Rangers received a significant boost ahead of hosting Lyon tonight in their Europa League group stage encounter. Connor Goldson was declared fit to start the game.
Although the Gers were dominating the show in the first half, a stunner from Karl Toko Ekambi against the run shifted the momentum midway through the first half. They could not regain their composure after the break, and an unlucky own goal from James Tavernier ruined their night.
Below are the Rangers players rated in their disappointing 2-0 defeat against Lyon.
Allan McGregor: 6
Could have done nothing to stop Ekambi’s stellar strike. Made a great stop to deny Houssem Aouar before the ball bounced favourably for Les Gones prior to Tavernier’s own goal.
James Tavernier: 6.5
The skipper tried to make things work in attack with his overlapping runs. However, the headstrong defending from the visitors refrained him from whipping in crosses and cutting inside from the right-hand flank. Conceded an own goal as the ball went in off him from Goldson’s clearance. Hit the woodwork from a free kick.
Connor Goldson: 6.5
Has not been in the best of form recently, yet he showed resilience and composure with timely tackles, blocks, clearances and recoveries. Had some difficulties against Ekambi’s pace and flair down the right.
Leon Balogun: 7.5
Was in the right place at the right time alongside Goldson in the heart of the backline. Tried to play it out from the back and carried the ball forward to stage swift attacking moves. Won the duels against Slimani in the defensive third.
Borna Barisic: 6
His marauding runs, crosses and link-up play with Ryan Kent led to a few chances. Was nutmegged by Lucas Paquetá on one occasion, which could have doubled Lyon’s lead if Malo Gusto had kept his effort on target.
Steven Davis: 6
Featured from the deep as their chief ball carrier, but his lack of pace slowed down the tempo allowing Lyon to reorganize themselves in the middle of the park. Was taken off to make way for Scott Wright around the hour mark.
John Lundstram: 7
Much improved display from the ex-Sheffield United star who is still attuning to the Scottish surroundings. Made some down the middle runs and operated in the advanced areas in search of the equaliser. Had an underwhelming second half as he could not take charge of the midfield game.
Glen Kamara: 6.5
Composed as always. Hardly put a foot wrong while anchoring the game with his distribution, technical traits and vision. Played slightly deeper than usual, particularly after Davis’ exit.
Joe Aribo: 5.5
Was deployed down the right as part of Rangers’ frontline. Did not offer much except for a few one-twos and was shifted to his usual midfield role following Wright’s inclusion down the wing. Got substituted late in the match for Fashion Sakala.
Ryan Kent: 5
Forced Anthony Lopes to make a great save in the first half, but the wide attacker was at fault for both of Lyon’s goals. The attacks originated by dispossessing him in dangerous areas. Was forced to leave the pitch with a hamstring injury to make way for Kemar Roofe midway through the second half.
Alfredo Morelos: 6
Was closely marked by Jerome Boateng and Jason Denayer. Worked hard to play his part in the build-ups. Nevertheless, the Colombian failed to leave any significant impact.
Rangers Substitutes Vs Lyon
Scott Wright: 6
Added more pace down the flank. Tried to put pressure on the defenders with his runs and chases.
Kemar Roofe: 6
Whipped in a few crosses, linked up at times with Morelos. Could not make much of a difference either.
Fashion Sakala: 6
Had a few promising moments high up the pitch since replacing Aribo.
