Rangers fans left Ibrox with a mix of relief and frustration after a hard-fought 1-0 win against Hibernian. It wasn’t the commanding performance we saw midweek against Malmo, but in the end, it’s three points in the bag. Sometimes, that’s all that matters. But let’s be honest—this game raised more questions than it answered.
A Tough Watch for the Fans
From the start, it was clear this game wasn’t going to match the high-tempo, high-energy show we witnessed in Europe. Rangers struggled to break down Hibs, and while Tom Lawrence’s absolute screamer on 34 minutes gave us the lead, it didn’t come without controversy. The linesman flagged for offside, but after a lengthy VAR check, the goal stood. The problem? The flag meant we were robbed of that proper celebratory moment. Should the official have let it play out and allowed VAR to decide? Absolutely. That aside, the goal was worthy of winning any match—a curling beauty into the top corner.
But even after taking the lead, Rangers never really looked comfortable. Hibs were awarded a penalty just before halftime after a harsh handball call against John Souttar. Many fans and even the manager felt it was unjust, and there’s an argument to be made. Souttar did everything to make himself smaller, but the shot hit his arm. VAR reviewed it, and the penalty was given. Thankfully, Super Jack Butland stepped up. Not only did he save the penalty, but just moments earlier, he pulled off a stunning fingertip save to deny Hibs from distance. That was the real game-saver.
Tactical Tweaks that Didn’t Quite Work
Fans have been crying out for Hamza Igamane to get his first start, and today he got it. But the setup left him isolated. Bajrami, who’s been very good down the left, was dropped for McCausland, and it just didn’t click. McCausland, more comfortable on the right, drifted inside too often, leaving Jefte exposed and unsupported on the left wing. Hibs doubled up on Jefte, and we were lucky they didn’t punish us more in those transitions.
The right side wasn’t much better. Cerny and Tavernier still don’t seem to be on the same page. Tavernier, our captain and club legend, has been showing signs of wear. His lack of pace means Cerny is often left to track back, and while Cerny made some crucial defensive interventions, we need more from our right flank. Tavernier has been a fantastic servant, but something needs to change if we’re going to maintain balance on the wings.
Midfield Lacks Forward Drive
The absence of Diomande, who was spotted limping at the airport after the Malmo match, was a huge miss. Nico Raskin came in to partner Barron in midfield, and while they controlled the game at times, it wasn’t the same. Raskin, more cautious in his play, lacked the forward momentum Diomande brings. Kieran Dowell replaced him at halftime, and frankly, it was a mistake. Dowell struggled to make an impact, and we lost the midfield battle for large portions of the second half.
That said, Connor Barron deserves huge credit. He was everywhere—making tackles, controlling the tempo, and trying to link play forward. His work rate is unmatched, and while he missed his usual partner in Diomande, Barron was one of the few who could walk off the pitch with his head held high.
Butland – Back to His Best
We can’t finish without praising Jack Butland. He was immense. That fingertip save before the penalty was top-class, and then to save the penalty itself was the icing on the cake. It wasn’t the best penalty, but Butland guessed right, held onto the ball, and calmed the nerves. The fans showed their appreciation by belting out his song, and rightly so. He’s looking back to his best, and we’ll need him at his peak with Lyon coming to town on Thursday.
Defensive Shout-Out
The backline deserves credit too. Souttar and Propper were solid at the heart of the defense, and Jefte continues to impress on the left. Jefte’s performance earned him the man-of-the-match award, but for me, it could have easily gone to Barron. And while Propper was on the receiving end of a heavy challenge that could’ve seen a red card on another day, the new leniency in officiating meant a yellow was probably fair.
Looking Ahead to Lyon
So, while this performance was far from perfect, it’s another win, and we march on. There’s plenty to work on—particularly the partnerships on the wings and getting more support for our strikers. But with Diomande expected to be back for Lyon, we can hope for a return to the high-pressing, energetic football that’s been a joy to watch. Let’s keep the momentum going and get ready for a big European night at Ibrox.