Rangers defeated Livingston on Wednesday night, to progress through to the League Cup semi-final.
However, it was far from plain sailing at the Tony Macaroni Arena.
The hosts had more than their fair share of chances and had their finishing been more up to scratch, things might have looked a lot different.
Major Rangers concern identified by BT Sport team
During and after the game, multiple members of the BT Sport team expressed doubts about the Rangers centre-backs.
“Filip Helander looked extremely uncomfortable there…that’s a major concern”, “it looked like a lack of pace from Helander,” said Stephen Craigan on commentary, after the Swede was caught out of position during the second half. Chris Sutton expressed his agreement.
In the studio, Ally McCoist criticised not just Helander, but Goldson as well.
“I’m very very concerned that the centre-backs aren’t handling the physical threat”, said the Rangers legend during his post-match analysis. ‘Steven will have to sit them down and give them a good talking to.”
Verdict
Sometimes, the likes of Craigan and Sutton can go way over the top when it comes to criticising the Gers.
Yet, last night, the defence did look extremely frail when put under pressure by Livi.
Single long balls were getting in behind Rangers and Lyndon Dykes showed Goldson and Helander a clean pair of heels on several occasions.
It was surprising to see, especially considering the promising start this partnership had made across the previous two matches. Yet, as McCoist asserted, the neither defender seemed able to cope with the physicality and direct approach adopted by their opposition.
It will be interesting to see if the pairing continues in the side on Saturday, when another physical marksman, in Sam Cosgrove, will likely lead the line for Aberdeen.
