Rangers vs Servette player ratings as Cantwell shows his worth
Rangers bounced back from defeat on the opening day of the Premiership season as taking a lead to Switzerland for the second leg of their third round Champions League qualifier with a 2-1 victory over Servette.
Ibrox was rocking within the first 20 minutes as the home side got off to an electric start through goals from James Tavernier and Cyriel Dessers.
But a failure to kill off the tie when the momentum was their favour gave the travelling support hope, and a needless hand ball by Dessers allowed Chris Bedia to pull one back just before half time from the penalty spot.
David Douline was sent off on the hour for a second bookable offence, but Rangers were unable to take advantage as a mixture of poor decision making in the final third and a couple of smart stops by the away goalkeeper ensured the game remained in the balance ahead of next week’s second leg.
Despite that, it was a much improved performance in spells from Rangers, especially when compared to Saturday.
With that being said, here are our player ratings for Rangers vs Servette
Jack Butland – 6
Had very little to do across the night but held on to any shot Servette through at him from long range in the first 45 minutes. No chance with the penalty.
James Tavernier – 6
Another European night penalty for the captain but still doesn’t look convincing defensively right now and final ball still lacking. Could have set up Lammers in the second half though.
Connor Goldson – 7
Working his way back to full defence but was commanding any time Servette looked to get on the front foot. Trademark long diagonal not yet found its range with new team mates,
John Souttar – 8
Bounced back from his error at Kilmarnock with a terrific display here. Brought the ball out from the back brilliantly to feed Barisic to assist the second goal. Often left as the deepest man for Servette counters but showed a good yard of pace and enjoyed the physical aspect.
Borna Barisic – 7
Played his best 45 minutes for Rangers in the first half as he rampaged up and down the left flank with ease and showed variation in his approach, both in terms of running inside and crossing. Set up goal for Dessers. Reverted back to type unfortunately in the second period.
Ryan Jack – 7
Playing in the deeper midfield role, Jack ticked things over effectively and moved the play quicker than Lundstram does. Couple of misplaced passes but an asset to the squad when fit.
Nico Raskin – 7
Pushed further up the pitch with Jack’s inclusion. Looked to drive Rangers forward at all time and should have got an assist for Lammers in the first half.
Todd Cantwell – 9
Why Cantwell didn’t start at Rugby Park baffles me after this display. Integral to everything good Rangers did as he was involved in every area of the pitch and won the Rangers penalty. Beginning to find his range linking with his new team mates. Remains Rangers’ main man.
Sam Lammers – 7
A better display from the Dutchman as he looked to offer a creative spark. Missed a sitter just before the Servette goal though although unlucky not to get one in the second half.
Cyriel Dessers – 7
Got his first Rangers goal and looked much sharper than he had up to this point. Close control still not quite up to his level yet though and this became more evident as he tired.
Danilo – 6
First start for the Brazilian and you could tell he is still trying to get up to speed with the squad as the ball was often stuck under his feet. Showed enough though to make it clear he will be a real asset when he gets up and running proper.
Subs
Abdallah Sima – 4
Jose Cifuentes – 5
Kieran Dowell – 4
Ianis Hagi – 3
Scott Wright – 2