Alfredo Morelos’ return to the first-team went goalless, but Rangers’ top scorer proved just how valuable he is to the side.
On another night, the 17-goal striker could’ve had a hat-trick. He had plenty of chances to score, but found himself frustrated by Adam Bogdan and poor finishing in his own right.
When the Colombian doesn’t score, he’s evidently more and more frustrated. His facial expressions and his howls when things don’t go his way are all part of the package that comes with Morelos.
But, despite that, his all-round performance tonight was up there with anyone else on the field.
The first 20 minutes were disappointing for Rangers fans. Hibs dominated the ball and it looked like Rangers may have been in for a long night. That was, however, until Morelos started dropping deep and putting the home side’s defence and midfield under pressure.
After that, Rangers bossed it. They may have conceded top spot yet again, but it was a positive performance against a side that looked a lot more dangerous against the Ibrox side last season.
Morelos was central to the game taking a swing
The game took a huge swing after the 20-minute mark as mentioned, and Morelos was central to everything good about Rangers thereafter. He’s proving to be so much more than just a goalscorer.
Ryan Porteous looked heroic gainst Celtic, but struggled with the physical threat of Morelos. The Rangers attacker constantly barged into the Hibs defence and made sure they were as uncomfortable in possession as possible.
Added to that, he set up plenty of opportunities for Rangers on the counter. It was these counter-attacks where Steven Gerrard’s men looked a lot more efficient tonight. It’s safe to say, however, that the Gers don’t look as convincing in that regard when Kyle Lafferty is featuring.
When Morelos plays, Rangers just have an added bite to them. He makes himself get noticed, and constantly harries opposition defenders to the point they feel uncomfortable on the ball. That’s what happened to Hibs tonight, as they constantly misplaced passes and gave the ball back to Gerrard’s men.
In the end, it was a disappointing evening for the club. Back down to second and failing to pick up a win for the third time in four matches.
Morelos, however, gave the fans a fresh reminder of what he’s all about heading into a crucial three games.