Match Stats: Osijek v Rangers – Striker Silences His Critics

The second test for new Rangers manager Steven Gerrard began tonight as we faced Osijek in the Qualifying Second Round of the 2018/19 Europa League competition.

Having taken an aggregate victory over FC Shkupi in the last round, victory over the upcoming two legs would see us face Chikhura or Maribor at the next stage and Gerrard will want to progress in the competition to lay down a marker for the coming Premiership campaign.

Most Rangers fans were hopeful that we’d see more of our summer signings in action, especially Umar Sadiq but he ultimately didn’t travel for the first leg affair which was a disappointment – especially for those fans who were less than happy to see Alfredo Morelos lead the line again.

He did, however, score the opening goal in the game after 18 minutes had been played and Rangers ultimately grabbed the win and the vital away goal.

That’s only part of the story though as the hosts dominated chances on the day, creating 17 in total compared to our 3 but it was a rearguard action and stout defending that had nervous fans pleased come the final whistle.

Plenty of improvement but a few more signs of the side coming together for those watching on so steps being taken in the right direction even if it wasn’t comprehensive or comfortable as people would like.

Onto Ibrox now and kill the tie off.