Not by the Hibs, the Hearts, or the Celtic, Rangers are proving with every hard-fought point that they shall not be moved this season.
Once again the Ibrox side didn’t start at their best – a line entering cliché levels this season – but found a way to in and secure a vital three points against 10-man Hibs.
Rangers came from 1-0 behind to defeat Jack Ross’ team 2-1 on the day with Kemar Roofe and Alfredo Morelos the heroes as Steven Gerrard exploded with emotion upon the final whistle.
Hibs had earned a deserved opener through the head of Kevin Nisbet – coincidentally linked to Rangers in the week – and early on nerves were palpable amongst the support.
Celtic had beaten Aberdeen 2-1 earlier in the day and had Rangers slipped up at Ibrox it would’ve given some very much-needed motivation to our Old Firm rivals.
But by edging out the result not only does it send a message out to Hibs – prior to the match the Easter Road side were unbeaten domestically – it also stifles that spurt of positivity coming out the eastend.
Hibs defender Ryan Porteous red card changes game as Rangers took control
Familiar groans might’ve been evident with Rangers 1-0 down, but Ryan Porteous’ red card challenge on Joe Aribo undeniably changed the tone of proceedings.
The decision has obviously drawn controversy and conspiracy but whilst some fans might bemoan the card, it was undeniably a forceful, high and out-of-control challenge.
But with the task set to break down the 10 men, the Ibrox XI stepped up to the plate and that purposeful, probing and determined spirit fans have been waiting to see showed cracks of light reappearing.
Rangers wanted this victory and even up to half-time were beginning to turn the screw on Hibs, something which continued into the second.
As the club continued to edge closer and closer to an equaliser, in came Kemar Roofe and following a stunning delivery by Nathan Patterson – in for captain James Tavernier and superb throughout – was nodded in by the Gers striker.
Whilst the equaliser was met with a raucous Rangers roar, from the moment Alfredo Morelos had the Gers in front the stadium erupted into a unified chorus of “We Shall Not be Moved”.
With this win and that goal – and with the pressure on – Rangers showed exactly why they’re Champions and why it’s going to take something huge to depose them this season.
Steven Gerrard has often cut a frustrated figure in the press this season but his reaction at the end symbolised the importance of this victory beyond just the three points.
The Rangers side, the Rangers manager and the Rangers fans were all sending a message to the rest of the league by full time.
Not by the Hibs, the Hearts or the Celtic, they shall not be moved.
Meanwhile, a former Rangers star has now netted his 10th goal of the season as he suffered late heartbreak with his new club.
