“Stood up to the challenge – 7” – Rangers players ratings v PSV

Rangers were held to a draw tonight by a PSV side who proved as strong as we expected, and Ibrox Noise brings you our ratings on an intriguing night as the Champions League theme returned to Govan:

McLaughlin:

We’ve been harder than most on the goalie, and while he does at times look like a rookie who’s never played at this level before (well, he actually hasn’t) he made a couple of MASSIVE saves which may prove key in this tie. 7

Tavernier:

A better performance than what he produced in Seville, Tav seemed a lot less nervous at this kind of marquee level, and worked on getting as much done in an attacking sense as he could, but again, his rear end (forgive the pun) was exposed a lot and PSV did have a lot of control of his flank. However he nailed the key assist for Rangers’ opener. 7

Goldson:

Another disaster for Goldson at this level, his new deal just looks like a complete waste of time – exposed horrendously for both goals, that’s now 5 Rangers have conceded in Europe hugely in part to his incompetence. Just after we praised him at the weekend, normal Goldson returns. 4

Sands:

As much as fans hate this kid, he really did little wrong. Sure, a couple of positional gaffes, but he’s 22, and still learning. He didn’t make any major errors and certainly didn’t cost any goals. 6

Barisic:

Looked a bit weak as the match went on and PSV started to expose his flank and seemed unsteady in the second half, after a decent first half. Not much linkup with Kent or indeed anyone else. 5

Lundstram:

A couple of minor wobbles aside, Lunny was strong again, but was held back by his partner a little. Had to cover more grass than he usually would but stood up to the challenge. 7

Davis:

His age finally got exposed at this level – we were very surprised he was named, and he was guilty of two huge errors. Wasn’t able to cover the ground much and was taken off into the second half. 5

Kent:

Kent was marshalled expertly by Teze who mostly batted him away with ease. Wasn’t able to dominate like he did v Dortmund and was left mostly snuffed out. 5

Lawrence:

A surprising amount of defending from the attacker, Lawrence played very well even if he wasn’t overly influential as an attacking threat. But his free kick was a huge goal even if the goalie was 100% to blame for it. 7

Tillman:

A very patchy match from the American, was an incredibly bright spark for so much of it but a lot of his decision making was very poor indeed – guilty of ball hogging a couple of times and not looking up. But was still Rangers’ main attacking threat. 6

Colak:

Was a willing worker all night but didn’t get a lot of service – the two chances he got, he forced a decent save, and of course scored. He is doing everything he can with what he has. 7

Subs:

Kamara:

Didn’t really add very much to the match, but was clearly deemed a better option by Gio over Jack. 5

Wright:

Looked absolutely short at this level and like he was completely out of his depth. 4

Manager:

Overall Gio will feel his side could have done more – but he is also aware they were up against a physically big and strong side who can play. Rangers did well not to be bullied, but didn’t really exploit home advantage enough, and we’re puzzled at the lack of attacking nous and not bringing Morelos on. We’re also more than a little frustrated that a second manager in a row will not drop Connor Goldson ever. 6