Barry Ferguson’s Rangers Era Begins with Hard-Fought Battle at Rugby Park
Barry Ferguson would have preferred a more forgiving start to his tenure as Rangers manager than a challenging away fixture against Kilmarnock. However, the difficult trip to Rugby Park did not influence his decision to take the job.
With only one training session to prepare, Ferguson had limited time to implement his ideas, but his side delivered a spirited performance. Here’s how the Rangers players fared in their encounter with Kilmarnock.
Rangers Player Ratings vs Kilmarnock
Rangers have endured struggles away from home throughout the season, and this fixture marked their final visit to Ayrshire. Here’s a breakdown of their individual performances:
- Jack Butland – 6
Had little chance with either of Kilmarnock’s goals, as he was let down by his defense. The constant rotation of center-backs in front of him hasn’t helped his confidence. Pulled off a crucial save at 3-2 as Kilmarnock ramped up the pressure. - Jefte – 7
A cautious first half saw him playing it too safe and hesitating in challenges. However, he was much improved after the break, getting forward more effectively and providing attacking width. Defended well when called upon. - James Tavernier – 9
Remarkably, the 33-year-old right-back was Rangers’ most reliable center-half. Moved centrally after half an hour and immediately brought stability. His leadership at the back could warrant a more permanent role in central defense. - Robin Propper – 2
A nightmare performance. Frequently bypassed midfield by launching hopeful balls forward, struggled in duels, and left his runners unmarked. Was fortunate not to be substituted instead of Clinton Nsiala. Kilmarnock targeted him throughout, and he never looked comfortable. - Clinton Nsiala – 3
Taken off at halftime, but his performance wasn’t much better than Propper’s. Could have done more to prevent Kilmarnock’s second goal and looked in need of a rest. - Nicolas Raskin – 7
A solid shift, but his impact was limited by his defenders’ reluctance to pass him the ball. When involved, he helped orchestrate Rangers’ best spells of play. - Mohamed Diomande – 8
Struggled to influence the game in the early stages but grew into it. Provided two assists, including a crucial pass for Vaclav Cerny’s goal. Needs to demand the ball more to showcase his creativity consistently. - Ianis Hagi – 5
Industrious but lacked his usual cutting edge. Tried to link up with Hamza Igamane but was hindered by a lack of overlapping runs from Jefte. - Vaclav Cerny – 6
Finished his goal well but missed opportunities to create for teammates in the first half. At times, overthought his decisions in the final third. - Hamza Igamane – 7
Displayed strong work ethic and intensity. Tested the keeper with a spectacular effort at 0-0 but was guilty of complicating promising attacking moves. - Cyriel Dessers – 8
Should have converted at least one of his first-half chances but made up for it with a well-timed run for Rangers’ second goal. Sealed the win with a stunning volley for his 20th goal of the season.
Substitutes
- Ridvan Yilmaz – 8
Despite only playing the final 20 minutes, he was arguably Rangers’ best performer in the first half. Brought composure and attacking intent, capping his cameo with a brilliant assist for Dessers. - Tom Lawrence – 6
Played deeper in midfield and had limited opportunities to impact the game. - Nedim Bajrami – 7
Added energy and attacking drive, rewarded with a goal for Rangers’ fourth. - Ross McCausland – 6
Introduced late and didn’t have enough time to leave a mark.
Final Thoughts
Ferguson’s first game in charge showcased resilience and attacking intent, despite defensive frailties. With more time on the training ground, he will look to fine-tune his squad as Rangers push forward under new leadership.
