In what started as a strange night for Rangers at Dens Park, it ended up being the side’s best result of the season so far as Philippe Clement’s team left Dundee with a 5-0 victory.
The match had to be delayed by 45 minutes after terrible weather across Scotland yesterday led to traffic problems around Dundee which meant the away side only arrived at the ground around 7.30pm.
Once the game eventually kicked off, further delays were encountered just two minutes in as referee Kevin Clancy had to take the players off the pitch for nearly 15 minutes after fireworks set off in the away end led to the fire alarm being triggered in the stadium.
But thankfully for Clement, his side took little time to get going once the match restarted as Ryan Jack opening the scoring after five minutes following good build-up play from Leon Balogun and Danilo.
From there, it proved to be a comfortable night for Rangers, and Brazilian striker Danilo would eventually put his side 2-0 up after having a handful of chances throughout the game, although his running off-the-ball caused problems all evening.
Struggling duo Sam Lammers and Cyriel Dessers, off the bench late on, would take a step to silencing their doubters with the third and fourth goals – Lammers’ goal in particular was an absolute beauty from 20 yards out – with skipper James Tavernier putting the icing on the cake with a last minute penalty.
With three wins from three in the league for Clement, and a League Cup semi final days away, here are the player ratings for Rangers vs Dundee.
Jack Butland – 7
A relatively quiet evening for the Rangers Number 1 although he had to make a terrific double save in the second half with the game at 2-0.
James Tavernier – 7
Little to do defensively but got up and down as much as usual and slotted home another penalty goal late on.
Connor Goldson – 6
Forced into making one last ditch tackle in the first half but untroubled throughout the game.
Leon Balogun – 7
Brought in from the cold for his first start since August, the veteran defender turned into peak Bougherra early on as his driving run forward led to the opener.
Dealt with any Dundee threat with ease.
Ridvan Yilmaz – 8
Much improved display from Ridvan here as he got up and down the pitch all night and his delivery into the box caused problems all night.
Building up a good relationship with Sima and whilst fans remain divided on him, he remains a much improved option compared to Barisic.
John Lundstram – 8
Looks to be relishing playing under Clement as he recycled any Dundee attack and looked to drive the side forward at any opportunity.
Brilliant run from deep in opposition half directly led to Lammers goal.
Ryan Jack – 7
Opened the scoring and looked tidy on the ball. Put himself into contention for Hampden on Sunday.
Scott Wright – 7
Much more positive with the ball as he looked to link up with Danilo and Lammers and he made a telling contribution in the lead up to Danilo’s goal. Could have a future under Clement on last night’s evidence.
Sam Lammers – 7
The first 60 minutes summed up his season as his passing looked slack again and struggled to make a telling impact.
But a super finish on 74 minutes seemed to reinvigorate him and a lovely pass to assist Dessers shows what a confidence player he is. Hopefully he builds on this.
Abdallah Sima – 6
Having been our best player in recent weeks, the winger had a quieter night as he struggled to make a telling impact on the match. Clever assist for Danilo though.
Danilo – 8
His movement off the ball caused all sorts of problems as Rangers look a much better outfit with him with him leading the line. Scored one but really should have bagged a handful.
Subs
Todd Cantwell – 6
Cyriel Dessers – 6
Jose Cifuentes – 5
Kieran Dowell – 4
Ross McCausland – 4