There was an air of confidence about the Gers following December’s Old Firm win, and after a productive transfer window.
Yet, it wasn’t to be tonight.
Here are Rangers News’ Player Ratings from the defeat at Rugby Park.
Allan McGregor – 5
Despite the scoreline, McGregor had little to do. Kilmarnock registered just three shots on target across the 90 minutes. Could have reacted quicker in his attempt to stop Jordan Jones’ winner.
James Tavernier – 5
Quiet night for the skipper. The system required full-backs to provide the width, but he didn’t get forward regularly enough or provide decent service until the closing stages.
Gareth McAuley – 4
Looked shaky on his return from injury. Frequently pulled into wide areas, where his lack of pace was exposed. Picked up a first half booking.
Joe Worrall – 3
The Forest loanee had a nightmare. His glaring error was the turning point in the fixture, handing Killie an equaliser. Just before half-time, a dreadful attempted back pass almost saw him on the scoresheet for the hosts.
Andy Halliday – 5
Snuck under the radar after a Man of the Match Old Firm display. System required him to bomb forward which he didn’t manage often enough. Well struck shot led to opening goal.
Ryan Jack – 5
The Old Firm hero looked a touch rusty this evening. Gave away possession needlessly on several occasions.
Scott Arfield – 5
Started promisingly, and is most effective when looking to get forward. Showed glimpses, but faded out of the game in in the second half.
Steven Davis – 6
Was bright in the opening stages. Sprayed a few nice balls and linked up play well in the first period. However, lack of match fitness showed in latter stages. Subbed.
Ryan Kent – 7
Rangers’ strongest performer on the night. Looked lively from the off and his trickery bested several opposition players. Needs signed to a permanent deal asap.
Alfredo Morelos – 5
Usual bullish self, and looked hungry early on. Crashed a firm header off the post at 1-0, which could have put the game to bed. Needlessly booked for deliberate handball.
Jermain Defoe – 6
Brought in to score goals, it only took him 12 minutes to open his account. Some nice touches early on, but found it difficult to impact the game thereafter. Subbed.
Subs:
Daniel Candeias (5), Kyle Lafferty (N/A).
