It was a case of job done for Steven Gerrard’s Rangers on Thursday night, despite not producing a wholly convincing performance against Macedonian minnows FK Shkupi in UEFA Europa League qualifying.
Leading 2-0 heading into the second leg next week, the Gers should have scored more goals on the night, lacking the clinical edge they will need to find if they are to compete for major honours this season.
Fans weren’t massively excited about the overall performance but it was a chance to see some new signings in action, with six starting the match and the likes of Ovie Ejaria also coming off the bench.
Ejaria certainly caught the eye in the middle of the park and although his decision making could improve when in advanced areas, he showed he has the personality and ambition to be a success in the first team.
These fans were impressed by his first Rangers action, taking to Twitter to share their thoughts on his substitute appearance…
Ejaria was absolutely brilliant when he came on!
Took control of the middle of the pitch, dictated the tempo and always made the right decision. Can beat a man with ease as well.
Very impressed @Ejaria ????
— Coulibaly Cartel (@Pena_Cartel) July 12, 2018
Ejaria and Middelton done enough in 20 odd minutes to warrant a start on Tuesday I thought.
— ???????? Scottie C ???????? (@CurrieScott) July 12, 2018
Goldson rock solid again tonight, Flanagan played well although lacking fitness, ejaria was tidy when he came on some good touches.
— Stu (@boag22) July 12, 2018
Middleton ready and needs to be in mix this season. We still need to remember he’s young but playing in reserve league and being impact player will do him good. Ejaria looked decent too. Looking forward to seeing loan players get up to speed. Hopefully Sadiq can score headers ????
— Chris McLaughlin (@Chr1sMcLaughlin) July 12, 2018
Ejaria showed glimpses of what he can bring think he will be a good player for us. I still think we need a player with some silky touches & flair to play in behind the ST I would jump the gun for a ST yet depends what Sadiq is like
— Craig Smith (@csljm84) July 12, 2018
I’d moan about the performance if we were moan than 1 competitive game into the season, 1st goal was a sign of things to come, fast paced attacking move, Middleton and Ejaria looked promising. Test will be the away leg in the heat
— Allyyyyy.. (@A1872_) July 12, 2018
Ejaria has been fantastic since coming on. Reminds me of Pogba in some ways.
— . (@BaccaIieri) July 12, 2018
That Ejaria reminds me of Zelalem when on the ball good at doing quick changes of direction with the ball at his feet
— Bradley ???????? (@RfcBradley) July 12, 2018
What did you think of Ovie Ejaria’s competitive debut? Let us know in the comments below…