The Rangers Development Squad pulled off a stunning late comeback to defeat Partick Thistle in the Glasgow Cup at Firhill on Tuesday evening.
The game could scarcely have got off to a worse start, with the Gers falling behind with just 25 seconds on the clock.
Centre-back Kyle McClelland played the ball back to goalkeeper Kieran Wright, whose mishit clearance fell straight to Lewis Mansell, who promptly scored for the hosts.
Thereafter, Rangers had it all to do and although the likes of Kai Kennedy and Josh McPake were lively, no breakthrough was to materialise before half-time [Rangers.co.uk].
In fact, with 76 minutes played, the Gers still trailed and a defeat was looking increasingly likely.
That was until McPake took matters into his own hands.
After a James Maxwell cross was helped on by Joao Balde, the 18-year-old was in the right place at the right time and finished clinically beyond the Jags keeper.
The Gers were back level and sensing blood and in the 85th minute, McPake came up with the goods again.
Ben Williamson delivered a ball into the box and the Scotland U19 international fired home once again to complete the comeback.
An impressive showing of mental strength, then, from what was a young side, in overcoming Thistle.
It was good to see the likes of Kennedy, Maxwell and Lewis Mayo all get a game after their recent time spent with the first team, while there was also a late run out for Robbie Ure.
The U16 striker has been prolific at his age-group level this season and it’s good to see his efforts being rewarded with opportunities further up the Academy ladder.
