Rangers were once again left ruing defensive lapses as Dundee United came from behind to lead and eventually claim a point at Ibrox. Interim boss Stevie Smith’s side showed flashes of promise, particularly in a dominant first half, but old habits resurfaced to undo the good work. Here are the seven key takeaways.
More freedom and intent - especially early on
There was noticeably more tactical freedom in the first half, with Oliver Antman and James Tavernier both driving forward aggressively down the flanks. Joe Rothwell operated higher up the pitch and started brightly, linking well with the midfield before fading badly after the interval, and arguably stayed on far too long with his fitness remaining a big issue from a player touted as one of our key summer arrivals.
Rangers overall play was sharper, with good one-twos and more bodies committed forward, but sloppiness in possession remained an issue. Cheap giveaways, including a late error from Jayden Meghoma at 2-2 that nearly led to a late United winner, underlined the fragility in key moments.
At half-time, Rangers had 77% possession and 24 shots, but only one goal to show for it and that inability to put the game to bed would hurt us again in the end.
Defensive issues remain the glaring weakness
United’s first equaliser came from a familiar problem: a low cutback across the box not being dealt with and Kristijan Trapanovski being afforded too much space. Craig Sibbald’s second was another excellent strike, but again Rangers’ defending was disorganised and passive after a good save from the once again impressive Jack Butland.
It’s the same recurring issue, a lack of tenacity and awareness, that the incoming manager must make his top priority to fix. Still no league clean sheet this season after nine fixtures tells its own story.
Fan frustration on full show
Discontent in the stands was evident. A banner from the Union Bears in the first half expressed anger at the players, this was followed by mixed chants from both home and away sections of the crowd, while later a separate message from the Sandy Jardine Stand directed at the under-fire duo of sporting director Kevin Thelwell and CEO Patrick Stewart received a more positive reception.
Tensions in the stands grew louder after United’s second, with grumbles and chants reflecting growing frustration at the club’s direction, or lack thereof.
Set pieces are still a sore spot
Rangers remain toothless from set pieces. Early deliveries from Tavernier and Rothwell caused little danger, while at the other end United won multiple headers in the box from corners and free kicks. It’s an area that continues to cost Rangers both control and confidence, albeit not today.
Aasgaard announces himself
After offering little under sacked head coach Russell Martin, Thelo Aasgaard finally introduced himself to Ibrox in style. His superb curling strike into the top corner was a moment of genuine quality. the highlight of Rangers’ afternoon. The Norwegian went close twice more before half-time, showing the aggression and confidence that had been missing from his game. A far cry from the player who did not look capable of even passing forward never mind shooting just weeks ago.
Mikey Moore makes an impact
Late substitute Mikey Moore showed excellent control and composure to bring down a long ball, hold off his man, and lay it off perfectly for Tavernier to slot home for 2–2. It was an intelligent, composed piece of play that earned Rangers a draw they barely deserved by that stage despite their excellent first half showing.
On-loan Spurs wonderkid Moore has been under intense pressure from the Ibrox support after a lacklustre start to his spell at Rangers but started the road back to stardom with a decent late showing.
Still no 90-minute performance
We say this after every match but once again the contrast between halves remains glaring, this time we were dominant before the break, disjointed and passive after it in a 180 switch from the latter days of Martin’s reign.
With only one recognised left-back in the squad and John Souttar miles off his best form, structural issues persist.
That’s now six draws in eight league games. And just the single win away to Livingston, a statistic that sums up where Rangers are right now: stuck between potential and mediocrity. Kevin Muscat looks set to take the top job at Ibrox, but with his start date delayed, will it be too late?