Rangers returned to second in the Scottish Premiership after a comfortable 3-0 win over Livingston.
Goals from Ryan Jack, Ryan Kent and Alfredo Morelos wrapped up the three points in a dominant showing at the Tony Macaroni Arena.
Steven Gerrard’s side featured four changes from the midweek defeat by Kilmarnock as they looked to close the gap to leaders Celtic.
Rangers were on top for much of the early stages and both Ross McCrorie and Alfredo Morelos should’ve opened the scoring in the opening quarter of the game.
Gerrard’s side eventually took a deserved lead through Ryan Jack’s second goal in three games.
The midfielder’s long-range shot squirmed under Liam Kelly and into the net to the delight of the Gers fans.
After going in 1-0 up at the break, the Gers quickly made it 2-0 after the restart.
James Tavernier’s cross was flicked at goal by Morelos before eventually falling to Ryan Kent who blasted the ball home.
Rangers continued to push forward looking to extend their advantage and got their reward on 73 minutes through Morelos.
The Colombian rounded Kelly before rolling the ball home from an acute angle.
Steve Davis and Jermain Defoe were then given brief cameos as they look to force their way into the Rangers side.
Here are Rangers News’ Player Ratings from the defeat at Rugby Park:
Allan McGregor – 6
Goalkeeper appeared 20 years to the day since his first top-team appearance. Barely tested and won’t have many quieter afternoons. Pulled off a brilliant late save to maintain his clean sheet.
James Tavernier – 7
Captain worked hard down the right flank and was always looking to get forward. Some of Tavernier’s crossing was really threatening and it was his ball which eventually led to the second goal.
Niko Katic – 6
Croatian returned to the side ahead of Gareth McAuley. One or two shaky moments but looked comfortable. Grew into the game and will be hoping his performance leads to an extended run in the team.
Joe Worrall – 6
Remained in the side despite a howler against Kilmarnock. Didn’t show any signs of it affecting him although could have used the ball better at times.
Borna Barisic – 7
Replaced Andy Halliday and Croatian was a threat from set-pieces. Looked a little rusty but hopefully it’s the start of him cementing his place in the side.
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Ryan Jack – 7
Industrious afternoon for Jack without ever really excelling. Kept it simple in the middle of the park and looks much more comfortable with someone beside him. Got a little lucky with his goal but they all count.
Ross McCrorie – 8
Came in to the side for Steven Davis and should have opened the scoring after 10 minutes. Worked hard in the middle of the pitch to break up play and stop Livingston getting at the Gers’ defence.
Scott Arfield – 7
Canada international was an0ther who worked hard without really excelling. Done the simple stuff well but needed to impose himself on the game more.
Ryan Kent – 8
Pushed out wide after playing in a more central role against Killie. Drove at defenders throughout and was unlucky not to score just after the break when he met Tavernier’s cross. Got his goal just a minute later though when he fired the Gers into a 2-0 lead. Replaced by Steve Davis for the final 15 minutes.
Daniel Candeias – 8
Back in the starting XI after being a substitute at Rugby Park. Fantastic first-time pass found Morelos who should’ve scored the opener. Covered every bit of the pitch as he ran himself into the ground.
Alfredo Morelos – 7
Colombian striker was back as the lone striker and was unlucky not to make it 1-0 after 21 minutes from Candeias’ wonderful pass.Worked hard and eventually got his goal to make it 3-0. Replaced by Defoe after scoring.
Subs:
Steve Davis (6), Jermain Defoe (6), Andy Halliday (6)