Not since Nacho Novo’s winner in the Scottish Cup Final against Falkirk in 2009 had Rangers enjoyed Scottish Cup success.
That all ended yesterday with a much deserved victory over Hearts for Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s team.
We had several cup woes in the Steven Gerrard reign then the Hibs League Cup semi-final couldn’t have came at a worse time, just as he Dutchman was about to take over late last year.
Then after midweek in Seville and the massive downer that followed, another question mark appeared only this time the right answer was found and it was one that Hearts couldn’t live with despite holding and frustrating Rangers, with extra time required.
Precedent
This has to be a form of normal service resumed.
Following the title success last season, a cup has now been delivered. It was long overdue but most importantly it has been done and with it, the Hampden hoodoo has been busted.
The semi-final victory over Celtic was huge but no prizes are handed out for winning semi-finals, as was the case in 2016. This time it was different and like great teams of the past, Rangers found a way to win.
That is a key ingredient found in all successful squads over the years at Ibrox – winning trophies is what is expected of Rangers teams, especially good ones like the current crop.
With the cycle of ‘Gerrard’s team’ coming to an end and GvB set to put his own stamp on the side this Summer, it will be something of a transition in the weeks to follow with ins and outs over the close season. Change and continuity will combine but that winning feeling has to be replicated. With another taste of it and the celebrations that followed the Scottish Cup success, those who remain simply have to seize the initiative and pick up from where they left off, next season.
The Rangers players continue their celebrations on the Hampden pitch 🍾🎉
Fantastic scenes for the players and fans 🔵 pic.twitter.com/1gWGTsZAo6
— Premier Sports (@PremierSportsTV) May 21, 2022