There was a palpable lack of anticipation around Ibrox last night.
Was it a case of over familiarity with the Europa League, was it ‘just’ Lyon or was it a bit of malaise with Rangers ongoing lukewarm form and a realisation that the French visitors would be a tough nut to crack?
All of the above are viable factors that contributed toward a stale atmosphere overall.
It was tepid stuff. The noise levels from the stands weren’t what we are used to, nor did the fervour of the Rangers supporters inspire the team – the same applied in reverse.
Quite simply, there was no spark.
Lyon were very worthy winners, they were comfortable and decent value for their margin of victory and most likely had further gears to go through, if required.
The bottom line is that they didn’t have to, such was Rangers blunt edge overall.
It was far from a whitewash and Peter Bosz’ side didn’t dominate or impose themselves the way other Euro foes have in recent years but at the same time, Steven Gerrard’s side were nowhere near the levels and the intensity of the last three seasons which have restored the Gers reputation on the continental stage.
The team has gone toe-to-toe with the likes of Porto, Benfica, Villarreal and even Braga – all of whom were more expansive and threatening in those contests, compared to the showing of Lyon last night.
OL were missing their talisman in Moussa Dembele for the trip to Glasgow – though his presence wasn’t exactly missed by the Rangers support for obvious reasons.
This coming Sunday, Lyon are set to travel to PSG and that tough encounter may well have had an impact on the load for last night.
In closing, Lyon are clearly a talented side and it is not being too generous to consider them a ‘Champions League level’ – their line-up speaks for itself. However, over the last couple of years especially, Rangers have faced tougher encounters and fared better – the outcome of Matchday 1 was more of an indication of where the two respective teams are in their season’s and output on the pitch.