Rangers fans were put through the wringer last night as their side clawed back a shocking start to secure a dramatic 4-2 victory over Kilmarnock. It was the first game in charge for Barry Ferguson, and for the first half-hour, it looked like it might be a nightmare debut in the dugout. However, a bold defensive reshuffle and a stunning attacking display in the second half saw Rangers turn the game on its head.
Disastrous Start at Rugby Park
Rangers got off to the worst possible start, conceding two goals within the first 15 minutes. The entire backline looked in disarray, struggling with Kilmarnock’s physicality and sharp attacking play. Clinton Nsiala, in particular, found himself overwhelmed and lacking confidence, but in truth, any one of the defenders could have been taken off.
Ferguson, visibly frustrated on the sidelines, had seen enough by the half-hour mark and made a decisive change. Nsiala was withdrawn, with Ridvan Yilmaz coming on at right-back, pushing James Tavernier into the centre alongside Robbin Propper. The Dutchman was likely spared substitution due to his ability to play across the defensive line. The impact was immediate – suddenly, Rangers looked more composed at the back, and the fightback was on.
Rangers Roar Back into the Game
Just four minutes after the reshuffle, Hamas Igamane took a brilliant touch in midfield before being wiped out. Mohamed Diomande pounced on the loose ball and threaded a perfectly weighted pass to Vaclav Cerny, who slotted into the corner. Rangers were back in it at 2-1, and momentum had shifted.
The half-time team talk must have been ferocious, given Ferguson’s reputation for directness, and whatever was said, it worked. Rangers emerged in the second half with renewed energy and put in one of their best attacking displays of the season.
Dessers Leads the Charge
Eight minutes after the restart, Rangers levelled. Tavernier’s corner found Propper battling in the box, occupying defenders and creating space for Cyriel Dessers, who headed home from six yards. His relief was evident, as was the jubilation of his teammates and the travelling Rangers fans.
Less than ten minutes later, Dessers was at it again. Spotting space behind the Kilmarnock defence, he signalled to Yilmaz, who delivered a sublime lofted pass over the top. Dessers met it in full stride and rifled home a side-footed finish into the corner. It was a goal of real quality, both in the vision of Yilmaz and the precision of the striker’s finish.
Bajrami Seals the Win
Kilmarnock weren’t done yet, and Butland had to make a sharp save low down to preserve Rangers’ lead. With the hosts throwing bodies forward, Ferguson’s men struck the killer blow in the 85th minute. A quick counterattack saw Diomande drive through the middle with Bajrami and Cerny flanking him. The Ivorian midfielder timed his pass to perfection, finding Bajrami, who squeezed his shot between the goalkeeper’s legs. The deflection sent it spinning into the top corner, securing the points.
Man of the Match: Cyriel Dessers
Dessers was frustrating in the first half, missing good chances, but he turned it around brilliantly after the break. His hold-up play improved, he linked the attack superbly, and his second goal was a moment of real quality.
Honourable mentions must go to Diomande, Raskin, and Tavernier, all of whom recovered from the dreadful opening spell to put in top performances.
After the match, Ferguson spoke of his pride in the team’s response, praising their character and desire to turn the game around. If this is a sign of things to come under his leadership, Rangers fans could be in for an exciting ride.