Rangers survived something of a first-half onslaught to bounce back against Sparta Prague and almost take the Europa League spoils.
In a proverbial game of two halves, Rangers boss Philippe Clement’s comments about Sparta Prague’s quality were realised in the opening period of the Europa League clash.
The incoming Belgian manager was glowing about good friend Brian Priske in the run up to the game and the Danish coach has built a dynamic and fluid team in the Czech Republic.
But Rangers’ resistance – led in no small part by the magnificent Jack Butland – held firm until half-time and the Ibrox side had the best of the second period.
Dutch forward Sam Lammers – despite another frustrating performance – might’ve won it with a long-range effort which was saved by Sparta Prague keeper Peter Vindahl.
Brazilian striker Danilo also rattled the crossbar with a powerful strike in the closing stages with a draw – more so than the 0-0 scoreline – probably the fair result at the end of the game.
Rangers have huge Group C chance after Sparta Prague draw
Before the match Philippe Clement had claimed the nature of the Sparta Prague match would decide whether or not this was a good point for Rangers.
Objectively, with Rangers now primed to qualify from Group C should they defeat Sparta Prague and Aris Limassol on matchdays four and five at Ibrox, it’s hard to argue against it.
With Real Betis narrowly defeating Aris Limassol 1-0 in Cyprus, the Spanish outfit go top of the group on six points with Rangers and Sparta Prague tied on four and Aris on three.
With three games still to go the group is anyone’s but as Sparta Prague ready their return to Rangers that clash at Ibrox in a fortnight’s time is looking increasingly pivotal.
Win that game – and provided Real Betis do as expected and defeat Aris – and suddenly a gap widens between the top and bottom two.
If things go to plan in the coming months it might well also set up Rangers’ trip to Real Betis on matchday six as a straight shootout for who finishes top.
