Wanderers had been expecting a stroll in the park against struggling Motherwell at Fir Park, but they got off to a bad start as in-form Kevin van Veen gave the hosts a surprise lead a few minutes from kick-off. It was a rollercoaster ride for the Gers, however, after Bevis Mugabe’s second-half equalizer they ended up with goals from Todd Cantwell and Malik Tillman. 4-2 win.
Here’s how the Rangers players rated against Motherwell.
Ellen McGregor: 5.5
It’s time for Light Blues to find a solution between the sticks. McGregor is not the player he was a few years ago when his slow reflexes and lack of movement cost them the second goal.
James Tavernier: 8.5
The fantastic captain led by example again, not only leveling the score with a superb free-kick, but also setting the perfect stage for stylish Saqqara to take the lead soon after the break. Should have done better defensively a few times, especially against set pieces and long balls. Almost missed a second free kick in the final minutes of the game.
Connor Goldson: 6.5
A good chance to score was wasted, but the centre-back had a tense moment in the deep defense against Van Veen. Twice eliminated and also failed to win the duel under pressure.
Ben Davis: 7.5
He was spot on with his tackles, made a series of recoveries, dominated duels and maintained decent pass accuracy throughout the game.
Ridwan Yilmaz: 7
Ryan Jack: 8
Solid in the middle of the park, blocking, challenging and recovering in time. Did a good job of regaining possession in midfield and getting into the final third with runs, dribbles and passes through the middle.
John Lundstram: 6.5
Forced a strong save from Kelly, but was again mediocre in the middle of the pitch. Mugabe must be held accountable for the goal, his creativity and vision completely lost when the home side defended deep and mounted quick counter-attacks.
Todd Cantwell: 8
Life in Scotland got off to a slow start, but the Englishman proved to be exceptional through clever one-twos, coordinated play and flexibility in midfield. His only field goal before Cantwell’s insurance strike gave the visitors a 3-2 lead. Replaced by Glen Kamara late in the game.
Trendy Saqqara: 7.5
His header was perfectly timed to make it 2-1 after a brilliant pass from Tavernier. He kept Motherwell’s defense on his toes before making way for Malik Tillman around 65 minutes, and he was active on the wing.
Ryan Kent: 7.5
A fine play with Alfredo Morelos culminated in Tillman’s first effort into the top corner. Couldn’t beat Kelly on goal, but he kept creating chances of his own with quick runs, flashy skills and dribbling.
Antonio Colac: 6
Another sub-par performance from the Croatian, failing to find the target again and again. The frontcourt looked isolated, leaving the Morelos Stadium midway through the second half.
Rangers v Motherwell
Alfredo Morelos: 7.5
Tillman was set up for him shortly after his introduction.
Malik Tillman: 7.5
There was no doubt that he received a pass from Morelos and found the back of the net within minutes of his arrival.
Scott Arfield: 7
His ability to pass and handle the ball calms things down.
Glenn Kamara: 6.5
Was added to the midfield to infuse fresh legs.
John Sutta: 6.5
Was brought in to defend a two-goal lead.
