Rangers 1-0 over Falkirk

In a very tight match, the Rangers overcame a very strong Falkirk side 1-0 with a goal by Andrius Velicka at the sixty-third minute. The match was precisely what the Gers needed as it was both challenging, had some heroics but also featured a lineup that said change is in the offing.

Starting with the striking combination of Andrius Velicka, Kris Boyd, the lesson is loud and clear from Walter Smith that the positions are up for grabs. Given injuries, new man Madjid Bougherra was introduced to the lineup and I hope the position stays his as you don’t break-up winning lineups.

The Rangers started with plenty of spirit and went at the home squad which reacted, predictably on their back-heels. It wasn’t until the twenty minute mark that Falkirk displayed their typical passing flare but when they did, their chances started to materialize. With a nil score at the half, the home squads confidence was perking up and creating more scoring opportunities.

Then at the fiftieth minutes with a penalty as Steven Whittaker brought down Kevin McBride in the area. With the tide seemingly to turn, Michael Higdon strode to take the penalty but unfortunately for him made one of most common errors in penalty-taking by opening up his body and easily keying the direction the shot was going and Allan McGregor easily saved it. A superb save indeed but truthfully it was a error that you rarely would see above the academy level and it cost Falkirk dearly. Roughly fifteen minutes later, Andrius Velicka on the verge of being substituted, netted the winning goal and from that point scoring opportunities by Falkirk drizzled away in the beautiful Scottish afternoon.

This was the start the Rangers needed. It wasn’t an easy win by any stretch and made them work for every blade of grass on the pitch. Lineups changes will be noted and veterans will know nothing is given. On the opposite side of the pitch I have to say Falkirk played a fine match, show tremendous promise and should be commended.

The irony of this sport never cease to amaze me as the Rangers face Vladimir Romanov Hearts next weekend. Saturdays can always be a wonderful day for payback.

Category: Team News

Tags: Team News

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