Lee Wallace, Andy Halliday and Joe Garner scored the goals as Rangers cruised to a 3-0 win over Kilmarnock.
After the disappointing draw at Ibrox against St Johnstone on Wednesday, it was an important three points.
A bright start saw Rangers create numerous chances inside the first five minutes, which was only a sign of things to come.
Time and again throughout the game Lee Wallace raced forward to support the attack on the left side. That support culminated in the first goal after 16 minutes. Josh Windass received the ball in yards of space and slid the ball into the path of the captain, who placed a calm finish in the Kilmarnock net.
YouTube: REACTION | Lee Wallace | Rangers 3-0 Kilmarnock
Rangers got their rewards for a terrific start which brought several chances. Due to the Gers’ dominance of the game, nearly 15 minutes later it was 2-0.
Referee John Beaton pointed to the spot when Jason Holt was fouled in the box. Andy Halliday, who scored the penalty at Pittodrie last month, put the ball in the bottom corner.
After half-time there was an intent to score another. Joe Garner was the man who got it, putting the Gers three up on 47 minutes. A high clearance from Kilmarnock was caught on the edge of the box by Josh Windass. His first time shot wasn’t hit cleanly but it did fall to Garner who brushed the ball into the net.
YouTube: REACTION | Mark Warburton | Rangers 3-0 Kilmarnock
There was enough chances in the game for Rangers to rack up a fair amount against Kilmarnock. The three is good enough though, and sets up a challenge at Ross County next Sunday.
It was the performance that Rangers are capable of producing but consistency and adaptability need to join it.
Michael O’Halloran retained his place in the team from Wednesday night. He earned man of the match with his positive runs at the opposition defence and created problems. All that was really missing from his contribution was a goal.
Results in the fixtures involving Aberdeen, Hearts and St Johnstone allowed Rangers’ 3-0 win to lift them into second place.
Twitter: Great performance from the boys yesterday! 3 points and a clean sheet
https://t.co/ZLCBMQmrxH (@James_Tavernier)
My player ratings for the game are below:
Wes Foderingham – 6
Never had anything to do really.
James Tavernier – 7
Covered well at the back all day and didn’t allow too much space to open up. Missed some chances too.
Clint Hill – 7
Consistent now. Another steady performance from the 38-year-old who was in the wars a couple of times.
Rob Kiernan – 7
Has now formed a partnership with Hill. Distribution was okay and his defending quite solid.
Lee Wallace – 8
The captain was free to run up the left wing all day. Scored a fine goal.
Andy Halliday – 8
Good finish with the penalty and his all round work rate was very good.
Jason Holt – 7
Consistent with what he can bring to the team and our midfield is better with him in it.
Josh Windass – 8
Got around the park all day and never seemed to lose the ball. Had a few good efforts at goal as well, including the scuff which found Garner for 3-0.
Kenny Miller – 7
Will always put a shift in every time he plays. Wandered all over the pitch to get on the ball and missed a few chances when he got in good areas.
Michael O’Halloran – 9
Finally been given the chance in the team and he is taking it. His pace is terrific and he was good on the ball from start to finish.
Joe Garner – 8
Two in two for him now which can only be a good thing for his confidence. This was the best showing overall since he signed. Hopefully he can keep scoring from here.
Martyn Waghorn – 5
Had a great shot saved shortly after replacing Kenny Miller.
Joe Dodoo – 3
Didn’t do anything when he came on for Garner.
Matt Crooks – 4
Good to see him get a bit of game time after a long injury lay off. Did okay.
