Unstoppable Rangers were supposed to undergo a tricky test on the road when they locked horns with high-flying Livingston this evening. Livi have punched above their weight under David Martindale, but the League Cup final defeat against St. Johnstone was indeed a heartbreak. They were determined to bounce back at the Tony Macaroni Arena against the runaway leaders but suffered yet another defeat when Alfredo Morelos spoiled their party in the closing minutes of the match.
Below are the Rangers players rated in their 1-0 win against Livingston.
Allan McGregor: 7
Was largely a spectator throughout as he rarely had to make a save due to the hosts’ lack of firepower high up the pitch.
Nathan Patterson: 6.5
Regained a place after his instant impact last midweek versus Antwerp. The young right fullback took a balanced approach but should have been more creative with his long balls and final deliveries while surging forward.
Connor Goldson: 7.5
Was solid defensively as he won the majority of duels and never allowed Gavin Reilly, Scott Robinson or Scott Tiffoney to threaten from in and around the Gers box. Found the net early into the second half, but his header was rightly disallowed for offside. Another attempt went off target minutes before Morelos’ winner.
Filip Helander: 7
His powerful header went just over the bar around the half-hour mark. Did well to partner Goldson and was in the right place at the right time to avoid defensive lapses or concentration.
Borna Barisic: 7
Was a constant threat with his overlapping runs and link-up play with Ryan Kent from the left-hand flank. Created a couple of chances but failed to make an impact with his set-pieces.
Steven Davis: 8
Controlled the show from his central midfield spot. Dictated the tempo with his vision and distribution and played his part in securing three more points minutes before the final whistle. His effort was denied expertly by Max Stryjek; however, Morelos made no mistake in putting the ball into the back of the net.
Scott Arfield: 6
Started the game brightly as he played his part in many attacking build-ups. Looked a bit predictable with time and was eventually taken off to be replaced by Cedric Itten midway through the second half.
Glen Kamara: 8
His relentless runs troubled Livingston and stopped them from gaining any momentum. Contributed sublimely in the build-up of the solitary goal of the game.
Joe Aribo: 7.5
Completed most of the dribbles as the versatile Nigerian covered a lot of ground and created an array of chances. His one-twos with Morelos and Itten often opened up space in an organised Livi defence.
Ryan Kent: 6.5
Has been in a majestic form of late but failed to offer much except a few ambitious runs and smart one-twos from the left. Made way for Bongani Zungu for the final few minutes.
Alfredo Morelos: 8.5
Should have been rewarded a penalty in the first half. Kept his calm, never gave up despite getting denied and exhibited his poaching instinct to be in the right place before finding the back of the net.
Rangers Substitutes Vs Livingston
Cedric Itten: 6
His physicality upfront put more pressure on the hosts late in the game.
Bongani Zungu: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
