
