Tawanda Maswanhise has exploded onto the Scottish Premiership scene this season and Rangers must take him seriously at Ibrox. The Motherwell forward has delivered goals, energy and constant threat from wide and central areas. Moreover, his movement unsettles defenders and his confidence grows with every finish. Rangers face a genuine problem in Tawanda Maswanhise when Rangers arrive at Fir Park
His Breakout Season
Maswanhise has transformed from a promising attacker into Motherwell’s main weapon. He has hit double figures in the league and leads their scoring charts. Furthermore, he earned player of the month recognition after a ruthless scoring streak. That run proved no fluke. Instead, he now punishes hesitation and converts half chances with conviction.
He thrives on transitions. Consequently, he exploits space behind full backs and drives directly at centre halves. He also shoots early and often. Therefore, defenders cannot afford to stand off him. Rangers must understand that he attacks with purpose every time he collects possession.
In addition, he links play well. He drifts wide before darting inside. He presses defenders and forces rushed clearances. As a result, Motherwell sustain pressure higher up the pitch.
His Style And Threat
Maswanhise combines pace with sharp footwork. He carries the ball at speed and commits opponents. However, he also reads rebounds and loose balls inside the box. That instinct brings ugly goals as well as spectacular ones.
He prefers to isolate a defender. Then he drops a shoulder and cuts inside onto his stronger foot. Moreover, he varies his runs cleverly. Sometimes he stays wide to stretch the back line. At other times he darts between centre halves and attacks the near post.
Importantly, he shows hunger. He presses aggressively and chases lost causes. Consequently, he unsettles defenders who lack composure. Rangers defenders must stay calm and disciplined against Maswanhise.
What Rangers Must Do
Firstly, Rangers must deny him space in behind. The back line must hold shape and avoid reckless advances. Furthermore, the midfield must screen passes into his feet. If he receives the ball facing goal he will shoot.
Secondly, Rangers must double up quickly. The full back cannot face him alone. Instead, the nearest winger must track back and close angles. That teamwork limits his cutting runs.
Thirdly, Rangers must attack with authority. Sustained pressure pins him deeper and reduces his influence. When Rangers dominate possession they force Motherwell to defend. Consequently, Maswanhise spends less time in dangerous areas.
Finally, discipline remains vital. Rangers cannot gift cheap free kicks around the box. Maswanhise thrives on chaos. Therefore, structure and concentration will stop Tawanda Maswanhise from dictating the contest.
If Rangers execute this plan they will blunt Motherwell’s sharpest blade. However, any lapse invites punishment. This is a test of focus, strength and tactical maturity at Ibrox.