Rangers’ giant win v Celtic – match ratings

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Rangers’ giant win v Celtic – match ratings


Rangers managed a stunning Old Firm win against all the odds today, and here’s your traditional Ibrox Noise ratings for a giant win which may just have hauled Steven Gerrard’s men back into the title reckoning:

McGregor:

He’s been in some slightly better form lately, and in this one he was assured, quick to come off the line (his one on one save from Edouard was staggering) and led by example. Had no chance with the deflected opener. At least two game-winning saves. Outstanding. 10

Tavernier:

Defied his recent troubles to put in a superb shift, covering every blade of grass and defending stoutly. His assist for Morelos’ winner was pinpoint and while he did go slightly quiet early in the second half, overall Tavernier showed he can still rise to the big occasions. 9

Goldson:

A strong display from a stopper who’s had his critics, Goldson mopped up almost all aerial balls and demonstrated a vastly-improved understanding with Niko Katic. His 76th minute duel with Brown was hairy, but he showed good reading and positioning. A fine performance. 9

Katic:

Bang on time to get back in form, Katic ended up decked twice but never stopped working. His marking of Edouard was great bar the one time the Frenchman got away, but Katic worked well with Goldson to tighten Rangers’ recently leaky rearguard. 9

Barisic:

His cross for the opener was wonderfully weighted, and Celtic had no joy attack wise down his side. He looked confident, and clearly was inspired by his performance at Parkhead. He can finish off the season with vigour after this outing. 9

Davis:

Another one who picked a good time to get his form back, the NI man was quick in mind and body – worked hard to pick out good passes, and always seemed to find the right man. Defensively solid enough but that’s never really been his game. Dictated tempo a lot. 9

Jack:

A shock starter, Jack showed the old Jack – the one who never stops working and supports attack as well as defence. Led well and took the opening goal so brilliantly from Barisic’s cross. 9

Hagi:

His first proper outing in his 10 position and he thrived. Celtic’s defence couldn’t pick him up, with his movement top drawer, and threaded a few excellent through balls which on another day could have seen a cricket score. A fine display with fine attitude. 9

Kent:

Always loves playing against Celtic, denied by the post, bar and Forster. In that order. Couldn’t have done more and was a terror against their backline. 9

Jones:

Gerrard’s unconventional announcement yesterday that Jones would start this one seemed to inspire the winger, and he looked menacing. Swapped and changed with Kent, beat men, and on another day his shot from the edge of the box would have been a stunning goal, but for a better save from Forster. Surely he’s a starter now. 10

Morelos:

Looked like he actually wanted to be here for the first time in a long time, and yes, he finally got his goal v Celtic, and it was the winner. Was constantly in Celtic’s face, giving Simunovic an especially tough afternoon. Should have had a penalty on 65 minutes, but he won’t mind that now. 10

Subs:

Arfield:

Added a little composure to stop Celtic making a concerted comeback in the final 15 minutes. Professional. 7

Manager:

Steven Gerrard nailed the tactics with this one – he’s been under pressure lately, but this time he showed Parkhead was no fluke and the players are on side. His Jones tactic was left field but worked, and putting Hagi in the right position paid dividends. This played like a Rangers team and won like one. 10.

NB: Just a little fun…

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