Rangers opened their Europa League campaign at Ibrox against Dutch heavyweights Feyenoord where they secured a 1-0 win via a goal from Sheyi Ojo. Gerrard’s men were in the faces of their opposition from the start, and they pressed their opponents high up the pitch. Let us be honest, the sentiment from the passing away of late Rangers captain Fernando Ricksen definitely contributed to the mood.
Tavernier missed a spot-kick early on after a handball incident, but Rangers didn’t allow that moment to dampen their mood as they continued their ascendency. Ojo scored the opener with a thumping hit from 20 yards out. The first half ended at 1-0 for the home side, but it could have easily been more than that as Rangers had some great opportunities.
Rangers looked just a little bit tired in the second half, and Feyenoord enjoyed good spells of possession in the second 45. However, the Gers had some chances to kill the game, but they were unable to take them. In the end, Gerrard’s men hung on to a 1-0 win which gives them the three crucial points.
Here is how they fared on the night.
Rangers Players Rated In Their Crucial Win Against Feyenoord
Allan McGregor 7.5
Didn’t have too many saves to make but did his job when he was called into action. An assured display from the veteran as he made some crucial saves in the end.
Connor Goldson 6
Looked nervy and shaky on occasions. Can look to play much safer passes from the back. Did a decent job overall but looked vulnerable.
Filip Helander 7
Gerrard threw him in the big game, and the big summer signing didn’t disappoint. Like his partner had one or two shaky moments but held his own at the back to see out a cleansheet.
Borna Barisic 7
Provided the assist for the only goal as he won a 50-50 ball in a dangerous area. Has improved on the attacking front and Gerrard would be satisfied with the Croatian.
James Tavernier 7
Missed a spot-kick as he hit his shot wide. However, that didn’t deter him as he continued with his impressive work down the right.
Steven Davis 8.5
The orchestrator in the middle was at his best once again. Hardly put a foot wrong throughout the game. Always looking to get on the ball and kept on releasing it quickly. Reads the game brilliantly and is probably one of the most crucial players in the Rangers starting lineup right now.
Glen Kamara 7
Another big call from Gerrard to pick him over Aribo. However, Kamara did his job well as he moved the ball smartly and was in control whenever in possession. Played a role in pinning Feyenoord in their half in the opening 45.
Ryan Jack 8
Should have put the game to bed in the second half. However, apart from that, the Scotsman didn’t do much wrong as he worked hard and allowed Rangers to win the ball in dangerous areas. His link-up play was also worth mentioning.
Scott Arfield 7
Always looking to get in little pockets of space in the attacking third. Provided his usual tenacity and energy. Can avoid giving away some silly fouls.
Sheyi Ojo 8
Looked tired in the second half but his first-half performance was one to remember. Scored a brilliant goal and worked hard in closing down the opposition.
Alfredo Morelos 8
Didn’t score a goal but provided impressive work rate up the pitch as he pressed and harassed the opposition. Was at his usual feisty self and Feyenoord defenders had a hard time getting him off the ball. Could have been clinical with some half chances.
Substitutes
Joe Aribo N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
Brandon Barker 6
Provided energy and fresh legs after coming on.
Andy King N/A
Came on to run down the clock.
