Rangers turned in a superb performance last night at Ibrox to put themselves in pole position to advance to the UEFA Champions League playoff round.
Russell Martin’s side bounced back from Saturday’s disappointing draw with Motherwell to defeat Czech side Viktoria Plzen 3-0.
A Cyriel Dessers penalty was sandwiched between two Djeidi Gassama goals to ensure the Gers headed into the second leg with an imperious lead.
Here are 8 takeaways from the match.:
Natural Full-Backs, Natural Flow
Rangers’ play looked far more fluid with natural-sided full-backs in the starting XI.
Max Aarons replaced James Tavernier at right back, switching from left back with Jefte returning to the starting side on the left-hand side.
The balance allowed the team to stretch the pitch, creating more natural angles in possession and improving the build-up from the back.
Aarons had by far his best match in a Rangers jersey before a dead leg late on seen the skipper come on to replace him. The on loan Bournemouth man played a fantastic pass for Oliver Antman in the build up to the third goal, whilst Jefte had a good performance despite some poor play in possession at times.
Martin’s Tactical Tweaks Pay Off – But Not Perfect
Russell Martin made notable changes from the weekend's draw, dropping Tavernier and Nico Raskin alongside Danilo and Kieran Dowell.
While the overall performance was vastly improved, there were still brief moments where Plzen found space through the centre. a reminder that the system remains a work in progress, but is starting to come together.
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Lyall Cameron Impresses
Thrown into the European spotlight, Cameron looked composed and confident.
Unlike Connor Barron’s struggles in a similar situation last season, Cameron didn’t appear out of his depth and contributed meaningfully in midfield making himself busy and looking positive both in and out of possession.
A SPFL player who looks ready and capable for the step up.
Antman the Menace
Rangers' new signing was electric down the flank. He consistently got to the byline, broke in behind, and outpaced his markers.
His perfect cross set up Gassama’s second goal, and he won the penalty converted by Dessers with a great solo drive into the area. A constant threat all night and the perfect start for the Finnish international.
Djiga the Defensive Colossus
In the heart of defence, Djiga was outstanding. Aerially dominant and assured on the ground, he marshalled the back line with authority, drove forward well at times and made several crucial interventions when Plzen threatened.
John Souttar, who started as captain, also looked much better and more composed, clearly growing with confidence with the big man beside him.
The Gassman Delivers Again
Djeidi Gassama continues his red-hot form. His movement, anticipation, and composed finishing made the difference, his brace giving Rangers a cushion heading into the second leg.
His understanding with both Antman and Dessers is developing quickly into a formidable front line.
Dessers Thrives in New Role
This system suits Dessers. Instead of being asked to constantly run in behind, he's now dropping deeper to link play and bring others into the game.
His hold-up work was superb, and he calmly converted from the spot to make it 2-0.
A Complete 90 Under Martin
For the first time under Russell Martin, Rangers produced a full 90-minute performance.
From start to finish, they controlled the tempo, dominated key areas of the pitch, and showed the kind of intensity fans have been crying out for.
This was the kind of performance Russell Martin has been building towards, controlled, confident, and clinical.
Rangers combined structure with flair, and crucially, maintained their level for the full 90 minutes.
With a 3-0 cushion heading to the Czech Republic, progression to the Champions League playoff round is firmly in their hands.
The challenge now is consistency and dominance domestically, but on this evidence, Martin’s Rangers are beginning to take shape.