Full Time: Maribor 0-0 Rangers
Steven Gerrard’s Rangers kept their Europa League dream alive as they earned a 0-0 draw against Maribor.
In throwing up the shutters in Slovenia, Rangers kept a third clean sheet away from home in Europe this season. Maribor huffed and puffed for long spells but Rangers simply refused to yield.
It was a fantastic, ultra-defensive performance from Gerrard’s boys to see off the Slovenian outfit and set up a mouthwatering contest with Russian side FC Ufa.
Rangers Player Ratings
Allan McGregor – 9/10
McGregor was a class act on the night when everything he did was near spotless. He made an excellent stop from a fantastic Dervisevic free-kick and an outstanding stop to deny Marcos Tavares from point-blank range midway through the second period.
That wasn’t the end as the veteran goalkeeper capped off an incredible night by saving a last-minute penalty!
James Tavernier – 7/10
Tavernier was really solid defensively and while he rarely got a chance to get forward, he did so with real energy.
Andy Halliday – 7/10
Halliday was targeted by the Maribor attackers but he did very well to soak up the pressure and fight. He will be delighted with the shift he put in.
Connor Goldson – 7/10
Goldson has been a rock at the back for the Gers and once again, he stood up by showing his real defensive qualities. He looks every inch the player Rangers need in central defence.
Nikola Katic – 8/10
Just like his central defensive partner, Katic was excellent too. He is just 21 but has shown the maturity that clearly belies his age. What a signing he is proving to be for Gerrard!
Ryan Jack – 6/10
Jack’s presence keeps Rangers ticking all over the field. He is a committed player who showed great determination and energy as he made some really crucial interceptions when Maribor attacked in search of goals.
Scott Arfield – 7/10
Arfield showed how experience works on such European nights by staying steady in his position and offering great defensive cover. He was industrious, creative and was effective in midfield as Rangers completed their job.
Ovie Ejaria – 6/10
Starting on the right-hand side of central midfield, Ejaria was comfortable on the ball and always looked positive to make things happen. If he can bring consistency and more maturity to his game, Ejaria would be up for a bright future.
Daniel Candeias – 6/10
The Portuguese worked really hard and will be proud of his performance, although little of his efforts came to fruition.
Jamie Murphy – 5/10
Better than his last few games but Murphy needs to pull his socks up and deliver the performances that made Rangers sign him on a permanent basis this term.
Alfredo Morelos – 7/10
Morelos worked diligently and was a constant threat to the defenders around him, winning endless fouls.
Read More: Rangers fans must be excited about the prospect of watching this 25-year-old play for Gerrard – here’s why
Substitutes
Ryan Kent – 4/10
Kent replaced Ejaria and helped Rangers advance to the next round of Europa League qualifiers.
Ross McCrorie – 4/10
McCrorie was put on the field to nullify the Maribor attackers and he did his job very well.